The finale of the fan-adored CBS series “SWAT,” EXPLOSIVE FINALE, is a majorly climactic, conflict-rich episode full of suspense and intrigue. For the character of Daniel “Hondo” Kay (Shemar Moore), a new commander, it is an especially daunting challenge. Then the return of infamous criminal Torque raises terrifying ghosts from Hondo’s past. The series culminates in explosive confrontations and personal dilemmas, testing the loyalties and moral compasses of Hondo and his team.
As the series comes to an end, Hondo’s rage against Torque is even more intense. Years earlier, Torque had gotten behind the wheel of a car and killed a teenage girl. This tragedy took a heavy toll on Hondo, who was forced to carry the traumatic burden of notifying the victim’s family. When Torque re-enters Hondo’s life, the emotional gravity of their shared past is immediately felt. This compels Hondo to face his rage and find his better angels.
Hondo’s Struggles with Loyalty and Betrayal
In the first seasons’ final episodes, Hondo’s priorities start to change from just police crime-fighting efforts to doubting his team’s allegiance. For Annie Ilonzeh’s character, Gamble, this rings especially true as her brother is pulled into a risky carjacking scheme. This added pressure increases her status as an officer and tests her loyalty to the squad.
Gamble, as she grapples with her family’s criminal past and does her best to serve the community to which she is pledged as an officer. Her struggle pulls her to reconsider joining the other members of her team in returning to Oakland. She expresses her turmoil succinctly, stating,
“As long as I’m here, I can’t be a good sister or a good cop.” – Gamble
Our team—as they seek to fulfill the weighty mandate of their last missions. When personal loyalties are pitted against professional responsibilities, it can be an emotionally charged and stressful environment.
A Race Against Time
The stakes increase exponentially when Hondo attempts to get close to Dmitri Rykov. Rykov is a significant threat, a Russian mercenary and terrorist in CIA custody. Rykov possesses crucial intel on the deadly Russian crime syndicate known as Red Sword. This consortium has deeply disturbing intentions to take advantage of cutting edge drone technology. Red Sword will plant hundreds of land mines in parks and playgrounds throughout Los Angeles. This illegal and reckless decision is causing an immediate threat to the community.
Hondo and his squad’s destiny quickly becomes linked with Rykov’s. Together, they race against time to stop Red Sword’s plans. At the same time, the agency hopes to get rid of Rykov before he’s able to disclose their secrets to the Kremlin. As that growing threat makes Hondo’s mission all the more urgent, so too does our timing.
In these turbulent times, Deacon stops to take stock. He reflects on what a long way the two of them have come as a coaching tandem. He shares a poignant thought:
“Recently, a wise man reminded me that SWAT officers are always running on borrowed time.” – Deacon
This feeling is felt much more strongly as the team meets their most perilous trials to date.
Explosive Showdowns and Lasting Bonds
As the finale plays out, Hondo finally faces Torque in a climactic chase through the black market back alleys of Los Angeles. Hondo battles Torque in an emotional, climactic fight. Quickly the man pulls the trigger and sends a bullet through Torque’s forehead, finally serving justice that has been deserved for all the suffering Torque has inflicted.
The big climax includes an explosive firefight with Russian mercenaries that pretty much blows apart the SWAT HQ to smithereens. The action-packed scenes showcase not only the physical dangers but the emotional toll on Hondo and his team as they fight for survival.
As a tribute to their lifelong friendship, Deacon gives the team a meaningful parting gift—a watch—to mark their years spent together. To achieve that hope, he begins with a lofty intention, writing,
“I hope this will always be a reminder of every minute spent together on this team. It’s the greatest gift of all.” – Deacon
This gesture underscores the strong bonds formed throughout their journey.
