When Does Aubrey Plaza Join Criminal Minds?
Aubrey Plaza is an American actress, comedian, and producer who has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry with her unique sense of humor and versatility in playing various roles. One of her most notable roles is as Lenny Wosniak in the popular TV series Parks and Recreation. However, many fans may wonder when she joined the popular crime drama series Criminal Minds.
A Brief Overview of Criminal Minds
Criminal Minds is a crime drama television series that premiered in 2005 and ran for 15 seasons until its conclusion in 2020. The show follows a team of FBI agents, known as the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU), as they investigate and solve crimes across the United States. The team is led by Aaron Hotchner (played by Thomas Gibson) and includes Derek Morgan (played by Shemar Moore), Penelope Garcia (played by Kirsten Vangsness), and Emily Prentiss (played by Paget Brewster), among others.
Aubrey Plaza’s Career Before Criminal Minds
Before joining Criminal Minds, Aubrey Plaza had already established herself as a talented young actress. She began her career in the early 2000s, appearing in small roles in TV shows and films. Her breakthrough role came in 2009 when she played the lead character, April Ludgate, in the NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and a nomination for a Critics’ Choice Television Award.
When Does Aubrey Plaza Join Criminal Minds?
After a successful run on Parks and Recreation, Aubrey Plaza joined the cast of Criminal Minds in its 12th season, which premiered in 2016. She played the role of Madeline "Maddie" Kessler, a serial killer who is also a genius and a master manipulator. Plaza’s character was introduced in the season premiere, "The Apprentice," and appeared in several episodes throughout the season.
Aubrey Plaza’s Performance in Criminal Minds
Aubrey Plaza’s performance in Criminal Minds received positive reviews from critics and fans alike. Her portrayal of Madeline Kessler was praised for its complexity and depth, showcasing her character’s intelligence, cunning, and vulnerability. Plaza’s chemistry with the rest of the cast was also praised, particularly with Joe Mantegna, who played David Rossi, a veteran FBI agent.
Table: Aubrey Plaza’s Episodes in Criminal Minds
| Episode Title | Season | Air Date |
|---|---|---|
| The Apprentice | 12 | September 21, 2016 |
| Drive | 12 | September 28, 2016 |
| The Bond | 12 | October 5, 2016 |
| A Thousand Suns | 12 | October 12, 2016 |
| Broken Wing | 12 | October 19, 2016 |
Conclusion
Aubrey Plaza joined the cast of Criminal Minds in its 12th season, playing the role of Madeline Kessler, a serial killer and genius. Her performance received positive reviews from critics and fans, showcasing her character’s complexity and depth. If you’re a fan of Aubrey Plaza or Criminal Minds, be sure to check out her episodes in the show!
Additional Reading
- Parks and Recreation: Aubrey Plaza’s breakout role as April Ludgate
- Criminal Minds: A comprehensive guide to the show’s 15 seasons
- Aubrey Plaza’s Filmography: A list of her notable film and TV appearances
