CBS Cancels “S.W.A.T.,” “FBI: Most Wanted,” and “FBI: International” -

In a surprising turn of events, CBS has decided to part ways with three of its most popular crime dramas: S.W.A.T., FBI: Most Wanted, and FBI: International. The network, known for its powerhouse lineup of procedural dramas, is making some big changes to its primetime schedule.

Fans of these long-running series have taken to social media, expressing shock and disappointment, especially given their strong viewership numbers. But what’s really behind these cancellations? And is CBS already planning a fresh lineup to take their place? Let’s break it all down.

The End of an Era: “S.W.A.T.” Canceled After Eight Seasons

After eight action-packed seasons, CBS has pulled the plug on S.W.A.T.—again.

Yes, you read that right. This is actually the third time the network has canceled the show, only to revive it due to overwhelming fan demand. Unfortunately, this time, the decision seems final.

The series, led by Shemar Moore as Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, has been a staple of CBS’s primetime lineup since its debut in 2017. Known for its high-energy action, social commentary, and a loyal fanbase, S.W.A.T. managed to survive previous cancellations. But with networks constantly reshuffling to adapt to changing audience habits—especially with streaming services competing for attention—the show’s fate was ultimately sealed.

Showrunner Andrew Dettmann called the cancellation “heartbreaking,” and Shemar Moore shared a heartfelt message with fans, thanking them for their unwavering support.

“We defied the odds before, but this time it looks like we won’t be coming back. I’m so grateful for this journey,” Moore said in a recent interview.

CBS Also Cuts Two “FBI” Spinoffs

Alongside S.W.A.T., CBS has made another surprising move: canceling two of its FBI franchise series—FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International.

FBI: Most Wanted (which debuted in 2020) follows a fugitive task force tracking down the country’s most dangerous criminals. The show will officially conclude after its sixth season.

FBI: International (which premiered in 2021) focused on a team operating globally to protect American citizens. It will end after its fourth season.

With FBI being such a successful brand for CBS, many fans are wondering why the network is suddenly axing these spinoffs. The original FBI series, however, remains safe—at least for now.

What’s Next? A New CBS Crime Drama is in the Works

CBS may be clearing out some of its biggest procedural dramas, but it’s not stepping away from the genre entirely. In fact, the network is developing a new spinoff, tentatively titled “FBI: CIA.”

This fresh take on the FBI universe will follow the high-stakes partnership between an FBI agent and a CIA operative as they work together to combat domestic terrorism. The series is already in pre-production, with casting underway. If everything stays on track, it’s expected to debut in the 2025-2026 season.

While some fans are excited about the new concept, others feel that CBS is moving too quickly to replace beloved shows.

Why is CBS Making These Drastic Changes?

So, why would CBS cancel three successful shows in one sweep? A few key factors could be at play:

Budget Cuts & Production Costs

Procedural dramas, especially ones running for multiple seasons, tend to have high production costs. CBS may be reallocating its budget to fresh new projects.

Adapting to Changing Viewership Habits

The rise of streaming platforms has changed how audiences consume TV. Traditional broadcast networks like CBS need to make strategic changes to keep up.

Making Room for New Content

CBS is known for regularly reshuffling its lineup. By cutting some long-running shows, the network is paving the way for new series and concepts.

Fan Reactions: Outrage, Disappointment & Hope

The cancellation news has sparked a major reaction across social media. Many S.W.A.T. fans are particularly upset, given the show’s history of overcoming cancellations.

Some viewers feel that CBS is cutting successful series too soon, while others are hopeful that a new network or streaming service might pick up these shows in the future. While that remains uncertain, one thing is clear—CBS is taking big risks with these changes.

For now, fans can only wait and see if the network’s gamble will pay off. In the meantime, there’s still time to catch the final seasons of S.W.A.T., FBI: Most Wanted, and FBI: International before they officially sign off.

CBS’s decision to cancel three favourite crime dramas marks a significant shift in its programming strategy. While S.W.A.T., FBI: Most Wanted, and FBI: International will be missed, the upcoming FBI: CIA could bring something fresh to the table.

Whether fans will embrace these changes—or push back against them—remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the television landscape is evolving, and networks must constantly adapt to keep up.