The smooth transition of "Criminal Minds" from season 11 to 12 has been marred by arguably the biggest casting change in the police procedural thus far. Thomas Gibson who plays Behavioral Analysis Unit chief Aaron Hotchner was suddenly sacked from the job that he has had since the series made its debut in mid-2000. The reason for CBS' decision roots from an altercation with show writer Virgil Williams after the actor allegedly kicked the staff member.
A couple of months since the unfortunate incident that happened while filming episode 2 of the current season and with Gibson already done giving his side of the story, Williams comes out to share his version in an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE magazine.
"He came to me with a line change that he wanted. Because of this particular episode, the change that he wanted hurt the story," he recalled. "I offered him a fix. He didn't accept the fix. He said, 'Fix it so I'm happy' and then walked off."
The disagreement checks out with Gibson's story, but the 54-year-old claimed that Williams was the one who stormed towards him and if he had not moved, he would have been railroaded by the writer. While in motion, the actor's foot stuck out and hit Williams.
Regardless of what happened exactly, it is not a secret that everyone including the TV producer had a hard time coming to terms with Hotch no longer being a part of the BAU moving forward. The fact that no farewell episode was filmed makes it a lot more difficult for the show's narrative to explain his exit.
"It hasn't been smooth," Williams admitted. "It was very abrupt. But we tried to do it seamlessly and move on. We're going to keep moving forward and we're going to keep telling great stories."
While he does not necessarily see himself working with the actor anytime soon, the writer has no ill feelings towards Gibson.
"I pray for him. I hope that he's getting time with his family. I hope the best for the guy," Williams added.
Meanwhile, tonight's installment titled "Elliott's Pond" will have the team investigating the recent disappearance of three children who went out to ride their bicycles. Making the case a bit more complex is the angle that this development may have something to do with a cold case from three decades ago. The episode marks the return of cast member Matthew Gray Gubler, who plays Dr. Spencer Reid, behind the camera as a director.
"Criminal Minds" season 12 airs every Wednesday, 9 p.m. ET.
