SWAT saw the exit of one of its original cast members during the season five finale. Actress Lina Esco has departed the CBS series after playing Officer Christine Alonso for 106 episodes. The groundwork for the character’s exit from the show was laid weeks ago with Alonso’s plans to leave SWAT and take over the safe house for Mama Pina. Esco confirmed her exit from the CBS show in a post on her Instagram account.
Per Deadline, Esco said the following about her exit from the CBS series:
“Bringing to life a strong, smart, bisexual character like Chris Alonso has been both a pleasure and a powerful opportunity to increase visibility for diverse women everywhere. Five years later, I am leaving S.W.A.T. to pursue new creative endeavors. Chris never backs down from the unknown and as an actor and director, I’m excited to step out of my comfort zone and embark on a new chapter, too.
That said, this is one of the most difficult decisions I’ve had to make. I’m forever grateful to my S.W.A.T. family – my fellow cast, writers, and producers – for an incredible journey. To the amazing S.W.A.T. fans, you are the heart of the show. I can’t thank you enough for your support and for walking beside me through all of Chris’ journey!”
SWAT has been renewed for a sixth season, and it will return to Friday nights next fall.
What do you think? Are you sad to see Esco leave SWAT after five seasons on CBS?
Glad her character is gone. Her character demonstrated a weak woman who strung people along. Nothing about her was redeemable. Her exist is the only part of her character worth anything. Now, the actress is brilliant, she will be missed. Love her. She made me become in disliking her character. That is talent!
I’m very sad to see her leave yet I understand that she needs to continue to grow within herself and her career. I wish her much success and know as a fan she is always welcome back. Many blessings.
Will miss her. Wish she would stay. Love the strength she brought into the show. Perhaps her outside rolle can be brought into the show. Or she parhaps getting someone trustworthy to work alongside her in the hm with the children and she returning to Swat to continue her rolle.
The best ever…Kenny Johnson is my favorite since I watched him in Amazing Grace..Shemar Moore one of the top performers and is very sexy..
Will miss her greatly!
Yes especially since her and street finally got together. How’s that gonna work. They are together but she’s gone? Weird story line. Nevertheless I will be looking forward to season 6! Love me some S.W.A.T. And that season finale was off the hook!
My least favourite character. Not that the character was bad but just didn’t quite fit in for me.