What Episode of Criminal Minds Does Derek Leave?
The popular American crime drama television series, Criminal Minds, has been entertaining audiences for over 15 years. The show follows a team of FBI agents, known as the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU), as they investigate and solve crimes across the United States. One of the original characters, Derek Morgan, played by actor Shemar Moore, left the show after a long and successful run. In this article, we’ll explore the episode where Derek leaves the BAU.
Derek Morgan’s Character
Derek Morgan, a former college football player, joined the BAU in 2005 as a special agent. He was a skilled profiler and a valuable member of the team. Throughout his time on the show, Derek was known for his charisma, intelligence, and physical skills. He was often the team’s "tough guy" and was not afraid to take risks to get the job done.
Derek’s Departure
After 11 seasons on the show, Shemar Moore announced that he would be leaving Criminal Minds. The decision was made to write out Derek’s character, and his departure was a significant plot point in the show. The episode where Derek leaves the BAU is Season 11, Episode 20, titled "A Dark Day".
A Dark Day (Season 11, Episode 20)
In this episode, the BAU is dealing with a crisis when a group of rogue FBI agents takes over the BAU’s headquarters. The team is forced to go into hiding, and Derek is shot and critically injured during the takeover. As the team works to take down the rogue agents and free their hostages, Derek is rushed to the hospital.
The Emotional Goodbye
The episode is an emotional one, as the team says goodbye to Derek. His colleagues are devastated by his departure, and the team is left to cope with the loss of their friend and colleague. The episode features a series of flashbacks, showcasing some of the most memorable moments from Derek’s time on the show.
Table: Derek’s Time on Criminal Minds
Season | Episodes | Notable Moments |
---|---|---|
1-3 | 33 | Joining the BAU, profiling serial killers, and working with the team |
4-5 | 22 | Dealing with personal struggles, including a traumatic event in his past |
6-7 | 22 | Developing his skills as a profiler, working with new team members |
8-11 | 24 | Taking on leadership roles, dealing with the consequences of his actions |
Conclusion
Derek Morgan’s departure from Criminal Minds was a significant moment in the show’s history. The episode "A Dark Day" is a powerful and emotional goodbye to a beloved character. Shemar Moore’s departure marked the end of an era for the show, but the legacy of Derek Morgan lives on.