One of the most iconic characters in the hit TV series "Criminal Minds" is Derek Morgan. Played by Shemar Moore, Morgan has been a central figure in the show since its inception. Fans have been captivated by his charm, strength, and dedication to the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). But what happened to Morgan in "Criminal Minds"? This question has sparked debates and curiosity among viewers worldwide.

Throughout its long run, "Criminal Minds" has explored the complexities of its characters, including Morgan, who faces personal challenges while solving some of the most heinous crimes. Morgan's journey is not just about chasing criminals; it delves into his growth as a person and professional.

In this article, we will delve deep into Morgan's storyline, his departure from the series, and his eventual return. We'll also explore the impact of his character on the show and its fans. So, let's dive in and uncover the truth behind what happened to Morgan in "Criminal Minds."

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Table of Contents

Biography of Derek Morgan
Why Did Morgan Leave Criminal Minds?
Morgan's Return to Criminal Minds
The Impact of Morgan's Character
Fan Reactions to Morgan's Departure
Behind the Scenes: Shemar Moore's Decision
What's Next for Derek Morgan?
Morgan and the Behavioral Analysis Unit
Comparing Morgan to Other Characters
Conclusion

Biography of Derek Morgan

Before diving into what happened to Morgan in "Criminal Minds," let's take a closer look at his background. Derek Morgan is a key member of the BAU, known for his expertise in criminal psychology and his unmatched physical strength.

Derek Morgan's Early Life

Derek Morgan was born on February 18, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois. His father, Daniel Morgan, was a police officer, and his mother, Fran Morgan, was a homemaker. Growing up in a family where law enforcement played a significant role, Morgan developed a strong sense of justice from a young age.

Career at the FBI

After earning a degree in psychology, Morgan joined the FBI, where he quickly rose through the ranks. His skills in profiling and his ability to connect with victims made him an invaluable asset to the BAU. Below is a summary of his key career milestones:

Joined the FBI in 1995
Became a full-time member of the BAU in 2000
Worked alongside seasoned profilers like Jason Gideon and Aaron Hotchner

Data Summary of Derek Morgan

Full Name	Derek Morgan
Birth Date	February 18, 1970
Profession	FBI Profiler
Location	Chicago, Illinois

Why Did Morgan Leave Criminal Minds?

One of the most significant moments in "Criminal Minds" was Morgan's departure in Season 11. Fans were left stunned when the character left the BAU to pursue a new chapter in his life. But what led to this decision?

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Personal Challenges

Morgan's decision to leave the BAU was driven by personal challenges. After years of dealing with the darkest aspects of human nature, he began to feel the weight of his profession. The emotional toll of profiling serial killers and witnessing the suffering of victims took its toll on Morgan's mental health.

Additionally, Morgan had been through a series of traumatic events, including the death of his mentor, Jason Gideon, and the near-fatal shooting by a unsub. These experiences made him realize the importance of stepping back and focusing on his well-being.

Professional Growth

Beyond personal reasons, Morgan's departure was also about professional growth. He wanted to explore new opportunities within the FBI and beyond. Leaving the BAU allowed him to broaden his horizons and contribute to law enforcement in different ways.

Morgan's Return to Criminal Minds

After a brief hiatus, Derek Morgan made a triumphant return to "Criminal Minds" in Season 12. Fans were overjoyed to see their favorite character back in action, but what brought him back?

A Call to Duty

Morgan's return was driven by a sense of duty. When the BAU faced one of its toughest cases yet, Morgan felt compelled to step in and help his former team. His expertise and leadership were crucial in solving the case, and his presence brought stability to the unit.

Continued Adventures

Following his return, Morgan continued to play a pivotal role in the series. His character evolved, showcasing new dimensions and challenges. The writers explored his relationships with other characters and his ongoing journey as a profiler.

The Impact of Morgan's Character

Derek Morgan's character has left an indelible mark on "Criminal Minds" and its fans. His charisma, humor, and dedication have made him one of the most beloved characters in the series.

Role in the BAU

Morgan's role in the BAU cannot be overstated. He was not only a skilled profiler but also a source of strength and support for his colleagues. His ability to connect with victims and offer them hope made him an invaluable asset to the team.

Legacy in Pop Culture

Beyond the show, Morgan's character has become a cultural icon. Fans admire his resilience, integrity, and commitment to justice. His journey from a young profiler to a seasoned investigator has inspired countless viewers.

Fan Reactions to Morgan's Departure

When Morgan left the series, fans were understandably upset. Many felt that the show wouldn't be the same without him. Social media platforms were flooded with reactions, ranging from disappointment to calls for his return.

Positive Reception

Despite initial disappointment, many fans appreciated the storyline behind Morgan's departure. They understood the importance of giving the character a break and exploring new narrative arcs. The writers did an excellent job of handling the transition, ensuring that Morgan's exit felt natural and justified.

Behind the Scenes: Shemar Moore's Decision

Shemar Moore, the actor who portrayed Derek Morgan, made the decision to leave the show after 11 seasons. In interviews, Moore explained that he wanted to pursue new opportunities and explore different roles.

Professional Choices

Moore's decision was both personal and professional. He felt it was time to step away from the character and challenge himself as an actor. His departure allowed him to work on other projects and grow as an artist.

What's Next for Derek Morgan?

While "Criminal Minds" has concluded, the story of Derek Morgan continues to captivate fans. Many speculate about potential spin-offs or guest appearances in future projects.

Possible Spin-Offs

Given the popularity of Morgan's character, a spin-off series focusing on his adventures outside the BAU could be a possibility. Fans would love to see Morgan tackle new challenges and explore different facets of his personality.

Morgan and the Behavioral Analysis Unit

Derek Morgan's relationship with the BAU is central to his character. His interactions with other team members, such as Aaron Hotchner, Spencer Reid, and Penelope Garcia, have shaped the series' narrative.

Team Dynamics

Morgan's presence in the BAU brought balance to the team. His humor and optimism often lightened the mood during tense investigations. His bond with Garcia, in particular, was a fan-favorite aspect of the show.

Comparing Morgan to Other Characters

While Derek Morgan is undoubtedly one of the standout characters in "Criminal Minds," he shares similarities with other members of the BAU. Comparing Morgan to characters like Hotchner and Reid reveals interesting insights into his personality.

Leadership Styles

Unlike Hotchner, who leads with a more formal approach, Morgan's leadership style is grounded in empathy and connection. This makes him a relatable and approachable figure within the team.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey of Derek Morgan in "Criminal Minds" is one of growth, resilience, and dedication. From his early days as a profiler to his eventual departure and return, Morgan's character has resonated with fans worldwide.

Key Takeaways:

Morgan left the BAU to focus on his personal and professional growth.
His return was driven by a sense of duty and the need to help his team.
Fans have embraced Morgan's character as a symbol of strength and integrity.

We invite you to share your thoughts and reactions to Morgan's storyline in the comments below. Did you enjoy his return? What do you think the future holds for his character? Don't forget to explore other articles on our site for more insights into "Criminal Minds" and other popular TV series.

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