When Thomas Gibson was removed from CBS’ “Criminal Minds” the crime drama saw a decline in viewership and has been facing ugly criticisms. His strong followers went as far as staging a boycott with the infamous #NoHotchNoWatch. The protest aims to call the attention of the show’s management to bring back the actor as BAU Unit Chief Aaron Hotchner.
It is not unknown to many that Gibson’s incredible acting skills and his role are crucial in the show that premiered in 2005.
Rumors have it that the highly anticipated return of Hotch will come to fruition to boost the ratings of the soap and because of the demands of his fans. Gibson’s alleged comeback will be seen in episode 5 of the current season titled “Elliot’s Pond.” The impending episode will feature the newly formed Anti-terrorist team with Prentiss, Alvez, Rossi and JJ on board.
The same report noted that the upcoming episode will be penned by Erica Messer and directed by Matthew Gray Gubler. The duo is believed to produce thrilling storylines and having Gibson reappear in “Criminal Minds” is but a brilliant idea.
Although the network has not confirmed its supposed rehiring of Gibson, chances are high that the famous celebrity will reprise his role anytime soon.
A site mentioned that the entire cast and crew of “Criminal Minds” treated each other like a “tight-knit family.” Gibson along with Matthew Gray Gubler, Kirsten Vangsness, Shemar Moore, Paget Brewster, Joe Mantegna, and A.J. Cook got along just fine prior to the controversial incident.
“The cast and crew are a very solid, tight-knit family … I’m sure it’s going to be resolved, [Gibson and Virgil] will post a photo together … they’ve known each other for 12 years, and they’re together for 12 hours a day. Things happen,” the source said.
To recall, Gibson was surprisingly fired from the series following an on-set altercation with writer/producer Virgil Williams. Gibson's camp released an official statement stating creative differences as the main cause of his conflict with the showrunner.
While ABC, CBS, Gibson and Williams are yet to comment on the current issues thrown at them and the soap, everyone is hoping that their long-time happy relationship will be brought back.
