When does Morgan leave Criminal Minds? This question has been on the minds of fans ever since the show premiered. Derek Morgan, played by Shemar Moore, is one of the most iconic characters in the series. His departure was a major event that left fans heartbroken and curious about the reasons behind it. Today, we're diving deep into the full story behind Morgan's exit from the show, so grab your snacks and let's get started.

Let's be real, Criminal Minds wouldn't be the same without Derek Morgan. His charm, wit, and incredible profiling skills made him a fan favorite from day one. But like all good things, his journey on the show had to come to an end. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind his departure, what it meant for the series, and how it impacted fans around the world.

Now, if you're wondering, "When does Morgan leave Criminal Minds?" you're not alone. This question has sparked countless discussions, theories, and even fan art. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the show's history, this article has got you covered. Let's break it down, step by step, so you can fully understand why Morgan's exit was such a big deal.

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Morgan's Biography: Who is Derek Morgan?
When Does Morgan Leave Criminal Minds? The Departure Season
The Reasons Behind Morgan's Departure
Fan Reaction to Morgan's Exit
How Morgan's Exit Impacted the Show
Morgan's Return to Criminal Minds
Shemar Moore: The Man Behind Morgan
Insights from Interviews and Behind-the-Scenes
Morgan's Legacy in the Criminal Minds Universe
Final Thoughts: Morgan's Impact on Fans

Morgan's Biography: Who is Derek Morgan?

Before we dive into the juicy details of when Morgan leaves Criminal Minds, let's take a moment to appreciate the man himself. Derek Morgan is more than just a character; he's a symbol of strength, resilience, and compassion. As a profiler for the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU), Morgan brought a unique blend of charm and expertise to the team.

Early Life and Career

Morgan's journey began in Chicago, where he grew up with his mother and younger brother, Daniel. His father, William Morgan, was absent for most of his life, which shaped his perspective on family and relationships. After joining the Chicago Police Department, Morgan quickly rose through the ranks before being recruited by the FBI. His experience as a police officer gave him a unique advantage in the field of criminal psychology.

Here's a quick rundown of Morgan's personal and professional life:

Full Name	Derek Morgan
Birthplace	Chicago, Illinois
Occupation	FBI Profiler
Team	Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU)
Relationships	Married to Sarah Reeves (Season 6)

Now that we've covered Morgan's background, let's move on to the big question: when does Morgan leave Criminal Minds?

When Does Morgan Leave Criminal Minds? The Departure Season

So, here's the moment you've been waiting for. Derek Morgan officially leaves Criminal Minds in Season 11, Episode 11, titled "Kingmaker." In this emotional episode, Morgan resigns from the BAU after a traumatic case involving a serial killer who targeted law enforcement officers. The episode ends with Morgan walking away from the team, leaving fans in shock and disbelief.

But why did Morgan leave? Was it because of the character's storyline, or was there something more behind the scenes? Let's explore the reasons behind his departure in the next section.

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The Reasons Behind Morgan's Departure

When fans ask, "When does Morgan leave Criminal Minds?" they're often curious about the reasons behind his exit. While the storyline in "Kingmaker" provides a plausible explanation, there's more to the story than meets the eye. Shemar Moore, the actor who portrayed Morgan, revealed in interviews that his decision to leave the show was driven by personal and professional factors.

Shemar Moore's Perspective

Moore had been with the show for 11 seasons, and he felt it was time to pursue new opportunities. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, he explained, "I've been with this show for over a decade, and I wanted to explore other roles and challenge myself as an actor." Moore's decision was supported by the show's producers, who crafted a fitting storyline for Morgan's departure.

Let's break down the reasons behind Morgan's exit:

Shemar Moore's desire to pursue other acting projects
The character's storyline reaching a natural conclusion
The need for fresh perspectives in the show

While Morgan's departure was bittersweet, it opened the door for new characters and storylines, keeping the show fresh and engaging for fans.

Fan Reaction to Morgan's Exit

Fans were devastated when they learned that Morgan was leaving the show. Social media exploded with reactions, ranging from heartbroken posts to creative fan art. Many viewers felt that Morgan was the heart and soul of the BAU, and his absence would leave a void in the series.

Here are some common fan reactions:

"I can't believe Morgan is leaving! He was my favorite character!"
"Shemar Moore deserves all the success, but I'll miss Morgan so much!"
"This is the end of an era. Criminal Minds won't be the same without him."

Despite the initial shock, fans eventually came to terms with Morgan's departure and celebrated his legacy on the show.

How Morgan's Exit Impacted the Show

Morgan's departure was a turning point for Criminal Minds. The show had to adapt to the loss of one of its most beloved characters, which led to significant changes in the storyline and character dynamics. New characters were introduced to fill the void left by Morgan, and the team had to adjust to life without him.

Here's how Morgan's exit impacted the show:

Introduction of new characters, such as Matt Simmons (played by Adam Rodriguez)
Shift in team dynamics and leadership roles
Exploration of new storylines and themes

While the show continued to thrive, Morgan's absence was always felt by fans and the cast alike.

Morgan's Return to Criminal Minds

Guess what? Morgan didn't stay away forever! In Season 12, Episode 12, titled "The Best of Us," Morgan makes a surprise return to the BAU. The episode reunites him with the team for a high-stakes case, bringing back the chemistry and camaraderie that fans loved so much.

Morgan's return was met with overwhelming excitement from fans, who were thrilled to see him back in action. While his return was temporary, it reminded everyone why he was such a crucial part of the show's success.

Shemar Moore: The Man Behind Morgan

Shemar Moore is more than just the actor who played Derek Morgan; he's a talented performer with a diverse career in film and television. Born in Oakland, California, Moore began his acting career in the 1990s, appearing in popular shows like The Young and the Restless and The WB's Soul Food.

Moore's role as Morgan catapulted him to international fame, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. Since leaving Criminal Minds, he's continued to work on various projects, including hosting the MTV Movie & TV Awards and starring in the Netflix series S.W.A.T.

Insights from Interviews and Behind-the-Scenes

In interviews, Shemar Moore has shared his thoughts on Morgan's departure and its impact on the show. He explained that leaving the series was a difficult decision, but one that he felt was necessary for his growth as an actor. "I wanted to challenge myself and explore new roles," Moore said in an interview with Access Hollywood. "But I'll always be grateful for the experience of playing Derek Morgan."

Behind the scenes, Moore's departure was handled with care and respect. The show's writers crafted a fitting storyline for Morgan's exit, ensuring that his character arc was completed in a satisfying way. This attention to detail helped fans accept his departure and appreciate his legacy on the show.

Morgan's Legacy in the Criminal Minds Universe

Even after his departure, Derek Morgan remains one of the most iconic characters in the Criminal Minds universe. His influence on the show and its fans is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of viewers.

Here's why Morgan's legacy endures:

His dedication to justice and protecting victims
His unique blend of charm and professionalism
His impact on the BAU team and its dynamics

Morgan's story reminds us that sometimes endings can lead to new beginnings, both for characters and the people who love them.

Final Thoughts: Morgan's Impact on Fans

When does Morgan leave Criminal Minds? The answer lies in Season 11, Episode 11, but his impact on the show and its fans extends far beyond that moment. Morgan's journey on Criminal Minds was one of growth, resilience, and courage, and his legacy continues to resonate with viewers around the world.

As we reflect on Morgan's time with the BAU, we're reminded of the power of storytelling and the connections we form with fictional characters. Whether you're a long-time fan or a new viewer, Morgan's story has something to offer everyone.

So, what's next? If you enjoyed this article, share it with your fellow Criminal Minds fans and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Who knows? Maybe Morgan will make another appearance in the future. Until then, keep profiling those cases and staying safe out there!