A Complete Guide to the Seasons of SWAT
The television series SWAT has captivated audiences since its 2017 premiere, delivering intense action sequences, compelling storylines, and dynamic characters. Based on the 1975 television series and 2003 film, this modern adaptation has carved its own niche in crime dramas.
Season 1: The Beginning (2017-2018)
The series introduces Sergeant Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson (played by Shemar Moore), who becomes the leader of the Los Angeles S.W.A.T. team following a controversial shooting.
Key Highlights:
- Character Introduction: Meet core team members like Deacon Kay, Chris Alonso, and Jim Street
- Themes: Exploration of loyalty, justice, and leadership challenges
- Hondo balancing community loyalty with badge duties
- Jim Street's integration into the team
For more details, visit the SWAT Season 1 overview on IMDb.
Season 2: Expanding Horizons (2018-2019)
The sophomore season deepened character relationships while raising operational stakes.
Notable Elements:
- International drug cartels
- Human trafficking investigations
- Deacon Kay's financial struggles
- Character development, particularly testing Hondo's leadership
- Notable episodes: "Day Off" and "The Tiffany Experience"
Check out Rotten Tomatoes for season reviews.
Season 3: High Stakes (2019-2020)
"Season 3 marked a turning point for SWAT, combining intense action with relevant social commentary." - TV Line
The season was impacted by COVID-19, running 21 episodes instead of 22, but delivered powerful storylines:
- Street's relationship with his mother
- Hondo's leadership during civil unrest
- Plot twists featuring unexpected alliances and betrayals
- Social issues including racial tensions and police reform
Season 4: A New Era (2020-2021)
This season reflected real-world events, incorporating:
- Black Lives Matter movement
- COVID-19 impact on first responders
- Police reform discussions
- Character growth, especially Chris and Street
- Notable episodes: "3 Seventeen Year Olds" and "Stakeout"
Season 5: Continuing the Legacy (2021-2022)
Season 5 brought significant changes and developments:
- Chris Alonso's departure
- 20-Squad facing internal conflicts
- Hondo's journey to Mexico
- New team dynamics
- Notable episodes: "Vagabundo" and "Crisis Actor"
Behind the Scenes
Each season's production involves:
- 8-12 days of filming per episode
- Extensive tactical training for actors
- Consultation with real SWAT officers
- Complex stunt coordination
Impact and Recognition
Throughout its seasons, SWAT has maintained strong viewership (5-7 million viewers per episode) and received recognition for:
- Stunt coordination excellence
- Technical achievements
- Performance accolades
- Social impact
- Authentic action sequences
- Diverse representation
For more information, visit the official SWAT page on CBS or the SWAT IMDb Page.