In an unexpected twist during Season 11 of "Criminal Minds," Shemar Moore, who had become a household name playing the beloved Derek Morgan since the show's conception, decided to part ways. The reason? Moore felt he had fully explored Morgan's complexities and sought to broaden his acting horizon. Every year, for a decade, Moore had dedicated ten months to filming, which restrained him from venturing into new roles and attending to his personal life — a sacrifice that eventually led him to prioritize his career growth and well-being. Despite leaving the BAU team, Moore's character, Morgan, wasn’t forgotten. He made several memorable returns, offering emotional strength through flashbacks and dream visits, keeping fans hopeful for more. Moore's drive didn't just lead him away from the BAU; it propelled him into action-packed roles, notably as Sergeant Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson in "S.W.A.T.," alongside ventures in voice acting and the big screen, including a role in "Sonic the Hedgehog 2." He even made a nostalgic return to "The Young and the Restless."