The new star of S.W.A.T. season 8 is sticking around, getting promoted to a series regular ahead of the show's midseason finale. The long-running CBS action drama has seen some changes to its cast recently, with the exits of Jim Street (Alex Russell) and Dominique Luca (Kenny Johnson). But the Shemar Moore-led procedural has adjusted to the departures, upgrading recurring characters and introducing new faces that complicate the story.
TVLine reports that Annie Ilonzeh has been upgraded to a series regular in S.W.A.T. season 8. Introduced as the recurring character of Devin Gamble, the Chicago Fire alum was one of the key changes for the current installment of the CBS series. The other involved Niko Pepaj, who plays Miguel Alfaro, becoming a main cast member. The news about Ilonzeh comes ahead of a midseason finale that will put a special focus on her character.
What The Latest Cast Promotion Means For S.W.A.T.
Devin Gamble Has A Complicated History
Although she never wanted to be defined by her family ties, Devin was born into a life of crime. She hoped that she could go on her own by being a standout rookie in the LAPD. But because her dad killed a cop, she gets off to a rough start with her new teammates. At one point, her windshield is adorned with the words "cop killer." Hondo sticks up for Devin, though, since he's the one who recruited her. Devin has also bonded with other team members, including Deacon (Jay Harrington).
In the midseason finale, which airs Friday, December 13 on CBS, Devin gets an unexpected visit from her dad Ernie (played by General Hospital actor Rif Hutton). It's likely to cause stress and bring the still simmering tensions back to the forefront. But perhaps after the midseason finale, Devin could be fully welcomed after the departure of several S.W.A.T. characters. In any case, it will be a chance for the show to examine the hypocrisy of Devin's teammates and put the story to rest.
Our Take On The Latest Cast Change For S.W.A.T.
It's How The Show Moves Forward
S.W.A.T. season 9 has not yet been confirmed. But one way that it could happen, both creatively and financially, is for the CBS series to swap out veteran cast members with newer additions. It has an impact on the show's budget and, on a story level, allowing S.W.A.T. to stay fresh and try out different narrative approaches.
Source: TVLine
