What Happened to Hotch in Criminal Minds?
Introduction
Dr. Spencer Reid, Aaron Hotchner, and Penelope Garcia are just a few of the iconic characters in the popular TV series Criminal Minds. Among the original characters, Aaron Hotchner, played by Joe Mantegna, is one of the most beloved and respected. For 11 seasons, Hotch was the leader of the BAU (Behavioral Analysis Unit) and the heart of the show. So, what happened to Hotch in Criminal Minds?
The Last Scene
The last time Hotch appeared on-screen was in the season 12 premiere, "Epilogue". In this episode, Hotch had left the BAU to be with his family and start a new life. His departure was unexpected and left fans wondering why the show’s main character was leaving.
Backstory
Before his departure, Hotch’s storyline revolved around his struggles with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and his complicated family life. His wife Haley and daughter Jack were severely injured in a car accident, and Hotch became the primary caregiver. As the series progressed, Hotch’s family struggles became a significant part of his character development.
Why Did Hotch Leave the BAU?
Hotch’s decision to leave the BAU was a result of his love for his family and the need to prioritize their well-being. After years of working in the intense and demanding field of behavioral analysis, Hotch felt burned out and exhausted. The stress of the job, combined with his family’s health issues, made it difficult for him to continue in his role as the leader of the BAU.
Conclusion
Aaron Hotchner, also known as Hotch, left the BAU to focus on his family and start a new life. His departure was a significant moment in the series, and fans were sad to see him go. The show’s creator, Jeff Davis, revealed that the decision to have Hotch leave was due to the character’s mental health struggles and the impact it had on his personal life. Hotch’s storyline may have concluded, but his legacy remains an integral part of the Criminal Minds universe.
Key Takeaways
• Hotch left the BAU to be with his family and start a new life.
• His family struggles, including his wife’s and daughter’s health issues, played a significant role in his decision.
• Hotch’s mental health struggles, including PTSD, contributed to his decision to leave the BAU.
• The show’s creator, Jeff Davis, confirmed that Hotch’s departure was due to the character’s mental health struggles.
Timeline of Hotch’s Storyline
| Episode | Title | Airdate | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.01 | "Killer App" | 9/21/2005 | Introduces Aaron Hotchner as the leader of the BAU |
| 12.01 | "Epilogue" | 9/28/2016 | Hotch leaves the BAU to be with his family |
Other Notable Episodes Featuring Hotch
| Episode | Title | Airdate | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.20 | "A Dark Day" | 5/10/2006 | Hotch is involved in a car accident that injures his family |
| 5.01 | "Haunted" | 9/23/2009 | Hotch’s family is terrorized by a serial killer |
| 9.18 | "Angel of Death" | 4/9/2014 | Hotch’s family struggles with the aftermath of their injuries |
Conclusion
Aaron Hotchner, a beloved character in the popular TV series Criminal Minds, left the BAU to focus on his family and start a new life. His storyline was a testament to the show’s exploration of real-life issues, such as mental health and family struggles. While his departure was unexpected, it provided a sense of closure for the character and a new direction for the show.
