Since Shemar Moore's exit, fans are feeling the void, and the showrunners of Criminal Minds will need to address that soon.

There is already talk of a few likely candidates for Derek Morgan's (Shemar Moore) job.

The most recent rumor suggested Paget Brewster (Emily Prentiss) as a replacement.

Brewster is also set to guest star in the next episode, entitled 'Tribute.' In a recent interview with TVLine showrunner Erica Messer dished about Prentiss' return on the CBS procedural. Interpol Agent Prentiss's services will be needed in case involving a serial killer she has been trying to get to, who was essentially overseas, and is now back on home turf. She will join forces with the BAU to tackle this menace.

"She has been dealing with a copycat killer that she came really close to catching in London, where he was copying Jack the Ripper," Messer said. "She was kind of having nightmares about this guy and the fact that he eluded her, so she has been on high alert to see where he pops up next, because he has a very clear killing pattern."

According to Messer, as soon as Prentiss finds out that the BAU is onto this guy, Prentiss is completely on board, "I would love to come help you catch this guy."

Messer also expressed her excitement at getting Brewster back on the show, and how her schedule freed up at the right time, with production for Grandfathered completed.

"I'mso excited that we get her finally," Messer said. "And the timing couldn't have been more perfect," given that longtime team member Derek Morgan just delivered a round of sad goodbyes after deciding to quit the FBI and be a family man. "We really wanted to do something big after Shemar [Moore] left," says the EP, "and there's nothing greater than bringing back our sweet Emily Prentiss."

Another worthy candidate that could be considered for the job is Aisha Tyler, who plays a recurring part as Dr. Lewis on the show. Perhaps Tyler might be taken on as a series regular now.

For now, all executive producer Erica Messer has revealed that she hopes Tyler will be back for season 12 of the show. "That is my hope," Messer told TVLine. "I love her."

'Tribute' will air on March 30 on CBS.

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Criminal Minds, CBS, Shemar moore