The CW has officially renewed its hit young adult drama All American for an eighth and final season, consisting of 13 episodes set to air in 2026. The announcement comes just weeks after Season 7 ended on a dramatic cliffhanger on May 5, leaving the future of the Baker family hanging in the balance.
The long-running series, created by Nkechi Okoro Carroll and inspired by the life of NFL player Spencer Paysinger, has cemented its legacy as one of The CW’s most impactful and enduring shows. Since its debut, All American has not only gained a loyal fan base but also dominated viewership charts among key demographics.
“My heart is so filled with love and gratitude for everyone who helped bring All American to life and kept it going for its historic run,” Carroll said. “We are so excited we get to end it on our own terms with a final season that fulfills our vision.”
A Show That Defined a Generation
All American has consistently resonated with audiences, becoming The CW’s No. 1 primetime entertainment program among adults aged 18-49 and 25-54, and the top-performing series on The CW app. With its final season, the show will achieve a milestone of eight seasons and 132 episodes, a rare feat in modern network television.
“All American is one of the greatest CW shows of all time,” said CW Network President Brad Schwartz. “This final season will give fans the goodbye they deserve.”
Season 7 saw a significant transformation. The departure of original cast members—including Daniel Ezra, who portrayed Spencer James—opened the door for a fresh generation of characters. Ezra’s storyline concluded on a triumphant note: Spencer makes it to the NFL, wins the Super Bowl, and gets married, completing his character arc in a fulfilling way.
New Faces, Fresh Stories
While some fan favorites like Michael Evans Behling, Greta Onieogou, and Bre-Z returned, Season 7 introduced new characters portrayed by Osy Ikhile and Nathaniel McIntyre, with Antonio J. Bell and Alexis Chikaeze promoted to series regulars. These new additions brought renewed energy to the series, exploring high-stakes drama centered around Beverly Hills High and South Crenshaw High.
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Season 7 positioned these characters at the forefront, revealing complex connections to the Baker family and laying the groundwork for even more emotional depth and narrative twists in the upcoming final chapter.
A Legacy of Inspiration
From the beginning, All American has been more than just a sports drama—it’s a celebration of ambition, identity, and community. The show’s central message, embodied in Spencer James’s mantra, “Dream Big. Stay Real,” has inspired countless viewers to chase their goals despite the odds.
“We see you. We salute you. Here’s to leaving it all on the field one last time,” Carroll concluded.
Produced by Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Studios, All American will return for one last emotional, inspiring, and unforgettable season.
