Television shows often face a tumultuous journey, especially when it comes to their cancellations and revivals. A number of popular series have been yanked from the airwaves only to return later, before eventually facing their final fate. One of the most notable examples of this pattern is S.W.A.T., which has experienced a rollercoaster of cancellations and renewals over its years on air. Here’s a deeper look at S.W.A.T. and other beloved shows that were canceled multiple times before they were ultimately axed for good.
S.W.A.T. – After six seasons, CBS originally canceled S.W.A.T. in 2023, only to reverse its decision and bring the action-packed drama back for a seventh season. This decision was a shock to fans, and they were hopeful that the series would get a longer life. However, CBS surprised viewers yet again in May 2024, renewing the series for an eighth season, only to cancel it a second time in March 2025. Lead actor Shemar Moore passionately expressed his disbelief at the decision, even suggesting that Netflix might be a better home for the show, pointing to the success S.W.A.T. had in the past when it became a top-ranked show on streaming platforms. Moore even humorously extended invitations to other networks, urging them to pick up the show.
The X-Files – Another iconic show that went through this cancellation cycle is The X-Files. Originally airing from 1993 to 2001, the beloved sci-fi series became a cultural phenomenon. After nine seasons, Fox canceled the show, only for it to return in 2016 for two more seasons. Unfortunately, the revival didn’t have the staying power fans hoped for, and the show was once again canceled after just two seasons. Despite the ups and downs, The X-Files remains an important piece of television history.
Baywatch – Perhaps one of the most well-known cases of cancellation and revival is Baywatch. The original version of the show debuted in 1989 but was canceled after one season. However, the network saw potential in the series and revived it in 1991, bringing it into syndication. The show went on to run for a total of 11 seasons before it was ultimately canceled in 2001. This shows how sometimes a change in format or timing can lead to a series getting a second wind, even after an initial flop.
Community – This cult classic was another casualty of multiple cancellations. Community was canceled by NBC in 2014 after five seasons. However, the show found new life when Yahoo! Screen picked it up for a sixth season, only to face another cancellation after that. Fans still clamor for a movie to tie up the loose ends of the series, but as of now, it seems unlikely.
Timeless – NBC’s Timeless was an anomaly when it came to cancellation decisions. The show, which combined elements of time travel and historical events, was canceled after its first season in 2017. Just days later, NBC reversed the decision, bringing the show back for a second season. Despite this, Timeless was canceled once again, though NBC did allow for a two-part finale to wrap up the storyline.
Designated Survivor – Starring Kiefer Sutherland, Designated Survivor had a rocky journey of its own. Initially aired on ABC in 2016, the political thriller was canceled after two seasons. However, Netflix picked up the series for a third season, only to cancel it again. This series, like many others, suffered from the changing tides of television and streaming service preferences, leading to its demise.
These examples highlight the unpredictable nature of television production and viewership. In an era of binge-watching and streaming, networks often take risks, canceling shows only to bring them back after strong fan support. Shows like S.W.A.T., The X-Files, and Community remain staples in TV history, with their unpredictable fates solidifying them as part of the entertainment landscape.