Criminal Minds has completed its 20th season, although the returning cast does not include every familiar face. The crime drama, which premiered in 2005, follows FBI profilers working in the Behavioral Analysis Unit as they investigate fictional cases and use behavioral analysis to identify unknown subjects.
After the original series ended in 2020, Paramount+ revived the franchise as Criminal Minds: Evolution. Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness, Aisha Tyler, Adam Rodriguez and Paget Brewster returned to their roles, while Matthew Gray Gubler’s Spencer Reid appeared in cameos.
Zach Gilford’s Elias Voit, introduced as the central antagonist in the first season of Evolution, was ultimately written out before season 20. The BAU had linked Voit to 62 murders and identified him as the architect of an online network of serial killers. His future was left uncertain after severe memory loss changed how he was viewed by the characters.
Gilford discussed the possibility of returning in July 2026, saying he was not filming season 20 and that saying goodbye had been difficult. He described Voit as one of his favorite characters and said he appreciated being able to portray different sides of the role, including a form of redemption before the character’s departure.
The actor also said he left the set quietly after sensing that his final take had arrived, rather than formally saying goodbye to the cast and crew.
Several core characters do return in season 20. Joe Mantegna reprises his role as David Rossi, a part he assumed after Mandy Patinkin’s departure from the original series. A.J. Cook returns as JJ, who continues to mourn her husband, while Kirsten Vangsness is back as Garcia.
Aisha Tyler returns as Tara, and Ryan-James Hatanaka continues as Tyler. Adam Rodriguez reprises his role as Luke, who is also dealing with a loss. Paget Brewster returns as Emily Prentiss, who remains alive and well during the final season.
Sources: Us Weekly.