Derek Morgan’s Return to Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 3 Looks Unlikely Due to Shemar Moore’s Busy Schedule
As Criminal Minds: Evolution continues its run on Paramount+, fans are eagerly hoping for the return of original cast members, particularly Shemar Moore as Derek Morgan. However, it appears that Moore’s involvement in the series’ third season may be difficult due to his commitments to another show.
Criminal Minds: Evolution, a revival of the beloved CBS crime drama, has successfully brought back several original actors since its premiere. However, Shemar Moore has not returned to reprise his iconic role. Production for season 3 began in August 2024, and while Paramount+ has yet to announce a release date, many speculate it will air in 2025.
The second season of Criminal Minds: Evolution left fans with numerous unanswered questions, such as the fate of the character Voit following a dramatic prison attack. Fortunately, the show was renewed for a third season prior to the season 2 finale, ensuring fans won’t be left hanging. Characters like Emily Prentiss, David Rossi, Jennifer “JJ” Jareau, and Penelope Garcia are all expected to return, but the absence of Moore and Matthew Gray Gubler is keenly felt by some viewers.
Shemar Moore’s Commitment to SWAT Impedes Return
One major factor preventing Moore from returning to Criminal Minds: Evolution is his leading role in CBS’s SWAT. Moore has expressed his willingness to reprise his role as Derek Morgan, yet he hasn’t been approached to do so, largely because SWAT demands most of his time. With several cast members leaving SWAT ahead of its upcoming eighth season, the show needs Moore now more than ever.
Since SWAT premiered in 2017, Moore has portrayed Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, becoming the face of the series. His ongoing commitment is crucial not only because of his central role but also due to the shrinking original cast.
The recent cast exits from SWAT suggest that CBS is likely to retain Moore’s services, further complicating any potential crossover with Criminal Minds: Evolution.
The Importance of Derek Morgan’s Return
Although Moore has been absent from Criminal Minds since his brief return for the season 12 finale and season 13, episode 5, his character remains a significant part of the franchise’s legacy. Derek Morgan was a key player in the original series, and his absence has been deeply felt by fans.
Bringing Morgan back in future seasons of Criminal Minds: Evolution could enrich the narrative, especially considering his strong bond with Penelope Garcia, one of the series’ most beloved friendships. Fans continue to hope for a reunion between these characters, which would add depth to the evolving storyline of the revival.
As it stands, while the future may hold possibilities, Shemar Moore’s busy schedule with SWAT makes his return to Criminal Minds: Evolution in season 3 highly unlikely. Fans will have to wait and see how the show’s creators navigate these challenges as they move forward.
