Will There Be Another Season of Criminal Minds?
The question on every fan’s mind – will there be another season of the popular crime drama series, Criminal Minds? The show, which has been a staple on CBS for over 15 years, has captivated audiences with its gripping storylines, complex characters, and intricate mysteries. So, what’s the latest on the show’s future? Let’s dive in and find out.
What’s the Current Status?
As of now, the 15th and final season of Criminal Minds ended on February 19, 2020, concluding the show’s run after 15 years. However, rumors have been circulating about a potential reboot or spin-off. So, is there hope for a new season?
Recent Developments
In April 2020, showrunner Erica Messer expressed interest in revisiting the series, stating: "I would love to revisit the world of Criminal Minds." Although there’s no official announcement, this comment suggests that the door is still open for a potential new season.
Fan Petition
Fans have taken to social media, creating a petition to revive the show. With over 50,000 signatures, this show of support demonstrates the widespread enthusiasm for a new season. However, this petition alone is not a guarantee of a new season, but it does demonstrate the dedication of the fan base.
Potential Options
If a new season does become a reality, there are several options to consider:
- Reboot: A reboot would allow for a fresh start, with new characters and storylines while maintaining the core elements that made the original show so successful.
- Spin-off: A spin-off could focus on a specific character or team, such as the BAU (Behavioral Analysis Unit) or the FBI. This would allow for new stories while still honoring the original series.
- Prequel: A prequel would explore the backstory of the characters, revealing the events that shaped them before the original series.
Table: Potential Options
| Option | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reboot | Fresh start with new characters and storylines | New beginning, possibility for new creative direction | Loss of existing characters, may alienate original fans |
| Spin-off | Focus on a specific character or team | New stories, possibility for new characters and actors | May not retain same level of popularity, could be seen as secondary |
| Prequel | Explore characters’ backstory | Rich storytelling potential, fan engagement | May not be as engaging for new viewers, limited scope |
Cast Availability
One of the significant factors influencing a potential new season is the availability of the main cast. Many of the original cast members have gone on to pursue other projects or have retired from acting. Matthew Gray Gubler (Dr. Spencer Reid) and A.J. Cook (Jennifer "JJ" Jareau) are the only two main cast members who have remained consistent throughout the series.
Table: Main Cast Members’ Current Projects
| Cast Member | Current Projects |
|---|---|
| Matthew Gray Gubler | Directing and producing, not currently acting |
| A.J. Cook | Acted in various TV shows and movies, including a Netflix series |
| Joe Mantegna | Continued to act in TV and film, including a Star Trek series |
| Paget Brewster | Starred in TV shows, including a sitcom and a crime drama |
| Shemar Moore | Acted in TV shows and movies, including a lead role in a new series |
| Adam Rodriguez | Starred in TV shows and movies, including a TV series based on his childhood |
Conclusion
While there’s no concrete answer on whether there will be another season of Criminal Minds, there are signs that the show may not be entirely dead. The recent comments from the showrunner and fan petition demonstrate the continued enthusiasm for the series. If a new season does become a reality, a reboot or spin-off could be viable options. The availability of the main cast members may be a factor in the show’s future, but the door is still open for a potential new season.
