As the acclaimed S.W.A.T. series prepares to conclude its impactful run, anticipation builds not only for the resolution of ongoing storylines but also for the possibility of seeing beloved characters from the past make a final appearance. The heart of S.W.A.T. has always been its ensemble, a family forged under immense pressure, and the finale offers a unique opportunity to bring back key figures who shaped the team’s journey and left an indelible mark on both their colleagues and the audience. Their return would not merely be fan service, but a meaningful way to provide closure, celebrate growth, and underscore the enduring bonds that define the 20-Squad.

One of the most anticipated returns is that of Jim Street. His journey has been a central narrative thread, evolving from a reckless but talented rookie struggling with authority into a disciplined and highly respected officer. The last we saw of Street, his dedication and potential were recognized with a well-deserved promotion to run his former Long Beach division. His absence for the initial episodes of S.W.A.T. season seven was keenly felt, with Hondo explaining his pivotal role in assisting other units, culminating in a memorable crossover where the two units collaborated. This promotion, while a testament to his growth, also pulled him away from the familiar dynamic of the 20-Squad. A return for the series finale isn’t just about celebrating his success; it’s about illustrating the full circle of his development. Imagine Street, now a seasoned leader in his own right, perhaps arriving to assist his old team on a complex, high-stakes case, bringing his honed skills and strategic insight to bear. This appearance could showcase how his leadership style has matured, offering a poignant reflection on how far he’s come since Hondo first took him under his wing. Such a return would not only provide a powerful moment of camaraderie but also reinforce the idea that the S.W.A.T. family extends beyond the walls of the Los Angeles headquarters, highlighting the ripple effect of their mentorship and influence.

The return of Jim Street would naturally pave the way for a crucial appearance by Christina “Chris” Alonso. Their slow-burn romance, affectionately dubbed “Stris” by fans, was one of the series’ most compelling personal storylines, culminating in their long-awaited commitment to each other. Chris’s departure from the team was driven by a powerful desire to do more, to make a direct impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals. She chose to leave the tactical unit to run a safe house for immigrant women, continuing the vital work pioneered by Mama Pina. This was a decision that exemplified her unwavering compassion and moral compass, showcasing her growth beyond the uniform. While Street remained on the show for a time, offering positive updates about their relationship, the full scope of their life together, particularly their wedding, has been left to the imagination. The series finale presents the ideal setting for the long-awaited Stris wedding, a culmination of years of romantic tension, personal struggles, and unwavering support. This event would not only provide a joyous and emotional crescendo for their individual arcs but also serve as a beacon of hope and happiness amidst the intensity of S.W.A.T. It would be a moment for the entire team to reunite, celebrate, and reflect on the enduring power of love and chosen family. Beyond the wedding, seeing Chris in her element at the safe house, perhaps collaborating with the team on a case that directly impacts the women she protects, would beautifully illustrate how her commitment to service evolved beyond the tactical realm, proving that her impact is just as profound, if not more so, in her chosen path.

Another deeply missed figure whose return would carry significant emotional weight is Dominique Luca. As one of the veteran members, Luca was the steadfast driver of Black Betty and a source of invaluable knowledge, often balanced with his unique brand of comedic relief. His departure in S.W.A.T. season seven was a tragedy, a shocking turn of events that saw him shot off-duty by robbers. Despite initially pulling through, he suffered permanent shoulder damage, forcing his painful and premature retirement from S.W.A.T. It was not the heroic sendoff fans envisioned for a character who had given so much to the team. While he received a touching farewell, his story felt incomplete. A finale appearance for Luca isn’t just about checking in; it’s about celebrating his resilience and finding out how his post-S.W.A.T. life has flourished, specifically with his burgeoning food truck business. Imagine Luca, no longer on active duty but thriving in his entrepreneurial endeavor, perhaps catering a team event or even inadvertently providing a crucial piece of information for a case due to his new network. This scenario could allow him to demonstrate his continued connection to the team, highlighting that while his uniform may be gone, his S.W.A.T. family bonds remain unbreakable. It would be a powerful testament to finding new purpose after a devastating career-ending injury, offering a message of hope and adaptation that resonates with the show’s overarching themes of perseverance.

The return of Captain Jessica Cortez would bridge the show’s foundational years with its conclusion. As the formidable leader of the 20-Squad during the first two seasons, Cortez brought a compelling dynamic to the team, especially through her secret, complex relationship with Hondo. Their eventual decision to prioritize their careers and put their personal relationship on hold demonstrated a maturity and professionalism that was uncommon and compelling. Her departure to take a position with the FBI marked a significant shift in the show’s command structure. A finale involving Cortez could be incredibly impactful, offering a full-circle moment for both her and Hondo. The S.W.A.T. season finale would be an excellent time for the 20-Squad to work alongside the FBI, bringing Cortez back into their orbit as a high-ranking agent. This would not only allow viewers to witness her career progression within the federal agency but also offer a chance for her to see how Hondo has settled into his role as a father and family man – a future she likely never envisioned for him during their intense working relationship. Her return could also provide a moment of reflection on their past, emphasizing their mutual respect and shared history without necessarily rekindling romance, instead focusing on their evolved professional and personal lives. It would underscore the idea that while paths diverge, the impact of significant relationships endures, shaping who they become.

Finally, while her tenure on the show was relatively brief, a return from Piper Lynch could provide unexpected yet satisfying closure. As the lieutenant who sometimes clashed with both Hondo and Hicks due to differing philosophies or approaches, Lynch added a layer of bureaucratic tension and a fresh perspective to the team’s operations. Her dynamic with the seasoned S.W.A.T. members often highlighted the evolving nature of law enforcement and the challenges of integrating new strategies. The series finale offers a chance to reconcile any past frictions and illustrate personal growth. Rather than a direct involvement in a tactical operation, Lynch’s return could be a symbolic one. Perhaps she has achieved a significant promotion within the department or a related agency and returns to present 20-Squad with a commendation or award for their extraordinary service. This scenario would provide a moment of recognition and respect, signaling that any previous disagreements were professional in nature and ultimately dissolved in the face of shared dedication to public service. It would be a subtle yet powerful way to ensure that all characters who played a significant role, even those with more challenging relationships, receive a moment of acknowledgment and demonstrate that the bonds formed within the S.W.A.T. universe, whether through direct camaraderie or professional friction, ultimately contribute to a larger, cohesive narrative of duty and honor.

Ultimately, the strength of S.W.A.T. lies in its portrayal of a dedicated team and the personal sacrifices they make. Bringing back these integral characters for the finale would not only reward long-time viewers with nostalgic and emotional reunions but also enrich the narrative by demonstrating the enduring impact of their relationships and individual journeys. It would be a poignant and fitting farewell, ensuring that the legacy of the 20-Squad is remembered through the complete tapestry of its remarkable members.