What Episode Does Derek Leave Criminal Minds?
Introduction
Criminal Minds is a popular American police procedural crime drama television series that aired from 2005 to 2020. The show follows a team of FBI agents known as the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) as they investigate and analyze various crimes across the United States. One of the original members of the team was Detective Derek Morgan, played by actor Shemar Moore. Derek Morgan was a main character for the first 11 seasons of the show, until his departure in 2017.
Why Did Derek Leave Criminal Minds?
Derek Morgan left the show at the end of Season 11. In the final episode of Season 11, "Immortal", Morgan is seen retiring from the BAU due to a serious concussion he sustained during a kidnapping case. Shemar Moore decided to leave the show in order to pursue other creative projects, including his passion for dance and entertainment. In an interview with People Magazine, Moore said that he felt it was the right time for him to move on from the show, but he would always cherish the memories he made as part of the BAU team.
Conclusion of Season 11
The finale of Season 11, "Immortal", shows Morgan being confronted by the kidnapper who had been targeting the team. Morgan sustains a severe concussion and is hospitalized. His colleagues and friends, particularly his best friend, Agent Penelope Garcia, struggle to come to terms with the possibility of losing Morgan. Ultimately, Morgan decides to retire from the BAU to avoid putting anyone else at risk and to focus on his own health and well-being.
Table: Main Characters in Criminal Minds (Seasons 1-11)
| Character | Portrayed by | Years on Show | Reason for Leaving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Derek Morgan | Shemar Moore | 2005-2017 | Retirement (Season 11) |
Legacy of Derek Morgan
Despite leaving the show, Derek Morgan’s impact on the series and his colleagues continues to be felt. The character of Morgan was an integral part of the team, known for his sharp instincts, impressive physical abilities, and quick thinking in high-pressure situations. His absence was felt throughout the later seasons of the show, with many characters paying tribute to his contributions and bravery. Moore has made several guest appearances throughout the series, allowing his character to have a lasting presence in the show.
Bulleted List of Key Episodes Featuring Derek Morgan
- "Pilot" (Season 1, Episode 1): Morgan is introduced as an FBI Agent and joins the BAU team.
- "Hotch Springs" (Season 4, Episode 15): Morgan’s troubled past is explored in a flashback episode.
- "Lauren" (Season 7, Episode 15): Morgan’s loyalty to the team is tested when he goes against protocol to save his former love, Lauren, who is still alive despite having been thought to have been killed.
Conclusion
Derek Morgan left Criminal Minds at the end of Season 11, bringing an end to an exciting and intense chapter in the show’s history. While his departure was met with sadness from fans, his character’s impact on the series will be remembered for years to come. As a founding member of the BAU team, Derek Morgan played a significant role in shaping the show and will always be cherished as a fan favorite.
