As CBS Renews NCIS, The Amazing Race, And Survivor, Two Black Led Series ‘Watson’ and ‘DMV’ Prepare To Exit In May
CBS is moving forward with a new slate of programming, but not without cutting two of its series led by prominent Black actors. The network confirmed Friday that Watson starring Morris Chestnut and DMV starring Tim Meadows will both end this spring.
The decision comes as CBS renews a wide range of established franchises, including NCIS, Survivor, and The Amazing Race, signaling where the network is placing its long term bets.
Watson Drew Millions But Still Gets Cut
Watson, a medical drama inspired by the Sherlock Holmes universe, debuted in January 2025 and quickly found an audience. The show was renewed for a second season just two months after its premiere, pointing to early confidence from the network.
Chestnut played Dr. John Watson, who solved complex medical cases following the death of his longtime friend Holmes. Even in its later run, the show continued to perform, with its March 22 episode bringing in 3.1 million live same day viewers, according to Nielsen.
Despite that consistency, the series will wrap with its finale airing May 3 at 10 p.m. ET.
DMV Built Momentum As Workplace Comedy
DMV, a workplace comedy centered on employees navigating the chaos of an East Hollywood Department of Motor Vehicles office, also delivered steady numbers in its debut season.
The series starred Tim Meadows alongside Harriet Dyer and Tony Cavalero, focusing on underpaid workers dealing with everyday frustrations and unpredictable customers.
Though it carved out a lane as a relatable, character driven comedy, CBS opted not to renew it beyond its first season. Its final episode is scheduled to air May 11 at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Network Shifts Leave Gap In Black Led Programming
With both Watson and DMV exiting, CBS faces a noticeable gap in Black led scripted programming. The move comes as The Neighborhood, another series centered around Black characters, is already in its final season.
At the same time, the network is doubling down on returning hits and franchise expansions, including FBI, Ghosts, Tracker, Fire Country, and multiple NCIS spinoffs.
CBS has also greenlit a new drama titled Cupertino, starring Mike Colter. The series follows a lawyer battling Silicon Valley power players after being pushed out of a tech startup, marking one of the network’s next attempts to introduce new lead driven storytelling.
What Comes Next For CBS
The cancellations reflect a broader reshuffling of CBS programming as it prioritizes long running franchises and new development.
While Watson and DMV both demonstrated audience appeal and strong ratings their exits highlight the ongoing volatility of network television, particularly for newer shows trying to secure long term footing.
As the next season approaches, attention will shift to whether CBS fills the void with new diverse storytelling or continues leaning heavily on its established lineup.
