Criminal Minds: Evolution is making a highly anticipated return on Paramount+, bringing back the pulse-pounding drama that fans of the original series have loved for years. The revival, which premieres on November 24, will feature several familiar faces from the original cast, including Joe Mantegna as David Rossi, Paget Brewster as Emily Prentiss, Adam Rodriguez as Luke Alvez, A.J. Cook as Jennifer Jareau (JJ), Kirsten Vangsness as Penelope Garcia, and Aisha Tyler as Dr. Tara Lewis. This beloved team will once again join forces to hunt down dangerous criminals using their expertise in behavioral profiling.
However, fans will notice the absence of a few key members from the original cast. Matthew Gray Gubler, who portrayed the brilliant but socially awkward Dr. Spencer Reid, and Shemar Moore, who played the charismatic and tough Derek Morgan, will not be returning. Gubler, a fan favorite since the series’ inception, opted not to reprise his role in the reboot, while Moore is currently starring in another popular CBS drama, SWAT. In addition, Daniel Henney, who played Matt Simmons in the later seasons, will be absent due to other professional commitments.
Despite these notable absences, Criminal Minds: Evolution is expected to stay true to its original formula of psychological drama, intricate criminal investigations, and complex team dynamics. The revival will once again be overseen by Erica Messer, the original showrunner, which ensures continuity in the storytelling and character development that made the show so successful. Messer’s deep understanding of the characters and the show’s signature style promises to deliver the same suspense and emotional depth that longtime viewers have come to expect.
In this latest chapter, the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) will face some of their most dangerous and cunning criminals yet. Fans can expect the return of the intense criminal profiles and gripping investigations that made the original series a hit. The show’s trademark blend of action, tension, and personal drama among the team members will be central to the narrative, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they watch the team race against time to prevent further violence.
A key change in this reboot is the structure of the show. Criminal Minds: Evolution will feature a 10-episode season, a departure from the traditional 20+ episodes that the original series often delivered. This shorter season format allows for tighter, more focused storytelling, with each episode expected to be packed with action and suspense. The season will kick off on November 24, with new episodes airing weekly leading up to the midseason finale on December 15. The remaining episodes will air in early 2023, culminating in a climactic finish.
For both loyal fans of the original series and newcomers, Criminal Minds: Evolution promises to be a gripping return to the world of criminal profiling. The absence of beloved characters may be bittersweet, but the strong return of core members and the leadership of Erica Messer ensure that the series will retain its emotional depth and high-stakes tension. With its premiere just around the corner, Criminal Minds: Evolution is set to offer a thrilling ride for crime drama enthusiasts and reaffirm its place as a must-watch series.
As the BAU team tackles new cases, old and new fans alike can look forward to a season that blends the best elements of the original with fresh, exciting developments. Criminal Minds: Evolution is poised to capture the same excitement and intrigue that made the original series a beloved hit.
