David Lim, known for his role as Officer Tan on CBS’s "S.W.A.T.," recently expressed his feelings about the announcement of a spinoff series titled "S.W.A.T. Exiles." This new show will feature only Shemar Moore, who reprises his character, Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, while the rest of the original cast will not return. Lim’s comments came shortly after the original series was canceled in March 2025, following eight successful seasons.
In a heartfelt statement, Lim said that learning about the spinoff felt like a "sting." He reflected on his time with "S.W.A.T.," describing it as one of the greatest honors of his life. He emphasized the strong bonds and friendships formed among the cast and crew, stating that the show’s success was built on their teamwork and chemistry.
Lim expressed disappointment that the cast was not acknowledged during the spinoff’s announcement, which came just two days after the series finale. He noted that it would have been nice to have a moment of reflection for the team that helped create the show. He shared that while he is proud of their efforts to fight for a ninth season, he feels there were still many stories left to tell.
He thanked the fans for their support and reiterated his pride in the entire "S.W.A.T." team. Lim’s co-stars, Niko Pepaj and Annie Ilonzeh, voiced their support for his sentiments in the comments on social media.
Shemar Moore, the only returning cast member for the spinoff, shared his thoughts on the changes. He acknowledged that change can be difficult but also necessary for growth. Moore expressed confidence in the new direction, referring to himself as the "Tom Brady of ‘S.W.A.T.’" and highlighting his dedication to the show over the years.
"S.W.A.T. Exiles" was announced by Sony Pictures shortly after the original series concluded, and it has sparked mixed reactions from fans and former cast members. The original series featured a talented ensemble, including Stephanie Sigman, Alex Russell, Lina Esco, Kenny Johnson, Jay Harrington, and Patrick St. Esprit.
As the "S.W.A.T." team moves forward, Lim’s heartfelt message serves as a reminder of the strong connections formed during their time together and the impact the show had on its audience.