Following the abrupt exit of Thomas Gibson, "Criminal Minds" is looking to add two new series regulars to board Season 12.
TV Line reported that the crime procedural will expand its cast in Season 12 in a bid to recover from the recent cast shakeup brought by Gibson's altercation with a series producer/writer. One of the characters is being eyed to replace Agent Hotch's role on the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU), while details about the other character are still under wraps. The duo will join previously cast Adam Rodriguez and Aisha Tyler, who has been promoted to series regular earlier this month.
In the wake of Gibson's firing, it is palpable that "Criminal Minds" is going through major changes in preparation for Season 12. Subsequently, it is expected that the behind-the-scenes drama will be felt as the show moves forward. The producers have yet to comment on how they plan to write out Gibson's character and reassemble the BAU team as new episodes roll-out this fall.
When viewers last tuned-in on Criminal Minds, a total of thirteen serial killers have escaped from prison. In the Season 12 premiere, it will be revealed that there are still five out there who are on the loose. The unfinished arc, according to executive producer Erica Messer, will launch the introduction of the new season's Big Bad.
"One of them is a guy Peter Lewis plays named Mr. Scratch," Messer told Entertainment Weekly.
"He is our baddie for the year. We will stretch him out and tell his creepy tales."
"Criminal Minds" Season 12 premieres on Wednesday, Sept. 28 on CBS.
