SWAT Exiles: Everything We Know About Shemar Moore’s Spin-Off Series

Despite facing multiple cancellations, the original “S.W.A.T.” series showed remarkable resilience and refused to be defeated. However, it seems that its story has reached its conclusion. But in Tinsel Town, when one project ends, another opportunity often arises. Recognizing that a revival for “S.W.A.T.” was unlikely, the creators decided to explore a spin-off instead.

The Season 8 finale of “S.W.A.T.” paved the way for a new spin-off series, which has officially come to fruition. Known as “S.W.A.T. Exiles,” this upcoming show is under the control of Sony Pictures Television for both ownership and distribution. This gives it potential to appear on any platform where Sony has streaming or distribution agreements. Essentially, it’s a continuation of the “Twenty Squad” storyline, at least for now. However, details about the cast, plot, and production team remain unknown at this point. This is all we know about “S.W.A.T. Exiles” for the time being.

Shemar Moore (And Hondo) will be back in Exiles

In the upcoming spin-off “S.W.A.T. Exiles,” it’s just Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson from Twenty Squad returning, portrayed by Shemar Moore. The actor reached out to his co-stars individually to clarify that they won’t be part of this spin-off due to plot requirements. This new show places Hondo in a fresh setting where he confronts new adversaries and faces novel challenges, minimizing connections with the original series as he can’t remain an outsider if he’s still in the same familiar surroundings.

I took to Instagram to explain why the producers made this move, using a football analogy. I likened myself to the team’s quarterback and said, ‘In any game, players get traded, but the team always relies on their quarterback, and that’s me.’ I couldn’t be prouder or more grateful for where I am now. No apologies needed! After giving my all for 31 years in this gaming world, I can’t wait to see what lies ahead.

As a devoted fan, I can’t hide my joy that he’ll continue playing Hondo, but there seems to be some tension simmering beneath the surface. Moore shared the good news with some of his co-stars, according to Deadline, but unfortunately, not everyone on the team was informed in advance. Even those at CBS learned about it when the official announcement was made. The lack of communication from Sony was described as “inappropriate” and a “slight” by one of the talent representatives involved.

Hondo will be training some young new recruits

In “S.W.A.T. Exiles,” we find Hondo in a completely different phase of his life. The Twenty Squad no longer exists, and Hondo finds himself unwillingly retired until the government summons him for duty due to a failed mission. His new role? Molding a fresh team of recruits and trainees into an elite S.W.A.T. unit. If he fails, the entire S.W.A.T. division will be dismantled forever – something Hondo can’t bear to let happen.

The disparity in values between generations will pose a significant challenge for Hondo, as he strives to preserve the S.W.A.T. division. However, his new recruits don’t adhere to the traditional rules he’s accustomed to. In essence, he is an old-timer, whereas they are not. To reach his objective, Hondo might need to display a more understanding and flexible approach. Although Hondo’s team members have yet to be officially announced (Deadline suggests that Sony intends to work with emerging talents), the show has already secured an accomplished showrunner.

Jason Ning is the showrunner of S.W.A.T. Exiles

The showrunner for “S.W.A.T. Exiles” has been confirmed, and it’s Jason Ning, a veteran in TV production. He’ll be overseeing the new series, having previously worked on shows like “The Expanse,” “Killer Women,” “Perception,” “Mrs. Davis,” “Lucifer,” and “The Brothers Sun.” Additionally, he will produce the spin-off of “S.W.A.T.” as well.

Ning’s professional foundation lies in the field of writing. He initially wrote scripts for the TV show “Crossing Jordan,” and subsequently worked on various productions such as “Burn Notice,” the reboot of “90210,” and “The Mysteries of Laura.” His portfolio also includes episodes from “Perception,” “The Expanse,” and “Lucifer.” In 2025, Ning’s schedule will be packed not only with his responsibilities for “Exiles,” but also with the task of writing and co-producing the upcoming “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” series. He was also involved in its development for television. Both these series are part of Ning’s extended contract with Sony Pictures Television, which he recently reaffirmed.

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2025-05-23 19:30