Jack, portrayed by Cade Owens, is the only son of SSA Aaron Hotchner (Thomas Gibson) and his wife, Haley (Meredith Monroe). He is born during the first season of the show. When Aaron and Haley split, Jack will live with his mother. Absorbed by his job, Hotch doesn't have much time to spend with his son, but he does all he can to make sure Jack doesn't grow estranged.During the 100th episode, Haley is murdered by the Boston Reaper. Jack is spared because his father tells him over the phone to 'work the case', which is a code between the two of them. Jack 'works the case' by hiding in a large blanket lined trunk in his father's office. Jack is discovered by his bloody and battered father there after Hotchner kills the Reaper.Upon Haley's death, Jack lives with his father. His aunt Jessica, Haley's sister, is heavily involved in his life. When Hotch has to leave town for a case, Jessica cares for Jack.