SWAT season 3 stages a Criminal Minds reunion for Shemar Moore

With Criminal Minds done with filming for its final season, we are hoping that there are going to be some opportunities to see cast members rejoin Shemar Moore on SWAT here and there. While Rochelle Aytes may not have been a longtime cast members of the CBS procedural like Moore was prior to play Hondo, she did have a big ten-episode arc as Derek Morgan’s love interest … and she’s gearing up for a good one now over on SWAT.

According to a new report right now via TVLine, Aytes could be playing another potential love interest for Shemar. This time around, her character is Nichelle, and she comes from an upper middle-class family in Baldwin Hills. She’s had a good life, but wants to give back to those who have struggled. She runs a community center in south Los Angeles.

So how do these two characters cross paths? It sounds as though it comes via a traffic accident, and as Hondo starts to catch feelings, he soon realizes that it’s not going to be altogether easy to win her over. Why is that? Well, it has a good bit to do with his own history of not having a lot of long-term relationships.

In breaking down this casting further, Aaron Rahsaan Thomas (executive producer) had the following to say:

“Nichelle presents a unique opportunity for Hondo; a love interest who inspires him to pursue her attention, while trying to convince her that he is ready for a more serious relationship, despite his reputation. Whether or not Hondo will be successful, we’ll have to wait and see.”

We know Hondo often achieves what he puts his mind to … but it’s fair to say that this is not a typical situation for him.

Aytes has been around the CBS world for a little while now, as she is coming on board SWAT after previously having an arc over on Hawaii Five-0 as a former love-turned-adversary for Steve McGarrett. We’re also going to personally remember her for her run over on Mistresses. You’ll see Nichelle stop by SWAT for the first time a little bit later this month; for some other news all about it, be sure to visit the link here.

What do you think about Rochelle Aytes coming on board SWAT season 3, and reuniting with Shemar Moore?

Be sure to share right now in the comments, and remember to stick around for some other coverage. (Photo: CBS.)