CBS Drops 'Watson' and 'DMV' From Programming Slate
Entertainment

CBS Drops 'Watson' and 'DMV' From Programming Slate

authorBy Guillermo del Toro
DateMar 27, 2026
Read time2 min
CBS has announced the discontinuation of two television series, 'Watson' and 'DMV,' as the network solidifies its programming lineup for the upcoming season.

A Shift in CBS Programming: Two Shows Depart, Others Renewed

"Watson" Concludes Its Run: A Sherlockian Medical Mystery's End

The medical drama "Watson," which offered a unique twist on the classic Sherlock Holmes narratives, has been canceled by CBS after its second season. The show featured Dr. John Watson, portrayed by Morris Chestnut, leading a clinic for rare disorders and solving new medical puzzles in the wake of Sherlock Holmes's passing.

"DMV" Drives Off Air: One Season for the Workplace Comedy

Alongside "Watson," the workplace comedy "DMV" also received a cancellation notice, concluding after just one season. This series depicted the everyday struggles and personal dramas of underpaid East Hollywood DMV employees, including characters played by Harriet Dyer, Tim Meadows, and Tony Cavalero, as they interacted with a constantly frustrated public.

The Production Journey of "Watson": From Debut to Renewal and Cancellation

"Watson," a production of CBS Studios, first aired in January 2025. Following a successful initial run, the series secured a renewal for a second season in March 2025. Craig Sweeny, the showrunner, served as an executive producer alongside Morris Chestnut and other team members. Despite its early promise, the second season's episode titled "Wrongful Life" attracted 3.1 million viewers in its live-plus-same-day ratings.

"DMV"s Brief Stint: A Comedy's Rise and Fall

The comedy "DMV" also originated from CBS Studios and received a full series order in April 2025, subsequently earning a full-season pickup later that year. Dana Klein, the showrunner, executive produced the series with Matt Kuhn, Aaron Kaplan, Wendi Trilling, Robyn Meisinger, and Trent O'Donnell. A March 16 episode, "Test Drive," garnered 2.8 million live viewers.

CBS's Future Slate: Focusing on Established Hits and New Ventures

These cancellations are part of CBS's broader strategy for its 2026-2027 season, which includes numerous renewals. The network is moving forward with fan favorites such as "CIA," "Tracker," "Matlock," "Elsbeth," "Fire Country," the "NCIS" franchise (including "NCIS," "NCIS: Origins," and "NCIS Sydney"), "Boston Blue," "Sheriff Country," "FBI," "Ghosts," "Survivor," and "The Amazing Race," alongside "Marshals" and "George & Mandy's First Marriage."

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