What Happened to Morgan on Criminal Minds?
Criminal Minds, the popular crime drama TV series, aired for 15 seasons, captivating audiences worldwide with its gripping storylines and complex characters. One of the most iconic characters, Derek Morgan, played by Shemar Moore, left the show after season 11. In this article, we’ll explore what happened to Morgan on Criminal Minds.
Who is Derek Morgan?
Before we dive into his departure, let’s take a brief look at Derek Morgan’s character. Morgan is a Supervisory Special Agent with the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). He’s a highly skilled profiler and an expert in tactical operations. Throughout the series, Morgan becomes an integral part of the team, known for his charisma, bravery, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Why Did Morgan Leave the Show?
After 11 seasons, Shemar Moore announced his departure from the show, leaving fans wondering what would happen to Morgan. The exact reason for his exit is still unclear, but Moore has stated that he had reached a point where he felt he’d exhausted the character’s potential. In an interview with TVLine, Moore said:
"I’ve been doing this for 11 years, and I feel like I’ve taken this character as far as I can… I’m 48 years old, and I’ve been doing this for a long time. I feel like I’ve done a good job, and it’s time for me to move on."
Morgan’s Final Episode:
Morgan’s final episode, "Synchrony" (Season 11, Episode 14), aired on March 1, 2016. The episode marks a significant turning point for the character, as he leaves the BAU to start a new chapter in his life. Morgan’s departure is a result of his decision to pursue a new career path, prioritizing his personal life and well-being.
Morgan’s Farewell
Morgan’s farewell was an emotional moment for the fans and the characters on the show. The episode shows Morgan saying goodbye to his colleagues, expressing his gratitude for the experiences and relationships he’s built. The team gathers to bid him farewell, acknowledging the impact Morgan has had on the BAU.
Table: Morgan’s Final Episode Stats
| Episode Title | Season | Episode Number | Air Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synchrony | 11 | 14 | March 1, 2016 |
What Happened to Morgan After the Show?
After leaving Criminal Minds, Shemar Moore pursued various projects, including film roles and hosting duties. In 2018, he starred in the film "Unfinished Business", alongside Bryan Callen. Moore has also made appearances on other TV shows, such as "NCIS: Los Angeles" and **"Star".
Did Morgan Return to the Show?
As of now, there is no indication that Morgan will return to the show. The character’s storyline has been wrapped up, and the focus has shifted to the remaining members of the BAU team. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, showrunner Erica Messer stated:
"We had a great conversation with Shemar about what was important to him, and he wanted to go out on a high note… We wanted to make sure that Morgan’s exit was significant and meaningful, and that the audience would feel satisfied with the story we told."
Conclusion
Derek Morgan’s departure from Criminal Minds was a significant event in the show’s history. Moore’s character will always be remembered as an integral part of the BAU team, and his impact on the show will continue to be felt. Although Morgan’s storyline has come to a close, his legacy lives on through the many episodes he appeared in, and the relationships he built with his colleagues.
