Fans already witnessed the exit of Aaron Hotchner (Thomas Gibson) in the second episode of the long-running police procedural drama TV series. It looks like fans are not satisfied with the 54-year-old actor's departure as the show didn't give him the takeoff he deserves. However, the seat left by the director will be filled by the return of Paget Brewster in "Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 3, "Taboo."
Paget Brewster Appears To Replace Thomas Gibson
According to CarterMatt, Paget Brewster is now a series regular and will be permanently seen in the show. The 47-year-old star will first appear in "Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 3 and might take Hotch's place. It looks like the American actress has it to take Hotch's vacant seat with her intelligence, confidence and abilities to help other people, especially the ones in need. However, CBS didn't give any more details about the character of Emily Prentiss or about the new episode, but she is set to lead the investigation into the disappearance of three women.
Thomas Gibson Didn't Receive A Proper Departure He Deserves?
Meanwhile, fans thought that there will be a special tribute for the exit of Hotch, but it looks like it will be only another regular airing for "Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 3. In fact, some supporters of Thomas Gibson even think that his quick dismissal from the show in a big insult to them. Hotch hasn't even given a chance to cast his final farewell as his last uttered words were, "it's not a request," Entertainment Weekly reported.
If truth be told, Thomas Gibson feels like "they're trying to erase me from the show," he told People. Also, CBS is trying its best to seal the actor's exit by adding new characters in the show. The network recently announced the coming of "Empire" star Damon Gupton in the series as Special Agent Stephen Walker that will work in the counterintelligence division of the FBI.
"Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 3 will air on Oct. 12 on CBS. In the meantime, watch Hotch's final scene on "Criminal Minds" Season 2 Episode 2 below!
