"Criminal Minds" has a huge following because of its interesting story. No wonder why it lasted for 12 seasons but this time, it appears that the "Criminal Minds" season 12 ratings are down. The possible reason behind this is the absence of fan favorite Thomas Gibson from the show.
Gibson plays the role of detective Aaron Hotchner for over 10 years but due to an altercation with one of the show's producers, he was fired from "Criminal Minds." However, fans of Hotch were not happy about his departure. As a matter of fact, they threatened to boycott the series if Gibson will not return as Hotch.
The hastags #NoHotchNoWatch, #HotchIsOurHero were used by fans to boycott the show. Could this be the reason why the show's ratings are drastically down?
Apart from Gibson, Shemar Moore, who played the role of Derek Morgan also left the show back in March. In an interview with TV Guide, Moore revealed that it was a personal decision so he could spend more time with his family, which is very much understandable after he spent 8 years with "The Young and the Restless" and 11 years with "Criminal Minds."
When both Gibson and Moore were still on the show, there were about 14 million viewers but for season 12, the first five episodes did not even reach 8 million viewers, according to TV Ratings Finale. During the show's premiere, it had 19 million viewers. "Criminal Minds" was also included in the top programs since its debut.
But without Gibson and Moore, everything went down. It is noted that the two heartthrobs had been part of the show since season 1 before they left in season 12. Because of that, fans got attached to their character and are not happy about their absence. It is obvious that millions stopped watching the show but it appears that CBS doesn't have plans to bring back both stars in the show.
Even without them, there will still be "Criminal Minds" Season 12 or probably even Season 13, Inquisitr noted.
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