CBS’sS.W.A.T.is set to deliver some high-stakes drama in its upcoming midseason premiere, and the newly revealed synopsis promises danger for team leader Hondo Harrelson. Based on the 1975 television series and its 2003 film adaptation,S.W.A.T.has depicted gripping actionand crime since its debut in 2017. Led by Shemar Moore as Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, the police procedural drama follows the challenges of LAPD’s Special Weapons and Tactics (S.W.A.T.) unit, dubbed the 20-Squad, navigating high-pressure situations while striving to maintain trust between law enforcement and the community.
Now,TVLinehas releaseda synopsis forS.W.A.T.’s midseason return.The episode, titled “Open Season,” is set to premiere on Friday, January 31, at 10pm ET. The plot centers on Hondo as 20-Squad is forced to confront a mysterious enemy from his past seeking revenge. Notably,S.W.A.T.cast member Jay Harrington, who plays Deacon Kay, will direct the episode. Read the full synopsis below:
When Hondo learnsthere’s a $1 million bounty on his head, 20-Squad must race to uncover the mysterious enemy from Hondo’s past who’s intent on revenge. Also, Deacon and Tan butt heads over Tan’s changes to SWAT academy. Cast member Jay Harrington directs.
What S.W.A.T.’s Midseason Premiere Means
High-Stakes Drama And Team Tensions Shake Things Up
The midseason premiere ofS.W.A.T.dives back into Hondo’s history as the team’s unyielding camaraderie meets another life-or-death situation—this time involving their beloved and loyal leader. A $1 million bounty not only places Hondo’s life in peril but alsoforces the squad to dig into their Sergeant’spast to uncover the source of the threat, which could prove to be the biggest obstacle they’ve had to face so far. This storyline promises to shed light on previously unseen aspects of Hondo’s history, perhaps to his former days as a Marine, potentially introducing new dimensions to his leadership and resilience.
Every Main Character & Actor Who Left S.W.A.T (& Why)
Over the years, several main characters have left S.W.A.T., but the reasons have varied. The hit procedural has featured a rotating ensemble cast.
Moreover, Deacon and Tan’s conflict over SWAT academy changes reflectsongoing tensions between traditional and modern policing strategiesas the squad’s veteran second in command and the younger officer go head-to-head—a theme that has resonated throughout the series since its inception. Furthermore,S.W.A.T.’s move from the Friday night 8pm slot to 10pm positions the show as a potential anchor for CBS’s lineup followingBlue Bloods’ conclusion. While CBS has canceled the series twice before, this shift could help grow its Friday night momentum and potentially bringS.W.A.T.season 9further out of limbo.
Our Take On S.W.A.T. Season 8’s Midseason Return
S.W.A.T.has always balanced explosive action with heartfelt character moments, and the midseason premiere looks poised to deliver on both fronts. Hondo’s peril taps into the series' strength for high-stakes drama, ensuringviewers will be on the edge of their seats. Meanwhile, the Deacon-Tan subplot teases intriguing conflicts that could shake up the team’s dynamic. With its move to a new timeslot,S.W.A.T.faces a challenge, but also an opportunity to solidify its place as a Friday night staple. If the midseason premiere’s thrilling premise is any indication, the show is more than ready to take the baton fromBlue Bloods.
S.W.A.T.
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S.W.A.T. (2017): This crime-action series follows a locally born S.W.A.T. lieutenant in Los Angeles who must navigate his loyalties between the streets and his duty to commanding a highly-trained unit responsible for resolving challenging crimes. The series explores themes of allegiance, justice, and responsibility within law enforcement.
