Did Matthew Gray Gubler Leave Criminal Minds?
Criminal Minds is a popular American crime drama television series that aired from 2005 to 2020. The show followed a team of FBI agents as they investigated and analyzed crimes, and one of the main characters was Dr. Spencer Reid, played by Matthew Gray Gubler. Over the course of the show’s 15 seasons, fans grew attached to Reid’s character, and many wondered what happened to him after the show ended. In this article, we’ll answer the question: did Matthew Gray Gubler leave Criminal Minds?
Early Days of the Show
Criminal Minds premiered on September 22, 2005, and quickly gained a large following. The show was created by Jeff Davis and starred Joe Mantegna, Paget Brewster, Shemar Moore, and Thomas Gibson, among others. Dr. Spencer Reid, a genius and socially awkward forensic scientist, was introduced in the show’s first season. Gubler’s portrayal of Reid earned him critical acclaim and a large fan base.
Matthew Gray Gubler’s Contract
Gubler’s contract with the show was initially for a five-year period, which expired after the show’s sixth season. However, in 2012, Gubler signed a new contract to remain with the show for another five years. This extension ensured that Reid would remain a main character for at least two more seasons.
Departure from the Show
After the show’s 11th season, Gubler announced that he would be leaving the show. His decision was reportedly amicable, and he thanked the show’s creators, writers, and cast members for the opportunity to play Dr. Spencer Reid.
Why Did Matthew Gray Gubler Leave?
Gubler cited several reasons for his departure from the show. One reason was his desire to focus on his art career. As a talented painter, Gubler had always wanted to pursue his passion for art, and the show’s grueling filming schedule made it difficult for him to do so. He also wanted to expand his range as an actor and take on roles that were more challenging and diverse.
What Happened to Dr. Spencer Reid?
After Gubler’s departure, the show’s writers incorporated his character’s exit into the storyline. In the show’s 12th season, Reid was transferred to a remote location to work on a top-secret project, effectively writing him out of the show. His character remained a part of the show, but only appeared in a few episodes.
Did Matthew Gray Gubler Leave Because of Salary Dispute?
There were rumors that Gubler left the show due to a salary dispute. However, both Gubler and the show’s producers denied this. In an interview, Gubler stated that he was happy with his salary and that his decision to leave was purely based on his desire to focus on his art and take on new challenges as an actor.
Table: Matthew Gray Gubler’s Contract and Departure
| Year | Contract | Departure |
|---|---|---|
| 2005-2010 | Initial 5-year contract | N/A |
| 2012-2017 | 5-year extension | N/A |
| 2017 | Amicable departure | Yes |
Conclusion
Matthew Gray Gubler’s departure from Criminal Minds was a result of his desire to focus on his art career and expand his range as an actor. Despite rumors of a salary dispute, both Gubler and the show’s producers denied this. Gubler’s character, Dr. Spencer Reid, remained a part of the show, albeit in a reduced capacity. The show’s writers cleverly incorporated his exit into the storyline, and his departure did not disrupt the show’s continuity.
