The dismissal of Thomas Gibson, who played SSA Aaron Hotchner, created a much-hyped "Criminal Minds Season 12" before it air later in September. Despite the disappointment of fans after he was fired from the show, latest season premiere photos confirmed that they can still see him in the early episodes of the CBS police procedural drama TV series.
The first look of the photos confirmed that Gibson will still appear in "Criminal Minds Season 12's" first two episodes amidst many speculations, according to Cinema Blend. In the photo, Gibson appears upset while talking to somebody on the phone.
If the earlier statement of showrunner Erica Messer will be the basis, Gibson's character as BAU Special Agent Hotchner, will be sent on a special mission by the FBI director in episode 3, TVLine reported. This could pave the way for the character's demise in the show.
When "Criminal Minds Season 12" returns, fans could expect to see the show in action as the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) team faces the task of tracking a bunch of serial killers who are at large after escaping the prison in the last season finale. With two major cast members already gone, including Shemar Moore, the team is in need of other hands that will help other members find the criminals.
Season 12 cast changes led to the addition of "CSI: Miami" veteran Adam Rodriguez as Agent Luke Alvez, an ex Army ranger whose tracking skills will be a huge help to the BAU team. Paget Brewster will be returning as Emily Prentiss as a talented criminal profiler while Aisha Tyler was promoted to series regular to reprise her role as Dr. Tara Lewis.
Before the premiere of "Criminal Minds Season 12," many fans still think that the firing of Gibson is just a publicity stunt and the actor will be back to the show permanently. However, the showrunners assured that it is not a case of publicity to gain more viewers and ratings for the new season. Fans of Gibson have since shown their support for the actor in a form of protest after he was fired from the long-running TV series.
There are rumors that Moore, who left "Criminal Minds" Season 11 is going to return in the new season. CBS has not confirmed the speculations yet. The show is returning on Sept. 28 on CBS.
Check out "Criminal Minds" Season 12 latest news: