‘Criminal Minds’ Season 12 Latest Spoilers, News: Thomas Gibson To Return For Good? Will Hotch Remain As BAU Chief? See Details Inside

"Criminal Minds" Season 12 is speculated to finally see the return of Thomas Gibson as Aaron Hotchner. The fifth episode is suggested to showcase the comeback of Hotch in the series. Could Gibson be rehired and remain a series regular again?

"Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 5 is suggested to see Hotch again as he takes part in the newly formed squad of Agent Emily Prentiss (Paget Brewster), David Rossi (Joe Mantegna) and JJ (AJ Cook). The new episode was directed by Erica Messer along with Matthew Gray Gubler who is also part of the series as Dr. Spencer Reid, Cartermatt reported. Rumors surfaced that this is where fans could see the return of Hotch.

"Criminal Minds" Season 12 has been rumored to have a special episode to give Gibson a proper exit. Reports claimed that the said episode will be a collaboration of Messer and Gubler. The special episode is also expected to air this month, Parent Herald reported.

That said, "Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 5 is speculated to be the special episode that will highlight Gibson's exit. However, recent speculations have emerged online claiming that Gibson will be back for good and it is not just temporary this time. The news came following reports of plummeting ratings as fans boycott the show because of the removal of Gibson's character, TheGamersDrop reported.

Gibson's return has not been discussed nor announced by CBS yet. Since Gibson's character has not been written off the script permanently, his comeback is still possible. However, with no words and statements from the producers and showrunner of "Criminal Minds" Season 12, fans may take such speculations with a grain of salt for now.

"Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 5 returns on CBS on Nov. 9. In the meantime, let us know your thoughts on the comeback of Chief Hotchner on "Criminal Minds" Season 12. You can also watch the preview of the new "Criminal Minds" Season 12 episode below.