Aaron “Hotch” Hotchner, a pivotal character on “Criminal Minds,” was written out of the show during its twelfth season due to an incident that occurred off-screen involving the actor Thomas Gibson, who portrayed Hotch.
Gibson was disciplined following an altercation with a writer on the set, during which he reportedly kicked his colleague while directing an episode. Although there were initial considerations of suspending Gibson for two weeks, the production ultimately decided to terminate his contract with the series.
In response to the incident, Gibson expressed remorse and gratitude for his time spent working with the cast and crew of “Criminal Minds.” Despite having appeared in a substantial 257 episodes spanning from 2005 to 2016, Gibson’s departure marked the end of his involvement in the long-running crime procedural.
Following his exit from “Criminal Minds,” Gibson has been involved in several projects, but none have achieved the same level of recognition as the crime series.
Despite the show’s revival on Paramount Plus, there have been no indications of Hotch making a return to the series. Fans have expressed interest in the potential return of other characters, particularly Spencer Reid, but Gibson appears to have severed ties with the show entirely.
