Why Shemar Moore Left Criminal Minds: The Real Reason & Morgan's Exit
Why did one of the most beloved characters in Criminal Minds, Derek Morgan, played by Shemar Moore, suddenly disappear from the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU)? The answer, while multifaceted, ultimately boils down to a desire for change and new beginnings, a decision that resonated deeply with both the actor and the character he portrayed.
The departure of Shemar Moore from Criminal Minds in 2016 sent ripples of surprise and sadness through the show's devoted fanbase. Derek Morgan, a staple of the BAU since the series premiere, had become synonymous with strength, charm, and unwavering loyalty. For eleven seasons, Morgan was the heart and soul of the team, a comforting presence amidst the darkness they confronted daily. His connection with Penelope Garcia, played by Kirsten Vangsness, was a highlight, their playful banter and undeniable affection providing much-needed levity in a world often filled with despair. The bond they shared, an emotional intimacy that was incredibly engaging, was a significant factor in why fans were so dismayed by Moore's exit. Furthermore, the character's ability to connect with victims, offering a sense of security and hope, solidified his position as a fan favorite. The departure was so unexpected that fans couldn't help but wonder what had happened to the character and why the actor left the show.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shemar Franklin Moore |
| Born | April 20, 1970 (Oakland, California, USA) |
| Height | 6'1" (1.85 m) |
| Occupation | Actor, Model, Television Host |
| Known For | Criminal Minds (Derek Morgan), S.W.A.T. (Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson) |
| Years Active | 1994 Present |
| Awards | Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series (2000, The Young and the Restless), NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series (2015, Criminal Minds) |
| Notable Roles | The Young and the Restless (Malcolm Winters), Criminal Minds (Derek Morgan), S.W.A.T. (Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson) |
| Link to Authentic Website | IMDb |
The decision to leave wasn't a sudden whim; it was a carefully considered choice. As Moore himself explained, he craved new challenges and opportunities. After eleven seasons portraying the same character, he felt the need to explore different roles and expand his creative horizons. This desire for professional growth aligns with Morgan's own evolution, as the character had, by the end of his tenure, found both professional success and personal fulfillment. However, Moore continued to appear in a guest role in the next three seasons of the show.
Furthermore, Moore's departure wasn't a sign of animosity. Quite the opposite. His exit was handled with respect and appreciation from both the producers and CBS. The sendoff for Derek Morgan was more emotional than those of many other actors, a testament to the impact he had on the show and the positive relationships Moore cultivated during his time on the set. This mutual respect made the transition smoother and allowed for a satisfying conclusion to Morgan's storyline, with his character choosing to leave the BAU to focus on his family, particularly his newborn son. The character's desire to spend time with his family echoed Moore's own personal priorities.
The details of Morgan's exit were thoughtfully crafted. In a poignant storyline, Morgan was given an opportunity to prioritize his family. After years of risking his life and dedicating himself to the BAU, he decided to step back, recognizing the importance of being present for his wife and son. This choice, while difficult for his colleagues and the audience, was ultimately a testament to Morgan's personal growth and the values he held dear. His BFF, Spencer Reid (Matthew Gray Gubler), and his "baby girl," Penelope Garcia (Kirsten Vangsness), supported his decision to leave.
The absence of Shemar Moore from the recent revival series, Criminal Minds: Evolution, has naturally sparked further questions. While he hasnt returned as a series regular, his legacy remains an integral part of the show's history. The door is always open for guest appearances, demonstrating the lasting positive relationship Moore has with the franchise. His character, Derek Morgan, is still among the most popular characters over the show's run. In the series premiere, Morgan is introduced as a supervisory special agent with the FBIs behavioral analysis unit. For the next 11 seasons, Morgan is a source of strength and reliability for a group of people investigating some of the most disturbing crimes imaginable. From day one, Derek Morgan (Shemar Moore) was the charm and muscle at the heart of Criminal Minds. It took eight years for the flirtatious workaholic Morgan to find a steady girlfriend.
Ultimately, Shemar Moore's departure from Criminal Minds was a complex decision driven by both professional ambition and personal desires. He had spent eleven seasons playing a character that was a star for over 10 seasons on the show, and, while difficult for fans, the move allowed him to pursue new opportunities, a decision that resonates with Morgan's journey to find balance and prioritize his loved ones. He wanted to explore new horizons. The way his character left the show and the positive relationship with the show's producers and CBS are a testament to his character on and off screen.
