CBS' "Criminal Minds" original cast member Thomas Gibson may indefinitely be leaving the show. This move seems to be due to the temporary assignment duty of Aaron Hotcher. Last Wednesday's episode "Taboo" revealed Hotchner's special assignment, as per the director's request.

BAU member who is currently the Interpol unit chief, Emily Prentiss, was sent to help the team during Hotchner's absence. Prentiss worked together with JJ, Rossi, Luke Alves and others for the hunt of a serial killer.

Hotchner was supposed to be absent for only an episode or two. This is to satisfy Gibson's suspension during the occurrence of an on-set argument; however, this week has indicated his permanent departure in the series, since he was fired. For this reason, Paget Brewster, who is supposed to return for only a short period, has been considered for a full-time return.

Damon Gupton will take on the role of Stephen Walker this coming fall. His role is an experienced profiler who will be helping the BAU with his good spy-hunting capacity, according to TV Line.

Gibson has encountered a conflict with co-executive producer/writer Virgil Williams while filming the second episode of Season 12 during late of July. According to him, this was because he questioned a line of dialogue.

 Gibson accounted that when he was talking with his cast mates about their different opinion, Williams entered the room and started coming towards him. Gibson said that Williams brushed past him, and in turn, tapped William on the leg. The actor said that Williams would have run into him if he had not moved, Carter Matt has learned.

Gibson was with the show for more than 11 seasons already. So, the question is 'how will the show address this exit of the character Hotch?' Gibson said that he had made apology on the next day. He shot the scenes, but he was never able to get back. He was eventually fired on Aug. 12.