Thomas Gibson (born July 3, 1962) is an American actor and director, best known for his roles as Dr. Daniel Nyland on the medical drama Chicago Hope and as Special Agent Aaron Hotchner on the crime drama Criminal Minds. Born in Charleston, South Carolina, he studied drama at the College of Charleston and later at the Juilliard School. His career began in theater before transitioning to television. He received an Emmy nomination for his work on Chicago Hope. On Criminal Minds, he also directed multiple episodes. Despite his professional success, his tenure on the show ended in 2016 due to a physical altercation on set. Gibson remains a recognized figure in American television.