Summary
CBS's renewal of S.W.A.T. for a final season makes it less likely that Shemar Moore will return to Criminal Minds.
Moore's commitment to his role as Hondo in S.W.A.T. will consume a significant portion of his schedule, as he is not only the show's lead but also a producer.
Although it remains a possibility for Moore to make a comeback on Criminal Minds, it is more probable that this would occur following the conclusion of the S.W.A.T. series, considering the filming delay of Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2.
CBS' surprise decision to reverse the cancelation of S.W.A.T. is great news for fans, but it may affect Shemar Moore's chances of returning to another iconic TV role. Prior to the season 6 finale, CBS and Sony abruptly ended their partnership, causing disappointment among dedicated fans and leading to criticism from Moore, who is one of the main stars of the show. However, now that S.W.A.T. is back on track, Moore is preparing for one final appearance as the lead character, Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson.
With the show's return for a 13-episode final season 7, there is an opportunity for loose ends to be tied up and for the core team to have a proper send-off. However, Moore's busy filming schedule, combined with his new producing responsibilities, will likely limit his availability for other projects. While it's certainly exciting that he will be reprising his role as Hondo, it also indicates that he will have limited time for other endeavors.
SWAT Season 7's Renewal Makes Derek Morgan's Return In Criminal Minds' Revival Less Likely
In his 11 seasons on Criminal Minds, Shemar Moore gained recognition and acclaim for his role as Derek Morgan, an FBI Supervisory Special Agent in the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). The show propelled Moore's career to new heights, making him a familiar face on CBS' highly-watched program. After leaving the BAU in 2016, Moore transitioned to the role of Hondo in S.W.A.T. Since 2017, he has been starring in the show. Although there was speculation that he would return to Criminal Minds: Evolution after S.W.A.T.'s cancellation, the surprise renewal of S.W.A.T. for its seventh season suggests that Moore will be primarily focused on wrapping up the successful series. However, as a significant character in Criminal Minds, there is a possibility that Moore may make a comeback in the second season of Evolution on Paramount+ if the circumstances allow.
Will Shemar Moore Ever Return To Criminal Minds?
Despite S.W.A.T. being renewed for another season, there is still a possibility that Shemar Moore might make a comeback to Criminal Minds. However, this is more likely to happen after the conclusion of the S.W.A.T series. Moore has shown a willingness to revisit past projects, as seen when he returned to his role on The Young and the Restless for the show's 50th anniversary in 2023. While he has not directly confirmed his return to Criminal Minds, it seems more plausible for Derek Morgan to make a comeback due to the filming delay of Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2. If production is on hold for a significant period, there may be an opportunity for him to make a cameo appearance after S.W.A.T. wraps up filming.