As the curtain falls on the 2024–25 television season, CBS has made big decisions that will reshape its prime-time lineup. The network has officially confirmed a mix of renewals, surprising cancellations, and exciting new shows for the 2025–26 season. While fan-favorite series have secured another run, others are getting the axe—including some shocking cuts.
Here’s a complete breakdown of what’s staying, what’s ending, and what’s new on CBS.
Renewed for 2025–26: Fan Favorites Return
CBS is bringing back several of its top-rated shows that continue to pull in strong ratings and loyal audiences. Confirmed to return:
- NCIS and its spin-offs (NCIS: Hawai’i and NCIS: Sydney)
- Ghosts – The popular fantasy sitcom continues to entertain fans with its supernatural charm.
- Tracker – Justin Hartley’s hit action-drama is coming back after a successful debut season.
These series will form the core of CBS’s lineup next season.
Canceled or Ending: 6 Major CBS Shows Cut
While some shows thrive, others have reached the end of their road. Here are the most notable cancellations:
1. Blue Bloods
- Status: Ended after 14 seasons
- Finale Date: December 2024
- What’s Next?: A spin-off titled Boston Blue is in development. It will star Donnie Wahlberg reprising his role as Danny Reagan, now based in Massachusetts. Though no premiere date is announced, it’s expected in the 2025–26 schedule.
2. FBI: Most Wanted
- Status: Canceled after Season 6
- Why It Matters: A surprise to fans, considering the show’s strong Tuesday night viewership alongside other FBI entries.
- Replaced By: A new series, CIA, starring Tom Ellis (Lucifer), which follows an FBI-CIA task force operating in New York.
3. FBI: International
- Status: Ending after Season 4
- Fan Hopes: Possibility of the show being picked up by another network or seeing character crossovers in the upcoming CIA series.
4. S.W.A.T.
- Status: Canceled for the third time
- Current Season: Season 8 is still airing Fridays at 10 PM ET
- Outlook: Star Shemar Moore has publicly appealed for another network or streamer to pick it up. Fans remain hopeful.
5. Poppa’s House
- Status: Canceled after 1 season
- Background: Created by Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr., the show was delayed due to 2023 strikes.
- Reason for Cancellation: Only one comedy renewal slot was available. It went to DMV, a new pilot.
6. The Summit
- Status: Not renewed for a second season
- Format: A reality competition hosted by Manu Bennett, with 16 contestants racing to the top of a treacherous mountain.
- Why Canceled: Despite dramatic twists and intense conditions, the series failed to deliver long-term ratings success.
What’s New on CBS: Introducing ‘CIA’
With FBI spin-offs winding down, CBS is betting on a fresh crime drama:
- CIA
- Lead: Tom Ellis (of Lucifer fame)
- Plot: Focuses on a joint task force between the FBI and CIA in New York City.
- Potential: May feature guest appearances or character cameos from the FBI universe.
Why These Changes Matter
CBS is clearly tightening its programming slate to make room for newer, potentially more dynamic series. Long-running shows like Blue Bloods and S.W.A.T. have had incredible runs, but shifting audience habits and budget considerations are forcing networks to make tough calls.
The upcoming lineup suggests a balance of:
- Core franchises (like NCIS)
- High-concept new dramas (CIA)
- Continuation of breakout hits (Ghosts, Tracker)
Final Thoughts
While some fans are disappointed to see their favorite series go, CBS’s strategy appears focused on refreshing its slate with new energy while preserving its biggest hits. As streaming services and rival networks fight for attention, CBS is carefully curating a lineup that blends tradition with innovation.
Stay tuned for premiere dates and additional casting announcements, especially for Boston Blue and CIA, which are expected to be highlights of the 2025–26 TV season.
