With Criminal Minds: Evolution currently in production for its third season, fans are eagerly anticipating the return of beloved characters from the Behavioral Analysis Unit. However, one notable absence may be Shemar Moore, who played Agent Derek Morgan. His ongoing commitment to S.W.A.T. makes his appearance unlikely, but we can’t help but hope!
Moore has been a fan favorite since the pilot of Criminal Minds, leaving the show in season 11 to focus on family after the birth of his son. Although he made a few guest appearances afterward, his busy schedule with S.W.A.T. has kept him from returning full-time. The series faced cancellation after its sixth season but was later renewed for a final seventh season and then unexpectedly picked up for an eighth, which complicates any chance of Moore reprising his role.
That said, the idea of Morgan making even a brief cameo, perhaps catching up with Penelope Garcia, is something many fans would love to see. Moore has expressed openness to returning if the opportunity arises, but it remains uncertain whether his schedule would allow for it.
As Criminal Minds: Evolution continues to explore the aftermath of a cyber network of serial killers, it would be exciting to see Morgan back in action. The current cast includes Joe Mantegna, Paget Brewster, A.J. Cook, Aisha Tyler, Adam Rodriguez, Kirsten Vangsness, and Ryan-James Hatanaka, but fans are also hopeful for appearances from Matthew Gray Gubler and Daniel Henney, who have yet to reprise their roles as Dr. Spencer Reid and Matthew Simmons.
While we might not see Moore in season 3, the door is always open for potential surprises. Criminal Minds: Evolution is available to stream on Paramount+, so fans can enjoy the latest developments in the BAU’s world!