S.W.A.T. Exiles: Shemar Moore Returns With Jay Harrington & Patrick St. Esprit in New Spinoff

Just days after the series finale of S.W.A.T., fans received thrilling news: the franchise is not over yet. Sony Pictures Television has greenlit a spinoff titled S.W.A.T. Exiles, with Shemar Moore returning as Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson. Even better, two beloved original cast members — Jay Harrington and Patrick St. Esprit — are set to appear in the pilot episode, giving the new series strong ties to its roots.

Here’s everything we know so far about S.W.A.T. Exiles, from cast details to plot, production, and what fans can expect next.

What Is S.W.A.T. Exiles About?

According to the official logline, the spinoff introduces a new chapter in Hondo’s career. After a high-profile mission goes wrong, Hondo is pulled out of forced retirement to lead an experimental SWAT team.

This squad is unlike the highly trained veterans fans are used to — it’s made up of untested, unpredictable recruits. Hondo must train and guide them, balancing clashing personalities and bridging a generational divide, all while defending Los Angeles and preserving the legacy of the program that shaped him.

The story promises a mix of high-octane action and emotional drama, true to the franchise’s DNA.

Returning Cast Members

 

While Shemar Moore will once again lead the series as Hondo, two familiar faces from the original show are set to return in the pilot:

• Jay Harrington as Sergeant David “Deacon” Kay
• Patrick St. Esprit as Commander Robert Hicks

Both starred alongside Moore throughout all eight seasons of S.W.A.T. on CBS, and their inclusion gives fans continuity as the franchise moves in a new direction.

It remains unconfirmed whether other fan favorites like Tan (David Lim), Powell (Anna Enger Ritch), Alfaro (Niko Pepaj), or Gamble (Annie Ilonzeh) will reprise their roles.

Shemar Moore on Keeping the Franchise Alive

In a statement celebrating the new series, Moore shared his excitement:

“My eight seasons on S.W.A.T. have been epic and memorable. We entertained the world, defied the odds, came back from the dead twice, and continued to woo fans and families worldwide. I am excited for this next generation and iteration of S.W.A.T. with Sony. Katherine Pope, Neal H. Moritz, Jason Ning, and I will keep the franchise, thrill ride action, heartfelt drama, and storytelling of S.W.A.T. alive. WE DON’T LOSE!!!! ROLL SWAT!!!”

His words highlight the passion behind the project and the commitment to maintaining the action-packed and heartfelt storytelling that fans have loved for years.

Who Is Behind the Scenes?

The spinoff will be showrun by Jason Ning, who also serves as an executive producer. He is joined by long-time producers Neal H. Moritz and Pavun Shetty of Original Film, alongside Shemar Moore himself, James Scura, and Jon Cowan.

Sony Pictures Television will produce and distribute the series globally, with a 10-episode order already confirmed.

Production and Release Details

Production on S.W.A.T. Exiles is set to begin later this September in Los Angeles. However, neither a release date nor a network/streaming platform has been announced yet. Sony is reportedly exploring the right home for the series, which could be a broadcast partner like CBS or a streaming platform.

Given typical TV production cycles, fans might expect a premiere in late 2026 if filming stays on schedule.

How Did the Original S.W.A.T. End?

The original series concluded its eight-season run on CBS with Hondo still leading 20-Squad. The finale ended not with a dramatic death or farewell, but with the team heading out on another call — a fitting close that left the door open for future stories.

Exiles builds directly on that legacy, ensuring Hondo’s story continues even as he mentors a new generation of officers.

FAQs About S.W.A.T. Exiles

1. What is S.W.A.T. Exiles about?

The spinoff follows Hondo as he returns from forced retirement to lead an experimental SWAT team made up of untested recruits.

2. Who is returning from the original cast?

Shemar Moore (Hondo) is back, along with Jay Harrington (Deacon) and Patrick St. Esprit (Hicks) in the pilot.

3. How many episodes will the spinoff have?

Sony confirmed a 10-episode order for the first season.

4. When will S.W.A.T. Exiles be released?

No release date has been set, but production begins in September 2025. A 2026 premiere is most likely.

5. Where will the series air?

Sony has not yet confirmed a network or streaming home for the show.

Conclusion: A New Era for the S.W.A.T. Franchise

With S.W.A.T. Exiles, Shemar Moore and his team are proving that this franchise still has plenty of stories to tell. Blending nostalgia with fresh energy, the spinoff offers fans a chance to revisit beloved characters while meeting an entirely new squad.

The return of Jay Harrington and Patrick St. Esprit ensures continuity, while the premise of training a new generation promises high-stakes drama and fresh dynamics. Fans of the original series can expect the same mix of intense action, heartfelt moments, and team camaraderie — just with a new twist.

Are you excited for S.W.A.T. Exiles and the return of Shemar Moore as Hondo? Which original characters do you hope to see appear in the spinoff? Share your thoughts in the comments and follow all the latest updates at InvestRecords.com!