When Does Shemar Moore Leave Criminal Minds?
Shemar Moore’s departure from the hit TV show Criminal Minds is a topic that has sparked a lot of debate among fans. After a decade of playing the role of Derek Morgan, the tough and charismatic FBI Agent, Shemar Moore bid adieu to the show in 2017. But when exactly did he leave? And why? Let’s dive into the details.
Shemar Moore’s Departure in 2017
On May 7, 2017, CBS announced that Shemar Moore would be leaving Criminal Minds after a successful nine-season run. The news was met with shock and disappointment from fans, who were devastated to see Morgan leave the show.
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Why Did Shemar Moore Leave Criminal Minds?
The reasons behind Shemar Moore’s departure are somewhat complex. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Moore revealed that he decided to leave the show because he wanted to focus on his other passions and interests.
"I want to do some other things that I’ve been wanting to do for a long time… I want to explore some other characters, explore some other stories, and work with some other talented people," Moore said.
Moore also revealed that he was getting older and felt that it was time for him to move on from the show.
"I’m not getting any younger, and I want to do some things that are gonna keep me excited and engaged, and I want to explore some other things that are gonna keep me feeling fulfilled and challenged," he said.
When Did Shemar Moore Leave Criminal Minds?
Shemar Moore’s final episode as Derek Morgan aired on April 5, 2017, in the Season 12 episode titled "Inner Beauty." The episode marked a significant moment for the character, as Morgan says goodbye to his colleagues and friends at the BAU before leaving to start a new chapter in his life.
"I love that episode," Moore said in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. "It was a really powerful moment for me, because it was the last time I got to play that character, and I was so grateful to have that kind of closure."
How Did the Show Handle Shemar Moore’s Departure?
Criminal Minds handled Shemar Moore’s departure by addressing his character’s departure in a few episodes following his exit. In the episodes "Master of Darkness" and "Unsubstood," Morgan’s departure from the team was explored, and the impact it had on the remaining characters was shown.
Table: Key Episodes and Plot Points for Shemar Moore’s Departure
| Episode Title | Air Date | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|
| Inner Beauty | April 5, 2017 | Morgan says goodbye to his colleagues and friends at the BAU before leaving to start a new chapter in his life. |
| Master of Darkness | April 19, 2017 | The team struggles to cope with Morgan’s departure and the loss of his guidance. |
| Unsubstood | May 3, 2017 | The team investigates a serial killer who is using technology to evade capture, and Morgan’s departure is revisited. |
Conclusion
Shemar Moore’s departure from Criminal Minds was a significant moment in the show’s history, and his character’s goodbye was a poignant moment for fans. While Moore’s reasons for leaving were not entirely clear at the time, it was clear that he wanted to move on to new challenges and pursue other passions. As fans, we can appreciate the impact that Morgan had on the show and the memorable moments he brought to the screen.
