When Does JJ Leave Criminal Minds?
Introduction
Criminal Minds is a popular American crime drama television series that aired on CBS for 15 seasons from 2005 to 2020. The show follows a team of FBI agents as they investigate and solve crimes across the United States. One of the main characters, Emily Prentiss, played by Paget Brewster, leaves the show after Season 6. But when does JJ leave Criminal Minds?
Who is JJ?
Alec Bernardi, known as Jennifer "JJ" Jarvis, is a supervisory special agent with the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). Played by A.J. Cook, JJ is a dedicated and skilled agent who often works closely with the rest of the team. JJ’s character is known for her calm and collected demeanor, as well as her expertise in profiling and behavior analysis.
JJ’s Character Development
Throughout the series, JJ’s character undergoes significant development, exploring her personal life, relationships, and struggles. Her character is often highlighted as a strong and dedicated professional, but also vulnerable and sensitive. JJ’s character is also known for her close relationships with her colleagues, particularly Reid and Garcia.
Why Does JJ Leave the Show?
JJ’s departure from the show occurs after Season 5. The reason for her departure is due to A.J. Cook’s contract negotiations with the show’s producers. Cook had been with the show since its inception in 2005, and her contract was set to expire. Unfortunately, the negotiations broke down, and Cook decided to leave the show. Her character’s exit was written into the storylines, with JJ transferring to the U.S. Marshal Service.
JJ’s Last Episode
JJ’s final episode is "Our Darkest Hour", which is the Season 5 finale. The episode is a cliffhanger, with JJ being called away to the U.S. Marshal Service and the team dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic case.
Table: JJ’s Character Development
| Season | Notable Moments |
|---|---|
| 1-5 | JJ’s introduction as a strong and dedicated professional, close relationships with colleagues |
| 6-8 | JJ’s struggles with her personal life, particularly her relationship with Reid |
| 9-15 | JJ’s transformation into a more confident and independent individual |
Reception and Impact
JJ’s departure from the show received mixed reactions from fans. Some were sad to see her go, while others were excited to see the new dynamics and developments that would come with her character’s exit. However, A.J. Cook’s return in Season 7 was well-received, and JJ’s character continued to be a significant part of the show.
Conclusion
JJ leaves Criminal Minds after Season 5, with her character transferring to the U.S. Marshal Service. The reason for her departure is due to A.J. Cook’s contract negotiations with the show’s producers. Despite her initial exit, JJ’s character makes a return in Season 7, and her storyline continues to be an integral part of the show.
Timeline of JJ’s Character
- Season 1-5: JJ is a main character and a key member of the BAU team
- Season 6: JJ leaves the BAU and transfers to the U.S. Marshal Service
- Season 7: JJ returns to the BAU, having been called back to assist with a case
- Season 8-15: JJ remains a main character, continuing to play a significant role in the show
Bullet Points:
• JJ leaves the show after Season 5
• A.J. Cook’s contract negotiations with the producers broke down, leading to her departure
• JJ transfers to the U.S. Marshal Service
• JJ’s final episode is "Our Darkest Hour", the Season 5 finale
• JJ returns to the BAU in Season 7
• JJ remains a main character throughout Season 8-15
