Why Did Derek Morgan Leave Criminal Minds?
For nine seasons, Derek Morgan, played by actor Derek Morgan, was a prominent character on the hit crime drama TV series "Criminal Minds". However, in the season 10 finale, Morgan’s exit from the show left fans wondering why the character chose to leave. In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons behind his departure and explore the context surrounding his departure.
Contents
Reasons Behind Derek Morgan’s Departure
It was announced in May 2016 that Paget Brewster, another main cast member, and A.J. Cook, who played Emily Prentiss, would return to the show for Season 11. However, Shemar Moore, who played Derek Morgan, would not be back. The reason for Moore’s departure was not solely due to creative decisions. In an interview with ABC News, Moore revealed that he had decided to leave the show to spend more time with his daughters.
Moore shares two daughters, Havana and Peyton, with ex-girlfriend Brangette Nova, a model and actress. Since the show’s inception in 2005, Moore had been a mainstay, and his character played a significant role in the team’s dynamics. He was an original cast member and had been with the show for over a decade. His departure was bound to have an impact on the show and its storylines.
Data Analysis: Derek Morgan’s Character Development
To better understand Moore’s decision, let’s take a closer look at Derek Morgan’s character development throughout the series. When Moore first joined the cast, Morgan was portrayed as a confident and charming senior FBI agent. Over time, his character evolved, and he became more sensitive and emotionally vulnerable.
Some notable moments that showcased his growth include:
• The Fight with JJ: Morgan’s intense battle with Dr. Reid in Season 4, "TheFight" (S4 E11), was a crucial moment in his character’s development. The fight had a profound impact on their relationship and led to an increased sense of vulnerability around Morgan.
• Derek’s PTSD: In Season 5, "Derek" (S5 E14), Morgan experiences PTSD symptoms after a violent encounter. This storyline deepened his character and brought a new layer of authenticity to his portrayal.
• Morgan’s Breakdown: In Season 8, "Angels" (S8 E01), Morgan is pushed to his limits after a group of angels of death threaten his team. His emotional meltdown was a pivotal moment that highlighted his humanity.
Table: Derek Morgan’s Evolution
Character Traits | Early Seasons | Later Seasons |
---|---|---|
Confident | Yes | Somewhat |
Charming | Yes | Somewhat |
Emotionally Vulnerable | No | Yes |
Sensitive | No | Yes |
This table illustrates Morgan’s development from a confident and charming character to a more emotional and vulnerable one. It’s clear that his storyline took a dramatic turn after his fight with JJ and his PTSD experience.
Conclusion
Shemar Moore’s decision to leave "Criminal Minds" was a result of wanting to spend more time with his daughters. His departure marked a significant change for the show, and it’s clear that his absence was felt. The team at "Criminal Minds" did an excellent job of integrating new characters and storylines while still honoring Moore’s presence on the show.
Even though Derek Morgan is no longer part of the "Criminal Minds" squad, his legacy lives on. His character’s impact on the show is undeniable, and his performances will always be remembered by fans.