As television networks increasingly seek to cultivate sprawling, interconnected universes, CBS has been at the forefront of this strategy, with successful franchises like NCIS and FBI demonstrating the power of brand extension. In this landscape, the S.W.A.T. universe presents a compelling, albeit complicated, opportunity for expansion, particularly through the character of Victor Tan. Over the course of S.W.A.T.’s eight-season run, Tan has undergone one of the most significant and relatable character arcs, transforming from a volatile officer prone to personal strife into a grounded, disciplined mentor. This evolution, highlighted prominently in recent episodes, positions him as the ideal candidate for a spinoff that could inject fresh narratives into the S.W.A.T. legacy, offering viewers a glimpse into different facets of elite law enforcement.

Tan’s journey has been marked by a consistent struggle for self-control, particularly in managing his anger and processing personal betrayals. Early in his tenure with S.W.A.T., he often found himself in precarious situations due to his quick temper, exemplified by incidents such as a bar fight that underscored his propensity for reactive behavior. This personal turmoil intensified when he discovered his wife’s infidelity, pushing him into a period of deep emotional distress that threatened to derail his career and personal stability. However, through dedicated effort, self-reflection, and the unwavering support of his team, Tan systematically worked to master his emotions. He learned to channel his intensity, transforming it from a liability into a formidable asset on the field. This arduous process of maturation has not only made him a more effective and reliable S.W.A.T. officer but also equipped him with a profound understanding of the challenges faced by those still grappling with their own demons. His ability to overcome significant personal hurdles makes his character arc one of the most inspiring and authentic within the series, laying a rich foundation for future storytelling.

One particularly promising avenue for a S.W.A.T. spinoff centers on a prequel series, delving into Victor Tan’s formative years within the S.W.A.T. Academy. This approach aligns perfectly with CBS’s current strategy of exploring origin stories, as seen with the success of NCIS: Origins and Young Sheldon. Such a series would offer a unique opportunity to witness Tan’s development firsthand, showcasing the raw, unrefined officer before he became the seasoned veteran. It could explore the intense physical and mental rigors of S.W.A.T. training, revealing how the academy molds individuals and forges the unbreakable bonds that define a team. Crucially, a prequel could shed light on the adversities Tan faced, particularly issues related to racial prejudice, a thematic thread hinted at but not fully explored in the main series. Witnessing his early struggles, his fight for acceptance, and the instances that ignited his fierce protective instincts would provide invaluable context to his later composure. This narrative depth would not only explain why Tan sometimes fought back but also powerfully underscore the extent of his personal and professional growth, making his eventual success all the more impactful.

Alternatively, a spinoff could focus on Tan’s present role as a lead trainer within the S.W.A.T. Academy. This storyline was compellingly introduced in Season 8, where he took charge of new recruits, creating an intriguing dynamic with Deacon Kay. Their contrasting training philosophies—Deacon’s experience-driven, meticulous approach versus Tan’s more direct, perhaps less conventional, but equally effective methods—provided rich narrative fodder. A dedicated series here would allow viewers to experience the demanding world of S.W.A.T. training through the eyes of a new generation of officers, facing challenges both internal and external. It would vividly portray the necessity of training out inherent bad habits and hot tempers, mirroring Tan’s own past struggles, and highlight the rigorous process of instilling the discipline, teamwork, and tactical precision essential for S.W.A.T. operations. This concept offers the dual benefit of continuing the franchise with familiar faces like Tan, while simultaneously introducing a fresh ensemble of characters and storylines, exploring contemporary issues relevant to new recruits in a high-stakes environment. It’s a natural evolution for a character who has learned so much about self-mastery.

CBS has demonstrated an undeniable appetite for expanding its successful series into multi-platform franchises. Beyond the behemoths of NCIS and FBI, the network has actively pursued universe-building with The Equalizer, and is currently charting course for extensions of Blue Bloods and Fire Country. This aggressive strategy underscores a clear corporate mandate: to leverage established brands, cultivate viewer loyalty, and ensure a robust pipeline of content. In this light, the idea of a S.W.A.T. franchise, particularly one anchored by a character as developed as Victor Tan, aligns perfectly with CBS’s long-term vision. The fact that the original S.W.A.T. series is concluding does not necessarily preclude a spinoff; as exemplified by the Blue Bloods ending prior to its Boston Blue spinoff announcement, networks are often forward-thinking in their franchise planning. With a dedicated fanbase eager for more tactical drama, the door remains conceptually open for S.W.A.T. to join the ranks of CBS’s extended universes, provided the underlying business complexities can be navigated.

However, the path to a S.W.A.T. spinoff, despite its narrative promise and alignment with CBS’s strategy, is fraught with significant financial and logistical complexities. Unlike many of CBS’s in-house productions, S.W.A.T. is produced by Sony Pictures Television and then licensed to CBS. This arrangement creates a crucial distinction: CBS does not wholly own the intellectual property or the entire profit stream from the show. Licensing agreements involve substantial fees, and any potential spinoff would necessitate fresh, intricate financial negotiations between CBS and Sony TV. These discussions would cover production costs, distribution rights, profit participation, and creative control – factors that can quickly become prohibitive. Had S.W.A.T. secured a ninth season, it might have provided a clearer runway for these discussions, but the series finale introduces a new layer of urgency and potential roadblocks. While the narrative idea for a Tan-led spinoff remains compelling and available, the practical reality is that such a venture hinges on the willingness and ability of both corporate giants to find mutually beneficial financial ground, a challenge that, sadly, often trumps creative merit in the television industry.

In essence, the character of Victor Tan offers a unique and compelling opportunity to breathe new life into the S.W.A.T. franchise, whether through a deep dive into his past or an exploration of his present role as a demanding mentor. His journey embodies the core themes of growth, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that define S.W.A.T. While the creative potential is undeniable, the complex financial relationship between CBS and Sony TV remains the most formidable obstacle. Should these corporate entities find a way to reconcile their business interests, a S.W.A.T. spinoff centered on Tan could satisfy a dedicated fanbase and carve out a distinctive niche in the expanding landscape of police procedural dramas, offering a fresh perspective on elite tactical law enforcement.