Here’s what Paget Brewster has shared about the possibility of Shemar Moore returning to Criminal Minds: Evolution, highlighting their close friendship and what might finally bring Derek Morgan back to the BAU:
🔄 Paget Brewster on Shemar Moore’s Criminal Minds Return
Paget Brewster (Emily Prentiss) recently opened up about Shemar Moore and the lingering question: Could Derek Morgan return?
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Brewster described Moore as a true friend, noting how he reached out with support—even sending a congratulatory text when Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 billboard went up. She called their bond enduring and said his return would be a “dream come true” for both fans and cast alike.Wikipedia+15Dailygossip+15Looper+15
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Despite busy schedules and Moore’s commitment to S.W.A.T., Brewster seemed hopeful that with the right timing—or an invitation—Morgan could make an appearance. TV Insider+3Dailygossip+3Dailygossip+3
💬 Shemar Moore’s Own Words 📡
Moore has publicly said he’ll return if invited:
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In a 2024 interview, he confirmed:
“All I need is an invitation.”
Without The Young and the Restless, there’s no Criminal Minds… without Criminal Minds, no S.W.A.T.Moore made it clear he values the CAM family and would make time if asked. The Sun+6TV Insider+6Reddit+6 -
He emphasized the whirlwind of his schedule but also acknowledged a willingness to revisit Derek Morgan under the right circumstances. TV Insider+15TV Insider+15Looper+15
🧩 Scheduling Challenges & Showrunner Insight
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Criminal Minds: Evolution has welcomed back most original characters for the revival, but Morgan hasn’t appeared yet. Scheduling conflicts—particularly Moore’s S.W.A.T. Exiles commitments—are widely cited as the main barrier. EW.com+4People.com+4Cinemablend+4
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Showrunner Erica Messer has confirmed difficulties only in securing guest stars like Moore due to availability issues, while noting that characters like Reid and Morgan remain beloved parts of the BAU universe.Reddit+6Cinemablend+6EW.com+6
📌 Why This Matters
| Factor | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Legacy & Chemistry | Morgan and Prentiss had an emotional best-friendship dynamic that resonated deeply with fans and Brewster herself. |
| Fan Hope | Brewster supports the idea publicly; together with Moore’s openness, there’s genuine anticipation. |
| Logistical Realities | Moore’s lead role in S.W.A.T. and the upcoming spin-off limit availability—but may free up if S.W.A.T. concludes. |
| Narrative Potential | Evolution’s Season 3 introduces serialized threats and emotional arcs—perfect for a short guest turn by Morgan.EW.com+15Parade+15Dailygossip+15Looper+2Dailygossip+2Dailygossip+2Looper+2Cinemablend+2Reddit+2Dailygossip+4Entertainment Tonight+4Entertainment Tonight+4 |
✅ Final Take
Paget Brewster genuinely hopes for Morgan’s return, and Shemar Moore has stated he’ll come back if invited. Scheduling remains the sticking point, but with S.W.A.T. Exiles wrapping or winding down in 2025–2026, the stars may align. Erica Messer’s statements suggest they’re open to guest appearances — so for now, it’s all about timing.
🌟 FAQs
Q1: Has Shemar Moore officially returned to Criminal Minds: Evolution?
Not yet. No guest appearances have been confirmed, though he hasn’t ruled them out.Dailygossip+11Cinemablend+11Dailygossip+11
Q2: What has Paget Brewster said about his return?
She celebrated their ongoing friendship, revealed Moore supported her career moves, and called his return a dream for fan and cast alike. Dailygossip
Q3: What does Erica Messer say about guest returns?
She confirmed that scheduling is the main obstacle—and that while tough, opportunities for returning stars may still arise.Reddit
Q4: Could Morgan show up in Season 3?
Possibly—as a guest role. With S.W.A.T. ending soon, Moore may have more flexibility. Brewster supports it, and the writers may craft a fitting arc. ParadeCinemablend
Q5: Why hasn’t Daniel Henney or Matthew Gray Gubler returned full-time?
Henney is busy on The Wheel of Time, and Gubler’s return has been limited to one episode due to scheduling. Similar constraints apply to Moore. People.com+4TV Insider+4People.com+4
Fans can continue hoping—in the meantime, Sgt. Morgan remains an honorary member of the BAU in spirit. The door isn’t closed—it’s just waiting for the right invitation.
