Criminal Minds: Why Derek Morgan Hasn’t Returned In Evolution Addressed By Shemar Moore

Despite calls for him to appear, Shemar Moore explains why he hasn’t returned as Derek Morgan in Criminal Minds: Evolution. The SWAT actor was part of the original ensemble of the CBS police procedural when it debuted in 2005. He was in Criminal Minds as SSA Derek Morgan for more than a decade until he decided to leave and pursue other things. Still, the show was able to craft a send-off that leaves the door open for him to return anytime. Given this, there’s an expectation that Derek will eventually pop back up in Criminal Minds: Evolution.

Speaking with First For Women, Moore shares why he has yet to appear as Derek Morgan in Criminal Minds: Evolution. He has been clear about being open to partake in the Paramount+ revival, but his answer indirectly reveals that he hasn’t been invited yet. In any case, his stance on the matter remains the same as production for Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2 continues. Read his full quote below:

“If Criminal Minds asked me to come back, I’d go. Because you never forget where you came from. It sounds cliche and maybe cheesy, but it’s also true.”

Why Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 Needs Derek Morgan

The BAU Can Use Morgan’s Help.

While Criminal Minds: Evolution was able to maintain its core cast, certain members of the BAU are still missing from the show. Daniel Henney hasn’t been able to return as Matt Simmons because of scheduling conflict, while he films Wheel of Time. Meanwhile, Matthew Gray Gubler’s Spencer Reid is also absent because of other endeavors. Both maintain their spot in BAU chief Emily Prentiss’ squad. Since the revival’s cases are now bigger and darker, the profilers need all the help that they can get, especially from former members such as Derek.

Beyond his investigative skills, Morgan’s Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2 appearance can also benefit from his personal connection to the rest of the team. Considering his close friendship with Penelope Garcia, he may be the only one who can talk some sense into her about giving Luke Alvez a chance. Derek may even help Garcia fully move on from her odd affair with Tyler Green. Finally, Moore’s potential Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2 appearance can finally accomplish one thing that hasn’t happened in the franchise in so long — Derek and Reid sharing the screen.

Ultimately, there are so many reasons to bring back Moore’s Derek in the Criminal Minds franchise. Ideally, his appearance would mean something to an ongoing case or a personal matter for any of his former BAU teammates. That said, even if it’s just a cameo for the sake of it, seeing him in Criminal Minds: Evolution will still be a treat.

Source: First For Women