The popular crime drama “Criminal Minds” has sparked speculation among its dedicated fanbase as hints emerge that not all main cast members will return for the upcoming nineteenth season. This development has left viewers questioning which of their favorite profilers will continue hunting serial killers and which might be departing the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU).
The long-running series, which originally ran for 15 seasons on CBS before being revived as “Criminal Minds: Evolution” on Paramount+, has experienced numerous cast changes throughout its history. Now, as production for season 19 approaches, uncertainty surrounds the show’s ensemble.
Confirmed Returns and Possible Departures
While official announcements remain limited, several key cast members are expected to return. Joe Mantegna, who portrays the veteran profiler David Rossi, has shown strong commitment to the series throughout its run and is likely to continue. Similarly, A.J. Cook (Jennifer “JJ” Jareau) and Kirsten Vangsness (Penelope Garcia) have been mainstays since the early seasons.
Paget Brewster, who plays Emily Prentiss, returned for the revival after previously leaving and coming back to the original series. Her character’s leadership position in the BAU makes her return probable, though not guaranteed.
The status of newer team members remains less certain. Aisha Tyler (Dr. Tara Lewis), Adam Rodriguez (Luke Alvez), and Daniel Henney (Matt Simmons) joined the cast in later seasons, and their contracts might be up for renegotiation.
Behind the Scenes Factors
Several factors typically influence cast returns for television shows, including:
- Contract negotiations and salary discussions
- Scheduling conflicts with other projects
- Creative decisions regarding character arcs
- Production budget constraints
The revival series on Paramount+ operates under different financial parameters than the original CBS production, which could impact which actors return. Streaming platforms often work with different budget models than traditional network television.
Fan Reactions and Show’s Future
“Criminal Minds” maintains a passionate fanbase that has followed the show through its transition to streaming. Many viewers express concern about potential cast changes on social media platforms, with particular attachment to long-running characters.
“The chemistry between these characters is what makes the show special,” wrote one fan on Twitter. “It wouldn’t be the same without the full team.”
The show’s format has proven adaptable to cast changes in the past. Previous departures of major characters, including Shemar Moore’s Derek Morgan and Matthew Gray Gubler’s Spencer Reid, didn’t prevent the series from continuing successfully.
The revival series has already adjusted to working without some original cast members. Most notably, Matthew Gray Gubler did not return for “Criminal Minds: Evolution,” leaving a significant gap that the writers addressed through storylines about his character being on assignment.
Paramount+ has demonstrated confidence in the franchise by greenlighting additional seasons after the revival’s successful launch. The streaming service recognizes the show’s value in attracting subscribers who follow the series from its network television days.
As production for season 19 moves forward, more definitive announcements regarding the cast lineup are expected in the coming months. Until then, fans will continue to speculate about which profilers will return to track down the next unsub.
