'Criminal Minds' News: Shemar Moore Returns to Save Show; Lowest Ratings in Show's History

"Criminal Minds" Season 12 is recording the lowest ratings in the series’ history. Not even Spencer Reid’s strong storyline is enough to keep its hold on the show’s once big audience. In what might be seen as a desperate move, it is about to bring in one of its best loved characters, Derek Morgan (Shemar Moore), to lure viewers of TV’s most successful drama back in.

CBS announced this week that Shemar Moore, an original cast member, will make his appearance in the May 10 episode of “Criminal Minds” Season 12 according to Deadline. His character will visit the BAU to provide them with a lead on the notorious serial killer and escaped convict, Mr. Scratch. This may probably have also something to do with Reid’s murder case.

Shemar Moore appeared in a total of 251 episodes before his exit last season reported CBS News. His character went through a lot of challenges in his family life that prompted his retirement from the BAU. Later, the actor admitted that his departure was made so he could be available to try on new things in his career. His latest gig is in another CBS drama pilot S.W.A.T. He is also said to be one of the producers of the new series, which is inspired by the 2003 movie. It was in turn based on the 1975 hit TV series by Aaron Spelling and Leonard Goldberg.

“Criminal Minds” Season 12 has turned to Matthew Gray Gubler’s storyline to keep the audience watching. Apparently, viewership for the season has been quite disappointing or hitting a slump at least. Maybe, Shemar Moore’s return will get the series a better reception from the viewers. Many fans are hoping that Thomas Gibson will make his own comeback. But, given the history of his departure, it seems unlikely at this point.