CBS has recently unveiled its schedule for the 2025-2026 television season, and while there are exciting prospects on the horizon, there’s also a wave of nostalgia as beloved series take their final bows. The network is on the verge of rolling out some fresh offerings, including a much-anticipated spinoff of the hit series *Yellowstone*, titled *Y: Marshals*. Fans will be thrilled to see Luke Grimes reprising his role as Kayce Dutton in this new saga, set to premiere on Sunday nights in the spring of 2026. Additionally, the fall lineup introduces *Sheriff Country*, a new series led by Morena Baccarin, expanding the universe of *Fire Country*.
However, amidst these new beginnings, CBS is also making some bittersweet farewells. The network has had to make tough calls, resulting in the cancellation of several fan favorites, including *FBI: Most Wanted* and *FBI: International*. The big question on many viewers’ minds was whether *The Equalizer*, starring Queen Latifah, would also face the axe. Unfortunately, the answer is a resounding yes.
For those tuning in tonight, the CBS primetime schedule will feature all-new episodes of *Tracker* and *Watson* from 8:00-10:00 p.m. ET, followed by a rerun of *The Equalizer* at 10:00 p.m. ET. But for fans hoping for a glimmer of hope regarding the show’s future, it’s important to note that last week’s episode, titled “Decisions,” served as the series finale.
In reflecting on these cancellations, CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach articulated the difficult decisions that networks must make in curating their lineups. She stated, “It’s not easy to end shows, and we had a lot of options this year. The schedule is really full, and we always have to look at all of our shows, examine the aggregate information, the creative direction of each series, financial considerations, and ratings before making those tough choices.”
This statement underscores a critical aspect of television today: the balance between fresh content and established series. According to a recent study by the Television Academy, networks are increasingly under pressure to innovate while also managing viewer expectations and loyalty. The rise of streaming services has intensified this competition, as platforms like Netflix and Hulu offer vast libraries that can overshadow traditional television programming.
As for *The Equalizer*, despite its loyal fanbase and strong performances, it has been officially confirmed that there will not be a sixth season. Reports indicate that Universal Television, the production company behind the series, has no plans to seek a new home for the show on alternative networks or streaming platforms.
In conclusion, while CBS is ushering in new narratives with promising spinoffs like *Y: Marshals* and *Sheriff Country*, the cancellation of *The Equalizer* serves as a poignant reminder of the shifting landscape of television. Viewers are left to navigate a sea of change, where beloved series can come to an end as new stories beckon on the horizon. As fans reflect on the journeys of their favorite characters, the industry continues to evolve, highlighting the need for networks to adapt to the ever-changing viewing habits of their audiences.