What Happens to Prentiss on Criminal Minds?
Criminal Minds is a popular American crime drama television series that aired from 2005 to 2020. The show follows a team of FBI agents, known as the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU), as they investigate and solve heinous crimes across the United States. One of the main characters, Emily Prentiss, played by Paget Brewster, is a significant part of the show’s narrative. So, what happens to Prentiss on Criminal Minds?
Who is Emily Prentiss?
Emily Prentiss is a former Russian mole and a high-ranking official at the CIA. She joins the BAU as an FBI agent, bringing her exceptional skills and expertise to the team. Throughout the series, Prentiss becomes an integral part of the team, working closely with the other agents to solve cases and catch criminals.
What Happens to Prentiss on Criminal Minds?
Season 4-5: Prentiss’ Departure
Prentiss’ story takes a dramatic turn in Season 4, when she is kidnapped by the villainous William Harrington, also known as the "Chosen One." After a tense and emotional season-long arc, Prentiss is eventually rescued, but not before she is forced to make a deal with the devil to save her life. In the season finale, Prentiss decides to leave the BAU, citing burnout and a need to take care of herself.
Season 6-7: Prentiss’ Return
After a two-year absence, Prentiss returns to the BAU in Season 6, bringing her unique skills and expertise back to the team. Her return is met with excitement and relief from her colleagues, who had grown accustomed to her absence. During this period, Prentiss faces personal struggles, including a tumultuous relationship with her former lover, Nick Ford.
Season 8-9: Prentiss’ Exit
In Season 8, Prentiss is approached by the CIA to work on a high-level operation. She is torn between her loyalty to the BAU and her commitment to her country. In the season finale, Prentiss makes the difficult decision to leave the BAU once again, this time for good.
Season 10-15: The Aftermath
After Prentiss’ departure, the BAU is left to adjust to her absence. The team faces new challenges and villains, but they never forget their dear colleague and friend. In Season 10, Prentiss is mentioned several times, with her colleagues reminiscing about her time at the BAU.
Table: Prentiss’ Time on Criminal Minds
| Season | Episodes | Storyline | Departure/Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-5 | 22 | Kidnapped and rescued | Left the BAU |
| 6-7 | 24 | Returned to the BAU | Continued as a member of the BAU |
| 8 | 24 | Left the BAU for good | Departed the BAU |
What Does Prentiss’ Departure Mean for the Show?
Prentiss’ departure from the show has a significant impact on the narrative and character development. Her absence leaves a void in the team, and the other agents struggle to adjust to her departure. However, her legacy lives on, and her colleagues continue to work together to solve cases and bring justice to the victims.
Conclusion
Emily Prentiss is an integral part of the Criminal Minds narrative, and her departure from the show is a significant event. From her initial kidnapping to her eventual return and subsequent departure, Prentiss’ story is a rollercoaster of emotions, drama, and action. As the show comes to a close, fans can’t help but wonder what would have happened if Prentiss had stayed with the BAU. Despite her departure, Prentiss will always be remembered as a beloved member of the team.
