What Season Did Morgan Leave Criminal Minds? Explained

06 May, 2025

What season witnessed the departure of Derek Morgan from the captivating world of "Criminal Minds"? The answer, etched in the annals of television history, is season 11, a moment that sent ripples of surprise and nostalgia through the show's devoted fanbase, forever altering the dynamic of the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit.

The news of Shemar Moore's exit, after eleven seasons of embodying the charismatic and fiercely loyal Derek Morgan, left many fans grappling with the void his absence would create. Morgan, a cornerstone of the BAU since the very beginning, had become synonymous with the show's heart and soul. His ability to connect with victims, his unwavering dedication to his team, and his formidable skill in deciphering the minds of the most depraved criminals had made him an indispensable figure.

In the episode titled "Kingmaking," which aired on February 8, 2016, fans bid a heartfelt farewell as Morgan made his momentous decision to leave the BAU. The circumstances surrounding his departure were emotionally charged, culminating in a narrative that both honored his character's journey and allowed Moore to explore new horizons. The episode wasn't just an ending; it was a testament to the impact Morgan had on the series and its viewers.

The actors decision to depart wasn't a random occurrence; it was the culmination of a personal and professional assessment. The demands of portraying such an intense character for over a decade took a toll, and Moore felt it was time to embrace new challenges and spend more time with his family. His departure created a void that was felt by both the cast and the audience.

The emotional impact of Morgan's departure was amplified by the dramatic events that preceded it. He faced harrowing experiences, including being kidnapped and nearly losing his life. In addition, his girlfriend, Savannah, became pregnant, which further shifted his priorities. These challenges paved the way for Morgan's decision to leave the BAU to focus on his family.

While the character's exit was a somber event for many, the writers ensured it wasn't a tragic end. Derek Morgan didn't meet his demise but instead walked away to embrace a new chapter. This was a delicate balance to maintain, ensuring his character wasn't dishonored while also allowing Moore to leave and explore new opportunities.

The departure of a core character always leaves a mark on a show. Yet, it also creates an opportunity for other characters to evolve and become more prominent. The departure of Morgan from the BAU forced the remaining team members to adjust and adapt, showcasing the strength and resilience of the group.

The question of whether Morgan might return has been a constant topic of conversation among fans. While there are no guarantees, the possibility of seeing him back in some capacity remains open. Moore's subsequent guest appearances and public statements suggest he retains a fondness for the show and the character, which leaves the door open for future interactions.

The legacy of Derek Morgan continues to resonate with viewers. He remains one of the most beloved characters in the "Criminal Minds" universe. His presence provided strength and empathy, and his absence created a void that still resonates.

The show's creative team had the difficult job of handling Moore's departure. His departure was handled with sensitivity and respect. They successfully crafted a storyline that acknowledged the character's importance, while allowing for a fitting exit.

The following table provides key biographical and professional information about Shemar Moore and his character, Derek Morgan.

Category	Information
Full Name	Shemar Franklin Moore
Date of Birth	April 20, 1970
Birthplace	Oakland, California, USA
Height	6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
Education	Santa Clara University (Bachelor of Arts in Communication)
Character Name (Criminal Minds)	Derek Morgan
Role in Criminal Minds	Supervisory Special Agent, FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU)
Seasons in Criminal Minds	1-11, with guest appearances in later seasons
Departure Episode	"Kingmaking" (Season 11, Episode 18)
Reason for Leaving (In-universe)	To focus on family, after nearly losing his wife and welcoming his son, Hank.
Notable Characteristics (Derek Morgan)	Charismatic, protective, skilled profiler, strong physical presence, childhood trauma survivor, loyalty to team, strong connection with victims.
Other Notable Roles	Malcolm Winters in "The Young and the Restless," and as Sergeant Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson in "S.W.A.T.".
Awards and Recognition	Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (The Young and the Restless)
Current Projects	Leading role in the TV series "S.W.A.T."
Family	Daughter, Frankie Moore (born January 2023)
Reference Website	IMDB

The departure of Shemar Moore from "Criminal Minds" in Season 11 was a pivotal moment, but his legacy lives on, a testament to the impact of his performance and the enduring appeal of the character he brought to life. The role remains a source of fond memories, and the possibility of his return keeps the spirit of Derek Morgan alive in the hearts of his fans.

Shemar Moore's decision to leave the role of Derek Morgan after 11 seasons was driven by several factors. The actor expressed a desire to spend more time with his family and pursue new opportunities. The demanding nature of the show, both physically and emotionally, played a role in his choice to move on. However, he has returned as a guest star in later seasons, showing the bond he retains with the show.

The events leading to Morgan's departure are deeply rooted in the narrative. He was put through very difficult situations, like being kidnapped, put in a position where his life was endangered, and discovering his girlfriend was expecting a child. These intense experiences provided the emotional context for Morgan's decision to leave, putting his family first.

The episode in season 11 that saw Morgan's final departure, titled "A Beautiful Disaster," was a dramatic episode that saw Morgan's pregnant wife Savannah shot. The episode was packed with action and emotion, as Morgan sought to capture the person responsible and, after Savannah delivered their son Hank, Morgan said goodbye to the team, before quitting the BAU. This gave his character a satisfying conclusion while acknowledging his emotional journey throughout the series.

In the "Criminal Minds" narrative, Morgan's character was the heart of the team from the start. His presence was marked by charm, strength, and a natural talent for solving the most difficult cases. His ability to interact with people made him an invaluable part of the BAU.

Morgan's departure was a calculated move by the writers. It was not a sudden death, which would have upset audiences. Instead, they wrote a storyline that allowed his character to have a fulfilling exit, preserving the essential qualities of Derek Morgan while paving the way for Shemar Moore to explore other areas of his career.

It is worth noting that Shemar Moore hasn't ruled out a return to "Criminal Minds" completely, and has made cameos in later seasons. While it appears Morgan will not be a regular character in the current run of the show, the door is still open for future appearances.

Shemar Moore's portrayal of Derek Morgan remains one of the most beloved aspects of the show's history. Morgan's journey through the series, his influence on the BAU, and his ultimate farewell have earned him a special place in the hearts of fans. His departure has left a gap in the series that has not been completely filled, emphasizing his essential presence on the team.

The episode featuring Morgan's departure in season 11 was a crucial moment for viewers. The creative team behind the show faced the difficult job of handling the departure. In doing so, they crafted a storyline that both honored the character's legacy while providing a proper send-off.

Many fans have asked, "What season does Morgan leave Criminal Minds?" The answer lies in season 11. Specifically, in "Kingmaking," which aired on February 8, 2016. In the episode, the team pursues a case, and Morgan is confronted with events that lead him to resign from the BAU to focus on family.

The departure of Morgan left many fans surprised and curious about what would happen next. Despite this, his absence in no way diminished the popularity or influence of the show. His departure was a crucial point in the series' history.

Details

Why Did Morgan Leave Criminal Minds? What Happened to Shemar Moore on

Details

When Does Morgan Leave Criminal Minds A Comprehensive Guide

Details

Detail Author:

Name : Aleen Berge
Username : nharvey
Email : carol.schmitt@bernier.com
Birthdate : 1985-04-23
Address : 91542 Roberts Mews Suite 907 New Emelieburgh, KS 49877-3212
Phone : 619.441.5985
Company : Herman-Dietrich
Job : Forester
Bio : Et aut qui ipsum. Asperiores aliquam dignissimos voluptatum quibusdam itaque.

Socials

linkedin:

url : https://linkedin.com/in/nicholas1867
username : nicholas1867
bio : Dolorem aut fuga non voluptatibus accusamus quia.
followers : 118
following : 19

instagram:

url : https://instagram.com/hilln
username : hilln
bio : Unde at ex molestiae. Dolor ab culpa et aspernatur aut temporibus. Vel officiis sed quam voluptate.
followers : 1704
following : 2287

tiktok:

url : https://tiktok.com/@nicholas_hill
username : nicholas_hill
bio : Fuga sed et delectus. Explicabo similique non veniam assumenda molestiae.
followers : 347
following : 325

facebook:

url : https://facebook.com/hilln
username : hilln
bio : Molestiae quia non voluptates nihil minima consequuntur.
followers : 1947
following : 570

twitter:

url : https://twitter.com/nicholas_dev
username : nicholas_dev
bio : Laboriosam commodi fugit molestiae quidem totam. Nemo illo quia repudiandae est. Quia eos sunt deserunt quis id porro deserunt dolore.
followers : 519
following : 2723