Will Shemar Moore Return to ‘Criminal Minds’ Now That ‘S.W.A.T.’ Is Canceled?

The television landscape has seen significant shifts recently, with long-running shows concluding and fan-favorite actors exploring new opportunities. One such actor is Shemar Moore, renowned for his roles in Criminal Minds and S.W.A.T. As S.W.A.T. wraps up its run, fans are left wondering: will Moore return to his iconic role as Derek Morgan in the Criminal Minds universe?

Shemar Moore’s Journey: From ‘Criminal Minds’ to ‘S.W.A.T.’

Moore’s portrayal of Derek Morgan in Criminal Minds made him a household name. His character, a skilled profiler with a tough exterior and a compassionate heart, resonated with audiences. After leaving the show in 2016 to pursue other projects, Moore took on the role of Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson in S.W.A.T., a series that brought him back to the procedural drama genre.

The End of ‘S.W.A.T.’ and Its Impact on Moore’s Career

S.W.A.T. concluded after its eighth season, leaving Moore with a wealth of experience and a dedicated fanbase. The end of the series opens up new possibilities for the actor, including the potential to revisit past roles.

‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’: A New Chapter in the Franchise

Following its original run, Criminal Minds returned with Criminal Minds: Evolution on Paramount+. The revival brought back many original cast members, continuing the story of the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) as they tackle new and evolving threats.

Moore’s Openness to Returning as Derek Morgan

In interviews, Moore has expressed a willingness to return to the Criminal Minds universe. He stated, “All I need is an invitation,” highlighting his openness to reprising his role if the opportunity arises .

Showrunner’s Perspective on Bringing Back Legacy Characters

Criminal Minds: Evolution showrunner Erica Messer has indicated that any return of legacy characters, including Morgan, would need to be driven by emotional storytelling rather than mere nostalgia. She emphasized the importance of personal stakes in bringing back familiar faces .

Scheduling Challenges and Opportunities

While Moore’s schedule was previously occupied with S.W.A.T., the conclusion of that series frees up his time. This change could make it more feasible for him to participate in future Criminal Minds episodes, should the storyline align.

Fan Support and Anticipation

Fans have been vocal about their desire to see Moore return to Criminal Minds. Social media platforms are abuzz with campaigns and messages encouraging the actor and producers to bring Derek Morgan back into the fold.

Potential Storylines for Morgan’s Return

If Moore were to return, several compelling storylines could be explored. One possibility is Morgan coming back to assist the BAU with a particularly challenging case. Another option is to delve into his personal life, perhaps addressing unresolved issues or new developments.

The Importance of Legacy Characters in Revivals

In many successful TV revivals, the inclusion of legacy characters has been a key factor in attracting both old and new viewers. Their presence provides continuity and emotional depth, enriching the overall narrative.

What Moore’s Return Could Mean for ‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’

Moore’s return as Derek Morgan could bring a surge of interest to Criminal Minds: Evolution, potentially boosting viewership and adding a layer of excitement for long-time fans.

Conclusion: A Possibility Worth Exploring

While there are no official announcements regarding Shemar Moore’s return to Criminal Minds: Evolution, the combination of his expressed interest, the show’s openness to legacy characters, and the end of his commitments to S.W.A.T. make his return a possibility worth exploring. Fans can only hope that the stars align for this reunion.

FAQs

1. Has Shemar Moore officially confirmed his return to ‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’?
No, Moore has expressed interest but has not confirmed his return.

2. What role did Shemar Moore play in ‘Criminal Minds’?
He portrayed Derek Morgan, a special agent in the BAU.

3. Why did ‘S.W.A.T.’ end?
The series concluded after its eighth season, with no official reason provided for its cancellation.

4. Are other original cast members returning to ‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’?
Yes, several original cast members have returned, including Joe Mantegna and AJ Cook.

5. How can fans show support for Moore’s return?
Fans can express their support through social media campaigns and by engaging with official show channels.