‘Criminal Minds’ Season 12 Spoilers: Hotch Still Missing On Episode 5; Fan Favorite Thomas Gibson No Longer Returning? Fans Continue Boycott

"Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 5 is the show's comeback after a two-week hiatus and it seems that some fans were not so satisfied with its return. This is because Thomas Gibson did not appear in the episode amidst rumors of his return as Aaron Hotchner. Should Hotch fans give up their hopes on seeing their favorite "Criminal Minds" character now?

"Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 5 was rumored to see the return of Gibson as Hotch but no traces of his character were seen in the episode, TV Fanatic reported. No hints were also given about Hotch' whereabouts in the show. That said, fans are advised to let rumors rest for now and just wait for an official announcement from the series producers.

"Criminal Minds" enthusiasts apparently hope that the show refrains from changing and removing characters. Additionally, many of the long-time viewers of the show believe that Gibson should be given the chance to stay as his character Hotch is effective and brings life on "Criminal Minds." Because of this, many of them are reportedly boycotting the show until the showrunners decide to bring Hotch back.

However, the producers of the show had to allegedly fire Gibson after a physical altercation between the actor and a writer of the show. Speculations then started to emerge online that Gibson's exit will be seen in the second episode of "Criminal Minds" Season 12. But until today, the actor is still not given an official goodbye and his character Hotch just disappeared in the following episodes with no further explanation about his absence.

Rumors surfaced that the producers are actually preparing a special episode that will give Gibson a flawless exit. The said episode is suggested to be aired this month. Moreover, "Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 5 was believed to be the special episode intended for Gibson according to Parent Herald but it turned out to be another episode without Hotch.

"Criminal Minds" Season 12 Episode 5 is still airing on CBS every Wednesday nights. In the meantime, check out the next episode in the clip here. Also, you can drop your thoughts in the comments section to let us know if you also want to see Gibson return on "Criminal Minds" Season 12.