NEW YORK (AP) - Mandy Patinkin is leaving CBS' ''Criminal Minds,'' saying his departure is the result of creative differences. Patinkin, 54, asked to be released from his role as FBI profiler Jason Gideon last week, CBS Paramount Network Television and series producer ABC Studios said Monday in a statement.

His exit will be explained in an early episode this fall and wasn't related to a contract renegotiation or salary issues, the statement said. A new character will be added to the show, which debuted in 2005.

In a separate statement, Patinkin said his departure was the result of ''creative differences'' but didn't elaborate.

Patinkin won an Emmy for best actor in 1995 for his portrayal of Dr. Jeffrey Geiger in the CBS medical series ''Chicago Hope.'' His films include ''The Princess Bride'' and ''Dick Tracy.''

Copyright 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.