Aaron Hotchner, the stalwart unit chief of the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU), departed Criminal Minds in the sixth episode of Season 12, titled “Red Light“. His absence marked a significant turning point in the series, leaving a void felt by both the team and the dedicated fanbase.
Unpacking the Departure: “Red Light” and Beyond
The circumstances surrounding Hotch’s exit were far from straightforward, stemming from real-world issues rather than a purely narrative decision. While the on-screen explanation involved a dangerous fugitive targeting his son, Jack, the true story involves a controversy surrounding the actor Thomas Gibson, who portrayed Hotchner.
“Red Light”, originally aired on November 2, 2016, serves as a pivotal point. In the episode, Hotch is placed on temporary duty, tasked with tracking down Mr. Scratch, a recurring nemesis who had been tormenting the BAU. This reassignment provides a narrative justification for his initial absence, setting the stage for the eventual reveal of his permanent departure. The episode focuses primarily on the rest of the team solving a case involving serial killers working in concert, a compelling mystery that keeps viewers engaged even as Hotch’s role is significantly reduced.
It’s crucial to note that Hotch doesn’t die or suffer a catastrophic injury within the episode. His absence is framed as necessary for his and Jack’s safety. This allows for the possibility of a future return, although, in actuality, Gibson’s termination prevented this from happening.
Understanding the Reasons Behind the Camera
Behind the scenes, tensions had been escalating between Thomas Gibson and a writer on the show. An on-set altercation led to Gibson’s initial suspension and subsequent firing. The network and production company deemed his behavior unacceptable, making it impossible for him to continue in his role as Aaron Hotchner.
This situation forced the show’s writers to quickly rewrite existing storylines and craft a believable explanation for Hotch’s departure. The decision to focus on Jack’s safety was seen as the most logical and respectful way to handle the situation, given Hotch’s unwavering dedication to his son.
The departure significantly impacted the show’s dynamic. Hotch’s leadership and strategic mind were vital to the BAU. His absence necessitated a shift in the team’s structure and forced other characters to step up and fill the void.
Life After Hotch: The BAU’s Evolution
Following “Red Light,” the BAU grappled with the loss of their leader. Other characters, such as Emily Prentiss, played a key role in filling the void left by Hotchner. Prentiss eventually takes on the role of Unit Chief, showcasing her leadership capabilities and providing a new direction for the team.
The writers introduced new characters and explored different storylines to compensate for Hotch’s absence. The team faced new challenges and adapted to a different leadership style. While Hotch’s presence was missed by many fans, the show continued to explore the complexities of criminal behavior and the personal lives of the BAU agents.
The absence of Hotch also opened the door for guest stars and returning characters to take on more prominent roles. This allowed the show to experiment with different dynamics and explore new facets of the BAU team.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Hotch’s Departure
Here are frequently asked questions related to Aaron Hotchner’s exit from Criminal Minds:
H3: What exactly happened with Thomas Gibson on set?
The specific details of the on-set altercation are not publicly available, but it involved a physical confrontation between Thomas Gibson and a writer. The incident led to Gibson’s suspension and subsequent termination from the show.
H3: Was Hotch supposed to be killed off?
No. The writers chose not to kill off Hotch, leaving the possibility open for a return, albeit unlikely due to the circumstances of Gibson’s departure. They opted for a storyline involving Jack’s safety, allowing for a more graceful exit.
H3: Did Thomas Gibson ever comment on his firing?
Yes, Thomas Gibson released a statement expressing his disappointment with the situation and his love for the show and its fans. He has largely remained private about the details surrounding the incident.
H3: Who replaced Hotch as Unit Chief?
Emily Prentiss eventually took over as Unit Chief, showcasing her leadership skills and providing a new perspective to the team. She had previously served as Unit Chief for a period, making her a natural choice.
H3: How did the other cast members react to Gibson’s departure?
The cast members generally expressed support for the decision made by the network and production company. They acknowledged the difficult circumstances and emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive and professional work environment.
H3: Did the ratings of Criminal Minds change after Hotch left?
While ratings fluctuate over time for any long-running series, there was no dramatic drop in viewership immediately following Hotch’s departure. The show maintained a dedicated fanbase that continued to tune in.
H3: Was Hotch’s departure planned before the incident?
No. Hotch’s departure was not planned and was a direct result of the incident involving Thomas Gibson. The writers had to quickly adapt their storylines to account for his absence.
H3: What was the fan reaction to Hotch leaving?
Fan reaction was mixed. Some fans were disappointed and saddened by Hotch’s departure, while others were understanding of the circumstances and supportive of the remaining cast members.
H3: Could Hotch ever return to Criminal Minds?
Given the circumstances of Thomas Gibson’s departure, a return to the franchise in any future iterations would be highly improbable.
H3: What episode does Rossi become Unit Chief?
David Rossi does not become Unit Chief. After Hotch’s exit, Emily Prentiss assumes the role of Unit Chief, solidifying her leadership position within the BAU.
H3: How did they write Mr. Scratch into Hotch’s departure?
Mr. Scratch was portrayed as a direct threat to Hotch and his son, Jack. This threat served as the primary justification for Hotch’s reassignment and eventual departure. He needed to protect his son from Scratch’s influence, necessitating him to take Jack into hiding.
H3: What happened to Jack after Hotch left?
The show briefly mentions that Jack is safe and being cared for by Hotch. The details of their whereabouts are intentionally vague to maintain their safety within the narrative. The storyline served as a fitting, albeit bittersweet, conclusion to Hotch’s story arc.
A Legacy Defined: Hotch’s Impact on Criminal Minds
While the circumstances surrounding Aaron Hotchner’s departure were unfortunate, his character left an indelible mark on Criminal Minds. His leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to justice made him a fan favorite. The BAU, though altered by his absence, continued to fight the good fight, carrying on the legacy of Aaron Hotchner. The enduring popularity of Criminal Minds demonstrates the strength of its ensemble cast and the compelling nature of its storylines, even in the face of significant changes.