Thomas Gibson on ‘Criminal Minds’ firing: ‘I’m disappointed’

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 18 (UPI) — Thomas Gibson says he’s disappointed but optimistic following his firing from Criminal Minds.

The 54-year-old actor, who played Aaron Hotchner on the CBS series for 11 seasons, addressed his exit in a series of posts after joining Twitter this week.

“I wish I could thank each of you for your friendship & support. I love ‘Criminal Minds,’ & I’m disappointed by what’s happened,” Gibson wrote.

“I’m here on #Twitter so we can stay connected in the days to come,” he added. “The support you show means the world to me and my family. This is not an ending, but a beginning as well. Thank you all.”

Gibson was formally “dismissed” from Criminal Minds in a statement from CBS on Friday. The actor was initially suspended from the show after reportedly kicking a writer during a creative dispute.

“I love Criminal Minds and have put my heart and soul into it for the last 12 years,” he said after his firing. “I had hoped to see it through to the end, but that won’t be possible now.”

“I would just 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 star added.

TMZ reported Thursday that Virgil Williams, the writer involved in the altercation, allegedly threatened a female production assistant in 2006. Sources said Gibson may try to use the information if he pursues legal action over his firing.