Evolution Return Depends On One Thing

Shemar Moore isn't done with his "S.W.A.T." duties just yet. CBS initially canceled the series following Season 6, but in a surprise move, the network ended up renewing the show for one final season consisting of 13 episodes. The WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes in 2023 delayed production, but "S.W.A.T." Season 7 will finally come to airwaves on February 16.

What does this mean for Moore's prospective return to "Criminal Minds?" Paget Brewster, who plays Emily Prentiss on the procedural, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, on January 15: "We start shooting season 2 of ⁦⁦["Criminal Minds: Evolution"] tomorrow!" There's a good chance "Criminal Minds: Evolution" could still be filming by the time "S.W.A.T." Season 7 wraps, giving Moore an opportunity to film something quick to bring Derek Morgan back to people's screens. If nothing else, "S.W.A.T." ending soon means Moore's schedule could open up in the near future, allowing him to do something for "Criminal Minds: Evolution" Season 3 and beyond (assuming the show lasts that long).

However, Moore's also said he's not counting out "S.W.A.T." ending in 2024. He told Entertainment Tonight that "the door is not completely closed" when it comes to more "S.W.A.T." although he's not aware of plans for Season 8. It would be great to see the actor come back to the world of "Criminal Minds," but even if he doesn't, he's highly in-demand. He'll be around in one way or another.