The landscape of long-running television dramas often sees beloved characters come and go, but few departures ignite as much frustration and disappointment among fans as the unceremonious exit of Commander Robert Hicks from S.W.A.T. In an abrupt and politically charged move in Season 8, Episode 18, the steadfast leader, portrayed by Patrick St. Esprit, was effectively forced into resignation, robbing both the character and the audience of a deserved, dignified farewell as the series approaches its anticipated conclusion.

Commander Robert Hicks has been a foundational pillar of S.W.A.T. since its inception, one of only four remaining original main cast members. Beyond his official title, Hicks embodied the institutional memory and a crucial moral compass for the LAPD’s elite tactical unit. He was more than just Hondo’s (Shemar Moore) superior; he was a mentor, a confidant, and often, the silent advocate who shielded 20-Squad from the bureaucratic red tape and political maneuvering that constantly threatened their operations. Hicks’ gruff exterior often belied a deep-seated care for his team, especially Hondo and Deacon (Jay Harrington), whom he viewed not just as subordinates, but as extensions of his own commitment to justice. His decades of service, marked by unwavering dedication and personal sacrifices, established him as a figure of unimpeachable integrity within the department, a true veteran who understood the streets as intimately as he navigated the politics of command. To see such a character pushed aside in such a manner felt like a betrayal of his legacy.

The precipitating events of Hicks’ departure unfolded with a calculated coldness that immediately raised alarms within 20-Squad. The first ominous sign emerged when Deacon, ever perceptive to the subtle shifts within the department, discovered a list circulating of potential new commanders to lead the S.W.A.T. team. This intelligence, shared with Hondo, instantly sparked concern. Hondo, recognizing the implications for his long-time boss and mentor, wasted no time in confronting Hicks with the information. Initially, Hicks appeared unperturbed, perhaps even dismissive of the threat. His confidence stemmed from a lifetime of service and what he perceived as unshakeable support from the department’s top brass, including the Chief himself, with whom he had recently shared a seemingly convivial round of golf. This casual game, intended as a symbol of professional camaraderie and mutual respect, turned out to be a cruel illusion, highlighting the superficiality of political alliances when true power is at stake.

The architect of Hicks’ ousting was none other than Deputy Chief Bennett, a character often portrayed as career-driven and far more interested in bureaucratic control and public relations than the nuanced realities of frontline policing. Bennett’s machinations represent a recurring theme in S.W.A.T.: the constant struggle between the pragmatic, sometimes rule-bending efforts of officers striving for justice on the streets and the more rigid, politically motivated decisions made in the higher echelons of power. Bennett’s relentless pressure and subtle manipulation of the Chief ultimately swayed the balance against Hicks. The irony of Hicks believing he had the Chief’s unwavering support, only to discover it was easily undermined by Bennett’s agenda, speaks volumes about the cutthroat nature of departmental politics. It underscores the infuriating reality that loyalty and long-standing service can be quickly discarded in favor of expediency or a perceived need for a “fresh” direction, regardless of the cost to morale or institutional knowledge.

The reaction from Hondo and the rest of 20-Squad was immediate and visceral. Hondo, in particular, was incandescent with anger and frustration. His relationship with Hicks ran deeper than mere professional respect; Hicks had been a constant source of support, a sounding board, and an unwavering advocate for Hondo’s often unconventional methods. To witness Hicks, a man of such integrity and dedication, being forced out ignominiously was not just a professional slight but a personal affront. The entire squad felt the sting of this decision, viewing it as a profound betrayal of one of their own. Their loyalty to Hicks was absolute, and his forced departure created a palpable vacuum of trust and leadership within the department, making the team question the very institution they had pledged their lives to uphold. This incident served to further solidify the squad’s bond, but also deepened their disillusionment with the political games played by their superiors.

The core of the audience’s disappointment lies in the missed opportunity for a proper, celebratory farewell for a character as pivotal as Hicks. As an original member of the team, approaching retirement age and having even considered it in the past, Hicks deserved to depart on his own terms, with a moment of recognition and respect that honored his extensive career. A truly deserved send-off could have involved a grand retirement ceremony, a final heroic mission where he passed the torch, or a deliberate, reflective decision to step down, allowing for a natural, emotional arc. Instead, the character was denied this closure, exiting in a manner that felt more like a political expulsion than a well-earned retirement. This is particularly jarring given that S.W.A.T. itself is slated to conclude its run; the expectation for a series finale is to provide meaningful closure for all core characters, something Hicks was tragically denied. The decision to deny him a celebratory goodbye, especially when a “S.W.A.T. season 9 isn’t happening” (at the time the article was written, though the show later received a final renewal), feels like a significant narrative misstep, cheating both the character and the dedicated fanbase out of a moment of collective appreciation.

Hondo’s declared disinterest in immediately stepping into the commander role, despite his leadership capabilities, speaks volumes about the political toxicity that now permeates the position. While a direct jump from Sergeant to Commander might not be a logical or desired progression for Hondo at this juncture, the team would undoubtedly respect a new leader chosen through merit and legitimate process, especially if Hicks had been allowed to exit with grace and a fun goodbye in the series finale. The current situation, however, leaves a sour taste, hinting at a future where leadership within the LAPD S.W.A.T. division might be determined more by political maneuvering than by genuine capability or earned respect.

The “infuriating” nature of Hicks’ departure extends beyond mere plot mechanics; it diminishes a beloved character, creates unnecessary bitterness, and feels like a cheap narrative device to instigate change rather than a meaningful character development. It deprives the series of a natural emotional arc for a core character, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill. As S.W.A.T. moves towards its ultimate conclusion, Hicks’ controversial exit serves as a stark reminder of the often-unjust realities faced even by the most dedicated public servants, leaving a bittersweet and somewhat unresolved feeling for a character who truly deserved a more fitting capstone to his distinguished career.