S.W.A.T. Midseason Premiere Plot Unveiled After CBS Lineup Change

S.W.A.T. is set to make a powerful comeback with a plot that promises to captivate viewers as it takes over the time slot previously occupied by Blue Bloods. The midseason premiere is scheduled for January 31 at 10 p.m. ET on CBS, and it’s titled “Open Season.” According to the episode synopsis, chaos ensues when Hondo discovers there’s a staggering $1 million bounty on his life. This prompts his elite team, 20-Squad, to dive deep into the mystery surrounding a vengeful adversary from Hondo’s past. The episode will also see tensions rise between Deacon and Tan as they clash over changes to the SWAT academy, with Jay Harrington stepping behind the camera to direct.

Shemar Moore returns to the screen as Sergeant II Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson Jr. in a series that has survived cancellation threats more than once. Currently, the show is in its eighth season, but CBS has yet to confirm a ninth season. As Blue Bloods fans brace themselves for this transition, it’s worth remembering that the beloved police procedural drama had a remarkable 14-season run before ending its story with a dramatic finale on December 13, 2024.

Tom Selleck, who has played a pivotal role in Blue Bloods, expressed his discontent over the cancellation after more than a decade of dominating Friday nights. In an interview, he shared his feelings of frustration, noting, “It’s hard to believe that a show so successful would be programmed into a lackluster time slot.” He reminisced about his last days on set, underscoring how challenging it has been to come to terms with the show’s conclusion.

While there’s been no official word on a Blue Bloods spinoff, the idea has lingered in discussions among fans and cast members alike. Several concepts have been suggested, sparking excitement over potential new storylines and character arcs. Donnie Wahlberg, a key player in the original series, shared his hopes for any potential spinoff, emphasizing that as long as it captures the essence of Blue Bloods and centers around family, he’s onboard.

As S.W.A.T. gears up to fill the void left by Blue Bloods, fans are left to wonder about the future of their favorite officers and the stories that may or may not continue. The excitement of new beginnings and unfinished stories hangs in the air as viewers anticipate what lies ahead.