Why Did Derek Leave Criminal Minds?
Introduction
Criminal Minds is a popular American television series that premiered in 2005 and has been entertaining audiences for over 15 years. The show follows a team of FBI agents as they investigate and solve heinous crimes across the United States. One of the original cast members, Shemar Moore, who played the role of Derek Morgan, left the show after 11 seasons. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind his departure.
Derek Morgan’s Character Development
Derek Morgan, played by Shemar Moore, was a fan favorite on the show. He was a highly skilled FBI agent and a member of the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). Throughout his time on the show, Derek’s character underwent significant development, from being a relatively new agent to becoming a seasoned veteran. His personality, skills, and relationships with his colleagues made him a beloved character among fans.
Shemar Moore’s Decision to Leave
In 2016, Shemar Moore announced that he would be leaving Criminal Minds after 11 seasons. Moore stated that he had made the decision to leave the show to pursue other projects and to focus on his personal life. Moore cited burnout as a major factor in his decision, stating that the grueling shooting schedule and the intense emotional demands of playing Derek Morgan had taken a toll on him.
The Departure of Derek Morgan
Derek Morgan’s departure from the show was a significant blow to fans, who had grown attached to the character. The show’s writers addressed his departure by introducing a storyline where Derek left the BAU to take care of his ailing mother. This allowed for a sense of closure for the character, and his departure was handled in a respectful and dignified manner.
Table: Character Departures on Criminal Minds
| Character | Departure Reason | Season(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Derek Morgan | Left the BAU to care for his mother | 11 |
| Jennifer "JJ" Jareau | Transferred to the FBI’s Public Affairs Office | 5-7 |
| Aaron Hotchner | Took a leave of absence and later left the BAU | 8-10 |
| Emily Prentiss | Returned to Russia to take care of her son | 9 |
| Alex Blake | Fired from the BAU for her poor performance | 9 |
Impact of Derek’s Departure on the Show
Derek’s departure had a significant impact on the show, both in terms of character dynamics and the overall direction of the storylines. The absence of Derek Morgan was felt throughout the rest of the series, and his character was missed by fans. The show’s writers did an excellent job of integrating new characters and storylines, but the void left by Derek’s departure was never fully filled.
Conclusion
Shemar Moore’s decision to leave Criminal Minds was a difficult one, but ultimately, it allowed him to pursue other opportunities and focus on his personal life. Derek Morgan’s departure from the show was handled in a respectful manner, and his character was given a sense of closure. The impact of his departure was felt throughout the rest of the series, but the show continued to thrive, and fans remain loyal to this day.
Additional Information
- Shemar Moore went on to star in his own show, S.W.A.T., which premiered in 2017.
- Moore has also appeared in various TV shows and movies, including The Young and the Restless, Chicago Med, and The Bachelorette.
- Despite his departure from Criminal Minds, Moore has expressed his gratitude to the show and its fans, stating that his time on the show was a "life-changing experience."
