Criminal Minds fans say goodbye to Thomas Gibson

Photo courtesy of Cliff Lipson

Fans aren’t happy about Thomas Gibson not returning to Criminal Minds for Season 12. #NoHotchNoWatch

Kiera Bothwell, Managing Editor

The infamous crime show, “Criminal Minds,” has decided to take a new direction of cast and viewers are not having it.
If anyone has watched “Criminal Minds,” Thomas Gibson, known as “Aaron Hotchner” on the show, has made a huge title for himself by starring as the Unit Chief for the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. Over 12 years, the fictional team solved hundreds of the most grueling murders by analyzing behaviors of the culprits. Hotchner has always been a major benefactor in solving the insidious crimes.
This new season offers many new changes, some of which fans are not going to like. Former star Gibson, will not be returning to the show.
After 12 years of being a staple character on the beloved crime show, Thomas Gibson was supposedly kicked off for an altercation with a writer on set. Apparently, Gibson kicked a writer in the shin over a disagreement on set. This gives fans extreme confusion, wondering how such a loyal character on the show could be kicked off for a small physical altercation with a set member. Despite his lawyer-up, Gibson was not invited to be back on the show for its twelfth season. This factor raises many questions on whether or not Gibson should’ve been forgiven for his unexpected actions, after all he is one of the most dedicated cast members of the show.
“I’m pretty upset because I always liked how he was the very grounded, serious character on the show,” said freshman, Ulrich Tiago.
Hotchner has always been a character that watchers could rely on. He was basically the superhero of the show hat led his team of crimefighters in order to further rid the world of the baddest criminals.
“They have changed characters before, but it’ll definitely be a little weird without him,” said senior, Ryan Harper.
Other main characters, like Shemar Moore known as “Derek Morgan,” is also leaving the long-lasting show. Unlike Gibson, Moore is choosing to leave the show for personal reasons. Even though Moore is leaving the show, viewers cannot stray from the fact that a new Unit Chief will have to be chosen.
As we say goodbye to our beloved protagonist, we must try to accept the fate of the show’s future, even though there will be a hole where Thomas Gibson once stood.
“It’s like watching ‘SVU,’ without Olivia Benson,” said Harper.