Grab your gear, because S.W.A.T. isn’t done kicking down doors just yet. Just months after the original series wrapped its explosive finale, fans finally have their next mission: S.W.A.T.: Exiles. And yes, Shemar Moore is officially back as Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson — this time stepping out of retirement to face one of his toughest battles yet.

According to a new interview with Variety, Sony Pictures Television’s president Katherine Pope confirmed that production on S.W.A.T.: Exiles will begin at the end of August, keeping the cameras rolling in Santa Clarita, the long-standing home base of the franchise. Pope also revealed one of the main reasons the spinoff was fast-tracked: to keep the original S.W.A.T. crew employed and the community thriving.

“We’re planning to start production end of August — so we’re moving,” Pope said. “It’s important to us to keep our community healthy. S.W.A.T. has always shot at the same stages in Santa Clarita, and a big piece of why we wanted to greenlight quickly was to keep our team working.”

A Fast Turnaround for a New Mission

With the spinoff announced in May and filming set for August, S.W.A.T.: Exiles is moving faster than most TV reboots or continuations. That quick turnaround means the show could premiere as early as 2026, bridging the gap for fans still reeling from the end of S.W.A.T. Season 8.

In Exiles, Hondo will reportedly be called out of retirement to assist an experimental and unpredictable S.W.A.T. unit, setting the stage for a story that mixes familiar tactics with new tension. Pope also teased that other fan-favorite characters from the franchise will return, giving longtime viewers plenty of reasons to tune in.

Why S.W.A.T.: Exiles Already Feels Like a Win

The decision to keep the same crew, same location, and core creative energy behind the camera is a smart move — one that promises the new series will carry the gritty authenticity that made S.W.A.T. a primetime powerhouse. Even as the story evolves, that sense of continuity should help the world of S.W.A.T. feel intact.

And, of course, having Shemar Moore front and center seals the deal. His portrayal of Hondo has always been the heart of the show — tough, loyal, and unshakably human. Now, seeing him step back into the role after hanging up his badge gives Exiles the emotional punch fans have been craving.

What’s Next for Fans

With production set to begin in late summer, fans can expect more casting announcements and first-look photos before the year’s out. If all goes according to plan, S.W.A.T.: Exiles will hit Paramount and CBS platforms sometime in 2026, continuing the legacy of a show that refuses to quit.

It may be called Exiles, but for Hondo — and for S.W.A.T. fans everywhere — this comeback feels like coming home.

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