The recent cancellation of S.W.A.T. after its third, and seemingly final, run has left fans concerned that the most heartwarming storyline may not receive the conclusion it deserves. Following CBS’s decision to scrap the show’s upcoming ninth season and wrap up loose ends in the season eight finale, fans are left to wonder how much can realistically be addressed in such a short time frame. During this challenging period, the dedicated cast campaigned tirelessly for a final renewal, but it appears CBS’s decision is unchangeable.
Initially, S.W.A.T. faced cancellation in season six, which was later reversed, and again in season seven, leading to the anticipation of season eight. Now, with its impending conclusion, several story arcs are left unresolved, sparking fears that the most beloved narratives may be overshadowed by more action-driven plots.
The Conclusion of S.W.A.T. Appears to Sideline Chris & Street’s Romance
S.W.A.T. Shifts Its Focus to the 20-Squad
Given CBS’s cancellation announcement before the season eight finale, the writing team is under immense pressure to conclude ongoing storylines in a way that resonates with viewers. This inevitably means that some plot threads will not be explored fully. Notably, recent synopsis details from TVLine reveal that the much-anticipated wedding of Chris and Street will not be included in the series finale.
When an auto carrier truck gets hijacked by a high-speed crew, Hondo encounters a ghost from his past – a violent car thief thought to be long-dead. As the brutal road warriors tear across L.A. in pursuit of a mysterious $60 million car, Hondo’s old rivalry reignites, and he’s forced to confront a long-held fear. Also, Gamble is thrust into a personal crisis when her brother, Leon, becomes tangled in the investigation, putting Gamble’s SWAT future in jeopardy.
Then at 10 pm, the SWAT team undertakes its final mission when a violent crew of ex-pat Russian mercenaries holds Los Angeles hostage after planting hundreds of hidden explosives across the city in a bid to extort the release of their brutal leader, Dmitri Rykov. When Rykov is brought to SWAT for safekeeping, SWAT HQ comes under attack, forcing Hondo and 20-Squad to fight for their very survival.
The season eight finale promises to deliver a gripping conclusion, albeit consistent with the show’s character. In a conversation with TVLine, showrunner Andrew Dettmann emphasized the intention for viewers to feel continuity in Hondo’s journey alongside the 20-Squad, regardless of the series’ end. This thematic approach is likely why a wedding for Chris and Street has not been prioritized, emphasizing an ongoing fight rather than a conclusive finale.
Constraints on Presenting Chris & Street’s Wedding
The Season 8 Cancellation Poses Challenges
The prospect of witnessing Chris and Street’s wedding during the finale is slim due to timing issues. Had the producers been informed of the cancellation earlier, there might have been enough narrative space to incorporate this significant moment. However, expectations for continued seasons meant that time constraints hindered any plans for wedding scenes.
As the final episode airs on May 16 at 9 p.m. ET on CBS, challenges also arise from the stars’ current commitments. Both Lina Esco (Chris) and Alex Russell (Street) have moved on from S.W.A.T., making a swift return for a dedicated episode increasingly unlikely.
Possible Reconciliation for Chris & Street’s Wedding Absence
S.W.A.T. Might Acknowledge the Characters Off-Screen
The absence of an on-screen wedding for Chris and Street does not definitively shut the door on the event occurring in the future. Their wedding could simply be referenced, perhaps through dialogue among other characters. Given their strong bonds with members of the 20-Squad, it is quite plausible that someone will mention receiving a wedding invitation.
Moreover, the show’s writers may strive to provide some sense of closure in light of the abrupt cancellations that left multiple storylines unresolved. A coherent ending could take precedence over orchestrating an elaborate wedding scene.
Ultimately, the most satisfying outcome would involve a surprise appearance by Chris and Street during the finale. Although official statements suggest they will not return, season finales have a history of unexpected twists. While written summaries are available for the two-part finale, they leave room for speculation about the cast’s involvement. Remaining hopeful for a last-minute cameo by the beloved couple might be the best way to bid farewell to S.W.A.T. as it wraps its eighth season.
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