CBS is shaking up its 2025–2026 television schedule with a bold and strategic overhaul. The network has announced the cancellation of eight series while simultaneously greenlighting an array of fresh projects, signaling a clear shift toward revitalizing its content and meeting the evolving tastes of today’s viewers. This reimagined lineup balances the farewell to some beloved shows with the promise of new, diverse storytelling designed to capture audience attention in an increasingly competitive TV landscape.
Major Series Exits Mark a Turning Point
Among the most notable cancellations, S.W.A.T. is wrapping up after an impressive eight-season run. The action-packed drama starring Shemar Moore closes this chapter, marking the end of an era for fans of high-stakes police narratives. Similarly, CBS is ending two of its popular FBI franchise spin-offs: FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International. After six and four seasons respectively, both shows will no longer be part of the network’s lineup, narrowing the focus back to the original FBI series, which continues strong.
The network is also bidding farewell to The Equalizer, Queen Latifah’s contemporary take on the classic crime-fighting series, after five seasons. The sitcom The Neighborhood, starring Cedric the Entertainer and Max Greenfield, concludes after eight seasons, closing the door on a staple of CBS’s comedic offerings.
Shorter-lived shows like Poppa’s House, a family comedy featuring Damon Wayans Sr. and Jr., will not return after its single season, while the reality endurance show The Summit faces cancellation following lackluster critical reception. Lastly, After Midnight, the late-night talk show hosted by comedian Taylor Tomlinson, wraps up as the host shifts focus back to her stand-up career.
Continued Success for CBS Favorites
Despite these cuts, CBS remains committed to several cornerstone series. The original FBI remains a staple in the network’s primetime, delivering strong ratings and fan loyalty. The NCIS franchise continues its dominance with the upcoming return of NCIS, NCIS: Origins, and the international installment NCIS: Sydney, all slated for new seasons.
The supernatural comedy Ghosts has secured its place with both fifth and sixth seasons confirmed, reflecting its growing popularity. Other renewed series include Tracker, Elsbeth, and the classic game show Hollywood Squares, showcasing CBS’s dedication to a mix of genres that appeal across demographics.
Fresh Faces and New Stories on CBS
To inject fresh energy into its schedule, CBS is launching several new shows. One of the most anticipated is Boston Blue, a spin-off from the hit series Blue Bloods, starring Donnie Wahlberg and set against the backdrop of Boston’s gritty streets. The network is also expanding the FBI universe with FBI: CIA, focusing on a high-stakes collaboration between FBI and CIA agents tackling domestic terrorism threats.
Other new entries are designed to captivate diverse audiences with unique concepts: America’s Culinary Cup brings competitive cooking drama; DMV offers a fresh take on workplace comedy; Harlan Coben’s Final Twist delivers gripping thriller storytelling; The Road and Sheriff Country explore intriguing dramatic themes; while Y: Marshals promises a fresh law enforcement narrative.
A Strategic Shift for a Competitive Future
CBS’s programming changes illustrate a deliberate pivot to remain relevant in a rapidly changing television environment. By closing long-running series that have reached their narrative conclusions and introducing fresh, varied content, CBS aims to attract new viewers while retaining loyal audiences. This strategy acknowledges that evolving viewer habits and preferences require innovation both in storytelling and genre variety.
The response from fans of the canceled series has been mixed, with some voicing disappointment and even initiating campaigns to save their favorite shows. However, CBS appears resolute, focusing on cultivating a dynamic lineup that combines trusted franchises with bold new projects.
Looking Ahead to 2025–2026
As the new television season approaches, audiences can expect a dynamic mix of familiar favorites and captivating new series on CBS. The network’s refreshed slate reflects its ambition to stay competitive and resonate with modern viewers, delivering compelling content across drama, comedy, reality, and beyond. This thoughtful recalibration highlights CBS’s commitment to adapting and thriving in an increasingly crowded entertainment landscape, promising a 2025–2026 season full of fresh stories and renewed excitement.
