As Criminal Minds: Evolution continues its run on Paramount+, fans are hoping for the return of original cast members like Shemar Moore. However, it seems challenging for Moore to reprise his role as Derek Morgan in the upcoming third season. Criminal Minds: Evolution serves as a revival of the classic CBS crime drama, which concluded two years before the new series premiered. While many original actors have returned for the revival, Moore is unfortunately not among them.
Production for Season 3 began in August 2024, but Paramount+ has yet to announce a release date, with many speculating it will premiere in 2025. The conclusion of Season 2 left viewers with several unanswered questions, such as the fate of Voit following the prison attack. Fortunately, the show was renewed for a third season before the Season 2 finale, alleviating fears of a cliffhanger ending. Characters like Emily Prentiss, David Rossi, Jennifer “JJ” Jareau, and Penelope Garcia are expected to return, but many fans are still hoping for Moore’s involvement.
Why Moore’s Schedule Makes His Return Improbable
A significant factor preventing Shemar Moore from reprising his role as Derek Morgan is his commitment to S.W.A.T., the CBS series where he plays the lead role of Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson. While Moore has expressed a willingness to return to the Criminal Minds franchise, the demands of S.W.A.T. have consumed most of his schedule. With several cast members departing S.W.A.T. ahead of its eighth season, the show relies on Moore’s presence now more than ever.
Moore has been a cornerstone of S.W.A.T. since its premiere in 2017, and as one of the few original cast members left, his role is crucial. The recent exits of Alex Russell (Jim Street), Kenny Johnson (Dominique Luca), and Peter Onorati (Jack Mumford) have further emphasized the importance of Moore’s continued involvement in the series.
The Need for Derek Morgan’s Return in the Future
Despite Shemar Moore’s absence from Criminal Minds: Evolution, there’s a strong case for bringing back Derek Morgan at some point. Moore last played Morgan during Season 12 of the original series, and fans have missed his presence since then. Morgan was a key figure in the BAU, and his dynamic with Penelope Garcia was one of the show’s highlights. A reunion between the two would undoubtedly enhance the narrative and resonate with long-time viewers.
While the revival faces scheduling challenges, the door should remain open for Moore to return as Derek Morgan, given the character’s legacy and significance in the franchise. Fans continue to hope that circumstances will allow for his much-anticipated comeback in future seasons.
