'Criminal Minds' Will Add Two New Stars Following Thomas Gibson's Firing

The casting shakeup continues over at "Criminal Minds," where the long-running CBS procedural is still dealing with the loss of original star Thomas Gibson after the actor was fired earlier this month. Now, a new report says that the show will try to fill the void left by the star by hiring two new series regulars.

TVLine has the scoop that producers are currently scrambling to expand the cast, and are looking to hire two actors, including one who will take over for Gibson's character, Hotchner, as team leader. Details about the other role being cast have not yet been revealed.

There's been no word yet on how "Criminal Minds" plans to address Gibson's firing, which occurred after the actor kicked a writer during production of an episode that Gibson was directing. Gibson was initially suspended, but his punishment was eventually stiffened to remove him from the show entirely, a decision that Gibson is reportedly mulling taking legal action over.

But whatever happens with a potential lawsuit, there's no chance the series will welcome him back anytime soon, and that means that the remaining cast members -- as well as new additions -- now need to step into more significant roles. Adam Rodriguez was previously announced as a new series regular for this upcoming 12th season, and the show recently welcomed Aisha Tyler (also promoted to series regular after debuting in season 11) and returning star Paget Brewster, who will be back for short stint this season.

Season 12 of "Criminal Minds" is still set to debut on CBS on September 28. We'll see how the show handles Gibson's abrupt departure -- and its new faces -- as the season unfolds.

[via: TVLine]

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