That was what they have done to actress Jennifer Love-Hewitt when she went out after Season 10 and also the route taken by actor Shemar Moore when he decided to move out of the show after the 16th episode of Season 11.
So when Gibson was fired, the show simply made it appear that Hotch was assigned by the FBI someplace else on a temporary duty. He only appeared in the first two episodes of Season 12, which aired on September 28 and October 5.
However, on the third episode of the TV series, which aired on October 12, and the fourth episode, which aired on October 26, the producers noted a sharp decline in the viewership and ratings of “Criminal Minds” Season 12.
Apparently, the firing of Thomas Gibson had a negative impact on the show as his strong followers launched a boycott of the show on social media with their so called #NoHotchNoWatch movement.
The move was meant to call the attention of the producers to bring back the actor as he is one of the pillars of “Criminal Minds” and does not deserve to be fired for a slight misunderstanding and mild altercation.
Many fans and critics agree that Gibson’s incredible acting skills and his role as Hotch have been crucial in the continued success of the show that began way back in 2005.
NO HOTCH, NO WATCH