The BAU team on Criminal Minds has faced a lot of different challenges and twists over the years, but this is one no one could have ever expected.

Thomas Gibson, who plays Aaron Hotchner, in the popular CBS drama has been fired from the show and will not be returning for its twelfth season.

Gibson was originally suspended for kicking one of the show’s writers during filming and directing of an episode of the popular crime show, because of reported creative differences. Not even 24 hours later, Gibson was officially fired.

“I love Criminal Minds and have put my heart and soul into it for the last twelve years. I had hoped to see it through to the end, but that won’t be possible now,” stated Gibson after his official departure from the show. “I would like to say thank you to the writers, producers, actors, our amazing crew, and, most importantly, the best fans that a show could ever hope to have.”

The twelfth season was already going to see changes to the team. With Shemar Moore, who played Derek Morgan, leaving at the end of the previous season; Aisha Tyler, who plays Dr. Tara Lewis, being promoted to a regular; and Adam Rodriguez joining as a new agent. Another change that fans have been looking forward to, is the return of Paget Brewster’s character, Emily Prentiss, which will take place for one episode.

Thomas Gibson has played Aaron Hotchner since the show’s debut in 2005, with over 200 episodes under his belt. Hotchner not only has been a fan favorite, but also the reliable leader the whole team could turn to when cases got difficult.

The character’s fate will be addressed later in the future, but for the show’s fans, only time will tell how the members of the team will do in the upcoming season without Hotchner.

The twelfth season of Criminal Minds will be returning September 28th on CBS.