Criminal Minds Adds Damon Gupton as New Series Regular in Wake of Thomas Gibson's Departure

Gupton will make his first appearance in the eighth episode of the season

It looks like the BAU may have just found their Hotchkiss replacement.

CBS announced that Damon Gupton has joined the cast of Criminal Minds as a series regular in the wake of original cast member Thomas Gibson's firing following a physical altercation on set. He'll make his first appearance in the eighth episode of season 12 as Special Agent Stephen Walker, a seasoned profiler from the Behavioral Analysis Program (aka the counterintelligence division of the FBI) who will bring his spy-hunting skill set to the BAU.

"Our BAU family is growing," showrunner Erica Messer said in a statement.  "We're excited to have Damon join the show and work alongside our amazing cast and crew."

Gupton's TV credits include roles on Bates Motel, Empire, and upcoming series Goliath. Fun fact: Before embarking on his acting career, he toured the country as a symphony conductor.

The casting marks the latest in a string of cast changes the show has undergone this season. Aside from the void left by Gibson's departure, Adam Rodriguez joined the series as a regular to replace Shemar Moore, who left the show in March after 11 seasons. Paget Brewster, who was returning for a brief arc as Emily Prentiss, was promoted back to series regular, as well.

Criminal Minds airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. on CBS.