CBS has finalized its 2026-27 scripted lineup, canceling sophomore drama Watson and freshman comedy DMV. What were once season finales will now serve as series finales, with Watson ending May 3 and DMV wrapping May 11.
The decision arrives just weeks before CBS unveils its full fall schedule on April 15, but the outcome isn’t exactly surprising. Both series had been left in limbo since january, when the network handed out a wave of early renewals and notably excluded the two titles.
Watson, led by Morris Chestnut, entered its second season with some momentum. The Sherlock Holmes-inspired medical drama launched solidly behind Tracker and initially earned a renewal. But its trajectory shifted after CBS moved it from Sundays to Mondays behind FBI to fill a scheduling gap. The change led to a ratings dip, and despite a return to Sundays, the series never fully regained its footing.
Meanwhile, DMV showed early promise. The single-camera workplace comedy debuted with strong multiplatform numbers, pulling in over 10 million viewers during its premiere window and even outperforming its lead-in at the time, The Neighborhood. However, its delayed viewing declined as the season progressed, ultimately weakening its long-term viability.
The cancellations also reflect CBS’ broader confidence in its incoming slate. On the drama side, new entries like Marshals and CIA quickly secured second-season renewals, joining a robust lineup that includes Sheriff Country and Boston Blue. The network has also already greenlit additional series for next season, including Cupertino and Einstein.
On the comedy front, the exit of DMV — paired with the upcoming conclusion of The Neighborhood — signals a shift toward new contenders. CBS is reportedly bullish on its comedy pilots, including Eternally Yours and Tillbrooks, both of which are gaining early traction internally.
Ultimately, Watson and DMV became casualties of a crowded and increasingly competitive slate. As CBS locks in its priorities for the 2026-27 season, the focus is clearly on newer series with stronger momentum — leaving these two shows to close out their runs this spring.