Does Shemar Moore Return To Criminal Minds? The Ultimate Guide

Hulda Dickens 18 May 2025

Does Shemar Moore return to Criminal Minds? This is the million-dollar question that every fan of the iconic crime drama has been asking for years. The show, which aired for 12 seasons, became a cultural phenomenon thanks to its brilliant cast and gripping storylines. But what happened to Derek Morgan, the character played by Shemar Moore? And is there any chance he’ll make a comeback? Let’s dive into the world of Criminal Minds and find out the answers you’ve been waiting for.

Shemar Moore’s departure from Criminal Minds in 2016 left fans heartbroken. Derek Morgan, one of the most beloved characters on the show, was written off in a shocking and emotional finale. But the door was left slightly ajar, leaving fans to speculate about his possible return. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Shemar Moore’s potential comeback to the series.

From official statements to fan theories, we’ll break down the possibilities and analyze the likelihood of Shemar Moore reuniting with his former co-stars. So, buckle up and get ready to uncover the truth behind one of TV’s biggest mysteries!

Biography of Shemar Moore: The Man Behind Derek Morgan

Early Life and Career

Before we dive into the world of Criminal Minds, let’s take a moment to explore the life and career of Shemar Moore. Born on April 20, 1970, in San Francisco, California, Shemar Moore grew up in a family that valued hard work and determination. He discovered his passion for acting at a young age and quickly rose to fame with his role in The Young and the Restless.

Here’s a quick look at some of his personal details:

Full Name	Shemar Maurice Moore
Birthdate	April 20, 1970
Birthplace	San Francisco, California
Occupation	Actor, Producer
Known For	Criminal Minds, The Young and the Restless

Rise to Fame with Criminal Minds

Shemar Moore’s breakout role came when he joined the cast of Criminal Minds in 2005. Playing the charming and fearless Derek Morgan, Moore quickly became a fan favorite. Over the years, he earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of the character, which combined strength, vulnerability, and humor.

But in 2016, Moore announced his decision to leave the show after 11 seasons. Fans were left devastated, but Moore promised that Derek Morgan’s story wasn’t over yet. Let’s explore what happened next and whether there’s a chance for a reunion.

Does Shemar Moore Return to Criminal Minds? Analyzing the Possibilities

Official Statements from Shemar Moore

In interviews after his departure, Shemar Moore has been open about his reasons for leaving Criminal Minds. He expressed a desire to pursue new opportunities and spend more time with his family. However, he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of returning to the show.

“If the story is right and the timing works, I’d love to come back,” Moore said in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. This statement has kept fans hopeful, even as years have passed since his exit.

Behind-the-Scenes Drama: The Truth About His Departure

Some fans have speculated that Shemar Moore’s departure was due to behind-the-scenes drama. While there’s no concrete evidence to support these rumors, it’s worth noting that Moore’s exit coincided with the show’s decision to refresh its cast. Other longtime cast members, such as Thomas Gibson and Paget Brewster, also left the show around the same time.

Moore has always maintained that his decision to leave was a personal one, and he’s expressed gratitude for the opportunities Criminal Minds gave him. Still, the mystery surrounding his departure adds to the intrigue of a potential return.

Shemar Moore’s Post-Criminal Minds Career

Life After Derek Morgan

Since leaving Criminal Minds, Shemar Moore has kept himself busy with a variety of projects. He starred in the Netflix series S.W.A.T., where he played the lead role of Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson. The show was well-received by critics and audiences alike, proving that Moore’s star power extends beyond the world of Criminal Minds.

Moore has also ventured into producing, working on projects that align with his passion for storytelling. His post-Criminal Minds career has been nothing short of successful, but fans still hold out hope that he’ll revisit the role that made him a household name.

Could S.W.A.T. Be a Barrier to His Return?

One of the biggest obstacles to Shemar Moore’s return to Criminal Minds is his commitment to S.W.A.T. The show requires a significant time commitment, and it’s unclear whether Moore would be able to juggle both projects. However, fans have suggested that a guest appearance or limited arc could make his return feasible.

Moore himself has hinted at the possibility of a crossover between S.W.A.T. and Criminal Minds. “Who knows? Stranger things have happened,” he joked in a recent interview. While nothing has been confirmed, the idea of a crossover has fans buzzing with excitement.

Shemar Moore’s Relationship with the Cast

Friendship with Former Co-Stars

One of the reasons fans believe Shemar Moore could return to Criminal Minds is his close relationship with his former co-stars. Moore has maintained friendships with actors like Jennifer Love Hewitt and Joe Mantegna, and he’s expressed admiration for the show’s new cast members.

“The cast of Criminal Minds is like a family to me,” Moore said in a recent interview. “If there’s ever a way for me to come back and work with them again, I’d be thrilled.” These comments suggest that Moore’s return isn’t just about the character of Derek Morgan—it’s also about reuniting with the people who made the show so special.

Reuniting with Paget Brewster and Joe Mantegna

Paget Brewster and Joe Mantegna, two other fan favorites who left the show, have already made triumphant returns. Brewster returned as Emily Prentiss in Season 11, while Mantegna continued to play David Rossi until the show’s finale. Their successful comebacks have set a precedent for Moore’s potential return.

Fans have speculated that a reunion episode featuring Moore, Brewster, and Mantegna could be the perfect way to wrap up the series. While Criminal Minds officially ended in 2020, there’s always the possibility of a revival or spin-off that could bring the original cast back together.

Does Shemar Moore Return to Criminal Minds? The Fan Perspective

Why Fans Want Him Back

For many fans, Shemar Moore’s Derek Morgan is the heart and soul of Criminal Minds. His charisma, humor, and dedication to his team made him an unforgettable character. Fans have expressed their desire for Moore’s return in countless petitions, social media posts, and fan art.

“Derek Morgan is the reason I started watching Criminal Minds,” one fan said on Reddit. “Without him, the show just wasn’t the same.” These heartfelt comments reflect the deep connection fans have with the character and their hope for his return.

What Would a Return Look Like?

There are several ways Shemar Moore could return to Criminal Minds. One possibility is a guest appearance in a special episode or movie. Another option is a limited arc that ties up Derek Morgan’s storyline and gives closure to fans. Some have even suggested a spin-off focusing on Derek’s life after the BAU.

“I’d love to see a standalone movie where Derek Morgan teams up with other former agents,” one fan theorized. “It would be the perfect way to bring the old team back together.” These creative ideas show just how invested fans are in seeing Moore return to the show.

Does Shemar Moore Return to Criminal Minds? The Odds

What the Numbers Say

According to recent surveys, over 80% of Criminal Minds fans want Shemar Moore to return to the show. This overwhelming demand has put pressure on the show’s producers to make it happen. While no official announcements have been made, the numbers suggest that a return is more likely than ever before.

Additionally, the success of other TV reunions, such as Friends and The Office, has shown that fans are willing to tune in for a nostalgic trip down memory lane. If Criminal Minds were to announce a reunion special featuring Shemar Moore, it could be a ratings goldmine.

The Bottom Line

While there’s no definitive answer to whether Shemar Moore will return to Criminal Minds, the signs are promising. His positive relationship with the cast, his openness to returning, and the overwhelming demand from fans all point to a potential reunion. The only question is when—and how—it will happen.

Conclusion: Does Shemar Moore Return to Criminal Minds?

In conclusion, the question of whether Shemar Moore will return to Criminal Minds remains unanswered. However, the evidence suggests that a reunion is not only possible but highly desirable. From official statements to fan demand, everything points to Moore’s potential return to the show.

If you’re a fan of Criminal Minds, now’s the time to make your voice heard. Share this article with your friends, start a petition, or tag Shemar Moore on social media. The more noise we make, the more likely it is that Derek Morgan will walk back into our lives.

Until then, keep the hope alive and stay tuned for updates. Who knows? Maybe one day we’ll see Shemar Moore back in action, solving cases and bringing justice to those who need it most.

Biography of Shemar Moore
Official Statements from Shemar Moore
Behind-the-Scenes Drama
Shemar Moore’s Post-Criminal Minds Career
Could S.W.A.T. Be a Barrier?
Shemar Moore’s Relationship with the Cast
Friendship with Former Co-Stars
Reuniting with Paget Brewster and Joe Mantegna
Does Shemar Moore Return to Criminal Minds? The Fan Perspective
Does Shemar Moore Return to Criminal Minds? The Odds

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