‘S.W.A.T. Exiles’ Explained: Sony Execs on Keeping the Franchise Alive, Where the New Show Might Live, What It’s About — And Whether Other Stars Will Return With Shemar Moore (EXCLUSIVE)

Back in March, CBS decided to cancel “S.W.A.T.”, a move that wasn’t unprecedented – actually, it was their third cancellation for this show. Previously, the network and Sony Pictures TV had managed to work out some clever negotiations to keep it going after the first two cancellations. However, this time, they weren’t able to save it.

According to Katherine Pope, president of Sony Pictures TV Studios, it was evident from CBS that the show had reached its conclusion. It was a challenging choice for them, but it seemed definitive. Consequently, we endeavored to find another network to broadcast the series. We exerted considerable effort, and we came close at certain platforms, yet ultimately couldn’t quite seal the deal.

Sony has built a reputation for rescuing canceled TV series like “Community” (from NBC to Yahoo!), “Cobra Kai” (YouTube to Netflix) and “One Day at a Time” (Netflix to Pop TV). However, as Pope pointed out, the days when streaming platforms would take a gamble on shows that already had an established fanbase but were canceled are largely behind us. Migrating a show from one platform it’s been on for so long to another in today’s world is quite challenging, according to him.

Developing a “S.W.A.T.” spinoff instead. As Pope explained, this idea had been discussed for a couple of years – expanding the “S.W.A.T.” universe by adding a new series. They already had a tentative title for it: “S.W.A.T. Academy.

However, as time went on, Sony made a surprising announcement at its L.A. Screenings event on Sunday. They unveiled that “S.W.A.T.” actor Shemar Moore would reprise his role as Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson in the spinoff “S.W.A.T. Exiles,” with Jason Ning (“Lucifer”) serving as the showrunner. The risky move: Sony has commissioned 10 episodes, but hasn’t secured any domestic or international partners for distribution yet.

One of several unanswered questions about the situation is where everything stands, but there are also queries about what will happen and how it will unfold. For instance, will Sony finance “S.W.A.T. Exiles”? If so, will this show be exclusively sold to a global streamer or divided among different platforms in the U.S. and internationally? Could CBS or Paramount+ potentially reconsider their involvement? In relation to “Exiles,” are additional “S.W.A.T.” series being planned? And might other “S.W.A.T.” actors apart from Moore appear in the spinoff? At this moment, all these questions remain uncertain with a possible answer of “perhaps.

Pope and chairman Keith Le Goy of Sony Pictures TV recently had a chat with EbMaster to explain the mechanics of “S.W.A.T. Exiles”, describe its theme, and discuss possible destinations for the show. (The answers have been shortened and clarified.)

Walk me through how this all came about.

Pope: We’ve been putting in a lot of effort to secure a new base for “S.W.A.T.” We discussed this with Keith, who suggested, “Why not consider that spinoff we’ve often talked about?” Considering the strength of our brand and team, we began contemplating ways to maintain our crew, our sets, and our desire to keep the show in L.A., given the current city and business circumstances. This spurred us on to act quickly. We brainstormed ideas, discussed the cast, and the creative aspects. I credit Keith and Ravi for their determination: “Let’s not stop now. Let’s press forward, find excellent collaborators, and locate the perfect place for it. But let’s not procrastinate. If keeping our team together means ensuring the show’s essence remains intact, then let’s do it.” And that’s how it happened. Everything moved so quickly.

Give me the timetable. After CBS canceled “S.W.A.T.,” how long did it take to put “S.W.A.T. Exiles” together?

Pope: I think the whole thing came together within weeks!

The library is over at Netflix, right? Was that also complicated in terms of doing new episodes somewhere else?

Pope: It’s actually non-exclusive there, so there’s no conflict.

There’s absolutely no conflict here. I believe having the library on Netflix has opened up a significant group of fans to the show, and allowed them to immerse themselves in the “S.W.A.T.” universe. This spin-off seems very appealing in the marketplace due to this factor. The high visibility of the franchise has been beneficial.

From a business perspective, a significant aspect of this story is that as American classic series production decreases, international viewers express their love for these shows and ask where they can find them. Shows like “S.W.A.T.” are popular worldwide. If we have the chance to keep many of our producers, crew members, and Shemar Moore involved, and fulfill this demand, that seems like an opportunity for us as a studio. It’s almost like everything old is becoming new again. This is what studios typically do – take on risks and then work hard to find suitable partners and a suitable platform. However, it seems that this is something we excel at here at Sony Pictures.

L.A. Screenings was your deadline to get this in shape — which like you said, was about a month. So what did it take to pull the trigger on “S.W.A.T. Exiles” even though you had no network partners? Were you pretty confident you’d be able to sell the show?

In order to succeed, it was crucial for us to have an outstanding concept, secure Shemar’s participation, and establish a sound financial plan. Of course, there were potential risks involved. After all, this is an industry based on taking chances. We evaluated the risk versus reward, trusting in our storytelling skills and our capacity to captivate audiences worldwide.

Tell me more about the creative. You mentioned you needed Shemar on board first. What were those conversations like? Then, how did you end up with Jason Ning as the showrunner?

Pope: From the very beginning, Neil Moritz was actively pushing this project. So, Neil and co-EP Pavun [Shetty] and I began discussing it in real-time. Meanwhile, these discussions with Neil and Pavun were also happening simultaneously with Shemar. Curious about the project, as any reasonable person would be, Shemar asked, “What exactly is this show? What’s the concept behind it?

Initially, we approached Shawn Ryan, the creator of “S.W.A.T.”, however, he’s currently occupied with our project “The Night Agent” and has signed an exclusive deal with Netflix. As a result, he couldn’t participate, but he remains incredibly supportive of Shemar and the team. We then discussed this with Jason, whom we have a partnership with. He put considerable thought into it and presented a pitch that was both intelligent and innovative, while maintaining the core values of “S.W.A.T.”, but also making it something uniquely different.

This narrative explores the contrast between Gen X’s traditional values, exemplified by Hondo’s emphasis on duty, hierarchy, and command, versus Gen Z’s more open and self-expressive approach, such as prioritizing mental health and open communication. In essence, it’s our interpretation of the generational conflict portrayed in “Top Gun Maverick.” The question at hand is: how can these generations learn from each other and bridge not just age gaps but all forms of division? Our story suggests that by taking time to listen, collaborate, and truly understand teamwork, we could potentially create a more harmonious world. Neil and Pavun were captivated, and then shared it with Shemar who was equally enthusiastic. And so, the project took off.

How did you land on making 10 episodes, and crunching a budget that would make sense for Sony, particularly since you’re shooting in Los Angeles?

Pope: This team we’ve had for eight seasons has been unbeatable and remarkably steady. Jim Scura, who will be in charge of “S.W.A.T. Exiles” as a line producer, joined us on “S.W.A.T.” and worked his way up the ranks. When you’re tackling risks, it’s crucial to trust your team. What made this “S.W.A.T.” team so remarkable was that, come what may, they always delivered on time and within budget. Even when things went awry, during COVID or when fires occurred, they managed to adapt seamlessly.

In my opinion, ten episodes seems to be the sweet spot for effectively conveying our narrative. We considered eight, ten, and thirteen episodes and ultimately opted for ten.

Le Goy: At least for Season 1!

And I’m sure it depends on the buyers too. So are you looking at a good old fashioned mix of a domestic deal, and various international deals?

We seem to be returning to the conventional methods, but with a unique twist: this time, we’re simultaneously negotiating domestic and international deals. This offers us an array of distinct and intriguing chances to match up things in innovative and captivating ways.

So there is also still the possibility of a Netflix or another streamer taking global rights?

Le Goy: Everything’s on the table.

Including selling “S.W.A.T. Exiles” to a broadcaster in the U.S.?

Le Goy: Everything is on the table!

CBS Studios was a partner on the original show, because of the deal with airing on CBS. Do you have to negotiate with them in terms of continuing the franchise without them? How does that work?

Pope: We warned them that this situation might develop, and provided them with some of our predictions. It appears they are creating their own forecasts. As of now, they haven’t joined in, but they have the opportunity if they wish. We should know whether they will participate or not fairly soon. Collaborating with CBS Studios has been fantastic; they are an excellent team. If they decide to take part, we are more than willing. And if not, we are prepared to carry on without them.

So if CBS or Paramount+ are interested in “S.W.A.T. Exiles,” then CBS Studios could continue to be partners on this new project?

Indeed, they might collaborate with us in multiple capacities – as a production partner, a distribution partner, or even in both roles simultaneously.

Sony, more than any other studio, has become known for finding unique ways to keep projects alive, to evolve IP. I’ve written about so many shows that you’ve have found ways to revive in different ways. What it is as an independent studio that allows you to do these kind of things?

As a movie reviewer, I’d put it this way: Our independence gives us the freedom to experiment with diverse storytelling methods. Regardless of who we collaborate with, our primary concern is always the narrative and the creators behind it. We’re committed to fostering these stories in a manner that benefits everyone involved – cast, crew, studio, audience, and global partners. It’s a constant quest for us: how can we keep pushing the boundaries of storytelling while ensuring its success?

This presents us with various options for the optimal methodology. Should we opt for the conventional deficit financing strategy? Or perhaps the streamer cost-plus method? Could it be a revised, innovative take on these techniques that opens up a novel approach?

Pope: Upon my arrival, everyone spoke highly of Sony’s indomitable spirit, saying “Sony never gives up.” I found this sentiment truly inspiring, but it wasn’t until I witnessed it in every facet of the company’s operations that I fully grasped its significance. Every team member works tirelessly to preserve these productions and explore new possibilities. Being a part of such an energetic and resilient group has certainly motivated me to strive for even greater heights.

I find it interesting that you really don’t know how this show is going to be financed. It depends on what deal you ultimately do, if it’s going to be deficit finance, if it’s going to be cost plus. But you felt comfortable enough, no matter what, to greenlight the show?

Well, “comfortable” might not be the right term here. It seems you mean that one is drawn to something slightly unsettling or challenging, precisely because of its appeal as a personal belief or conviction. That’s essentially what this business model is all about – people investing in things they truly believe in.

Is there a possibility of coupling the “S.W.A.T. Exiles” deal with additional “S.W.A.T.” spin offs, or pairing it with the existing eight-season “S.W.A.T.” library? What are some opportunities that you’re pitching out there?

As an avid fan, I can confirm that the opportunities within this universe are abundant. We’ve got a film from 2003 and an original creation at our disposal. Over the past several decades, this franchise has grown substantially, with the last eight seasons arguably being its most successful and popular phase so far. This strong foundation now serves as an ideal launchpad for “S.W.A.T. Exiles.”>

So far, only Shemar has been announced as making the transfer, but is there a possibility of any other characters or stars from the “S.W.A.T.” mothership moving to “Exiles”?

Pope: Absolutely! Just as Keith mentioned, this is indeed a universe we’re delving into. We’ve been at it for a few weeks now and there’s still much to piece together. However, I’m confident that you’ll see some of your beloved characters making an appearance in some form or another.

What’s the ETA here? When are you hoping that cameras might roll?

Pope: We’re planning start production end of August, so, we’re moving!

You mentioned that keeping this crew employed was important to you.

I: Truly, this aspect holds significant weight in the grand scheme. Reflecting on our team and our locality, it’s crucial that we preserve the wellbeing of our community. We produce several shows on our premises, and “S.W.A.T.” has consistently filmed at the same Santa Clarita stages. One of the main reasons for our swift approval was to maintain employment opportunities within our community.

Shemar seems excited. I’ve never seen so many capital letters or exclamation marks in a press release quote.

Pope: On Sundays, he was spotted at the screenings alongside Keith, demonstrating his natural flair for performance. He adores his audience, cherishes this production, and relishes playing Hondo. His passion is contagious.

This show has got nine lives.

Pope: Or ten or 12!

2025-05-22 22:18