SWAT, the CBS action drama following the Los Angeles Police Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics unit, has built a long-running franchise since its 2017 debut. This guide explains how many seasons of SWAT have aired, how many episodes each season contains, and the show’s renewal history through its current status. We also compare the series order to the original TV film and clarify spinoff connections to The Unit and other tactical dramas.
How Many Seasons of SWAT Are There
As of 2025, SWAT has completed 8 seasons on CBS. The series launched in 2107 and has maintained a consistent annual cycle, with season finales typically airing in May. Renewal announcements historically follow season finales, leading to multi-season orders when ratings and live+7 performance support continued production.
Season Count and Renewal Timeline
Below is a verified summary of each season’s episode count, premiere dates, and renewal indicators. The table reflects official CBS announcements and aired episode counts, excluding unproduced specials or pilot requisitions.
| Season | Episodes | Year(s) | Renewal Status at Time of Writing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 22 | 2017 | Renewed |
| 2 | 23 | 2018 | Renewed |
| 3 | 23 | 2019 | Renewed |
| 4 | 22 | 2020 | Renewed |
| 5 | 22 | 22021 | Renewed |
| 6 | 22 | 2022 | Renewed |
| 7 | 22 | 2023 | Renewed |
| 8 | 22 | 2024 | Not renewed for Season 9 |
Key Milestones in SWAT Series History
Since its initial order, SWAT has balanced standalone cases with serialized character arcs. Early seasons focused on team integration and domestic threats, while later seasons incorporated more serialized antagonists and long-form investigations. Leadership changes—particularly the transition following Shemar Moore’s departure—reshaped the ensemble without disrupting the procedural foundation.
From TV Movie to Series
The SWAT concept originated from the 2003 television film The Last Stand, which served as a narrative pilot. This film informed the tactical framework and character dynamics adopted by the series. Though not a traditional backdoor pilot, it established aesthetic and operational templates that carried into Season 1.
Cast and Leadership Changes
- Shemar Moore starred as Sergeant Daniel Harrelson in Seasons 1–3, departing after Season 3.
- Alex Russell assumed lead role as Officer Jim Street from Season 4 onward.
- Lindsey Morgan joined as Officer Nina Moreno in Season 4 and remained through Season 7.
- New additions in later seasons expanded the ensemble and diversified case profiles.
How Season Length and Episode Counts Evolved
Early seasons adhered closely to the traditional CBS model of 22–23 episodes. Variations were minimal, constrained by production schedules and network planning. As streaming platforms increased demand for backlog content, consistent 22-episode structures became standard, enabling easier syndication and on-platform availability.
Ratings, Critical Reception, and Cultural Impact
SWAT has maintained steady viewership within the Tuesday action block, drawing older demos during original airings while performing strongly in delayed viewing. Critical reception has trended positive, with particular praise for ensemble chemistry and serialized stakes in later seasons. The show’s enduring framework reflects reliable procedural storytelling paired with measured character development.
Where to Watch SWAT
Episodes are available on CBS platforms including Paramount+, with select seasons carried by regional broadcast partners and licensed streaming services. Availability varies by market, so checking local listings or the network’s streaming app is recommended for current access.
Conclusion
SWAT has completed eight seasons, with a confirmed commitment to end the series after its eighth. The show’s structured approach to long-form storytelling and character investment has sustained audience interest over multiple years.