What Happened to Morgan from Criminal Minds?
The popular CBS television series "Criminal Minds" aired for 15 seasons, captivating audiences with its gripping storylines and intricate character development. One of the most iconic and beloved characters in the show is Dr. Spencer Reid, played by Matthew Gray Gubler, and his partner, FBI Special Agent Derek Morgan, played by Shemar Moore. While Dr. Reid has remained a consistent part of the show since its inception, Morgan’s fate was left uncertain until recently. In this article, we’ll delve into what happened to Morgan and provide a comprehensive overview of his storyline.
Early Years and Character Development
Derek Morgan was introduced in the show’s fourth season, and his presence was immediate. As an FBI Special Agent, he was tasked with leading the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) team, led by Supervisory Special Agent Aaron Hotchner (Thomas Gibson). Morgan’s backstory revealed that he was an expert marksman and skilled in martial arts, skills he developed during his days as a professional basketball player. He was also fiercely loyal to his team and had a strong sense of justice, which often put him at odds with those who compromised the law.
Leaving the Show
Shemar Moore’s decision to leave the show after 11 seasons was met with sadness and shock from fans. Moore’s contract expired, and he declined to renew, opting to pursue other opportunities. In an interview, Moore revealed that he wanted to take a break from the demanding schedule of playing an FBI agent and spend more time with his family. The show’s creators were understanding of his decision, and the storyline was planned accordingly.
Morgan’s Departure: A Bittersweet Farewell
Morgan’s final episode, "Internal Affairs", aired on February 2, 2017. The episode saw Morgan deciding to leave the BAU to work as a Private Investigator in Los Angeles. The episode culminated with Morgan’s farewell, leaving his team emotional and somber. Fans were left wondering about Morgan’s future, hoping that his character would one day return.
Flash-Forward: Morgan’s Life After the BAU
While Morgan’s story arc ended on the show, fans were provided with a glimpse of Morgan’s life after the BAU through a series of flash-forward scenes. In the final season of the show, Morgan appeared in various episodes, hinting at his new life as a Private Investigator. These scenes showed Morgan settling into his new career, facing new challenges, and reflecting on his past experiences as an FBI agent.
Table: Morgan’s Post-BAU Life
| Year | Event | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Leaves the BAU | Morgan decides to leave the FBI to work as a Private Investigator |
| 2019 | Opens Private Investigation Firm | Morgan starts his own agency, handling cases in Los Angeles |
| 2020 | Solves Case with Prentiss | Morgan partners with Emily Prentiss to solve a complex case |
Post-Show Career and Controversy
Shemar Moore has continued to work in the entertainment industry, taking on various projects, including films and TV shows. However, he faced controversy in 2020 when he was involved in a public feud with former co-star, Matthew Gray Gubler. The two actors have since resolved their differences and continue to maintain a positive relationship.
Conclusion
The departure of Derek Morgan from Criminal Minds was a significant blow to fans, who had grown attached to his character. Shemar Moore’s decision to leave the show was well-received by the cast and crew, who praised his commitment to his craft. While Morgan’s story may have concluded, his impact on the show and its fans will always be remembered. As the BAU team continues to evolve, fans can’t help but wonder what lies ahead for Morgan, knowing that his character will always be part of the show’s legacy.
Bullet Points Recap
- Shemar Moore’s decision to leave the show after 11 seasons
- Morgan’s final episode, "Internal Affairs," aired on February 2, 2017
- Flash-forward scenes showed Morgan’s life after the BAU
- Morgan started his own Private Investigation firm
- Solved cases, including one with Emily Prentiss
- Controversy involving Matthew Gray Gubler
- Shemar Moore’s post-show career and TV appearances
