Patinkin Departs "Criminal Minds"

"Criminal Minds" star Mandy Patinkin has asked to be released from his role on the CBS show, the network announced Monday. The actor said in a statement that his departure was due to "creative differences."

"We have honored this request, which was not in any way connected to contract renegotiations or salary issues," ABC Studios and CBS Paramount Network Television said in a statement.

"Due to creative differences, Mandy has asked not to return to 'Criminal Minds' this season," a statement from the actor said. "Mandy would like to thank the studios and network for releasing him from the series and wishes the cast and crew continued success in all of their endeavors, and he looks forward to continuing to work with the Disney and CBS companies in other capacities in the future."

Patinkin's departure from the drama will be explained to audiences in an episode to be filmed in the near future and broadcast early next season, the network said. In addition, a new character will be added to the series next season.

Patinkin has played Jason Gideon on "Criminal Minds" since its premiere in 2005. The drama also stars Shemar Moore and Thomas Gibson.