Update: CBS has made it official – “S.W.A.T.” has been renewed for a seventh season, marking a reversal of the network’s decision to cancel the show just three days ago.
CBS Entertainment president Amy Reisenbach and Sony Pictures Television Studios president Katherine Pope say in a joint statement: “We have listened to our viewers and their outpouring of passion for ‘S.W.A.T.’ and we have reached an agreement to renew it for a final season of 13 episodes to air during the 2023-2024 broadcast year.”
Original: Though unceremoniously canceled on Friday after six seasons, “S.W.A.T.” now reportedly could return for a seventh season on CBS according to Deadline.
The site indicates renewal conversations between CBS and Sony Pictures Television restarted shortly after the cancellation order came down – news of the axing drawing an immediate backlash from fans.
Talks have continued over the weekend into Monday and whilst the situation is still evolving, there apparently have been positive signs. If an agreement is made, it would reportedly be for a thirteen-episode seventh season.
The potential renewal could come at the cost of the Amanda Warren-led freshman cop drama “East New York” as renewal negotiations between CBS and Warner Bros. TV on that show have been “bumpy” and the shows may be competing for one slot.
Whilst canceled series finding a new home elsewhere is more routine these days, a network reversing its cancellation decision is still rather rare. Sony TV has experienced it now on several shows though including NBC’s “Timeless” and FOX’s “Breaking In”.
The cancellation came as “S.W.A.T.” had been enjoying a ratings resurgence and has seen rare double-digit linear viewership increase year-to-year. The sixth season finale airs May 19th.
CBS is slated to unveil its fall schedule on Wednesday.
