Who is Sydney to JJ on Criminal Minds?
Introduction
Criminal Minds is a popular American television series that follows a team of FBI agents as they investigate and solve heinous crimes across the United States. One of the central characters in the show is Jennifer "JJ" Jarreau, played by A.J. Cook, and her romantic partner, Sydney, played by Meredith Monroe. But who is Sydney to JJ?
JJ’s Past
Before delving into the relationship between JJ and Sydney, it’s essential to understand JJ’s past. Jennifer Jarreau was introduced in Season 1 of the show as a newly promoted BAU agent, and throughout the series, her character underwent significant development. JJ’s backstory revealed a traumatic experience in her past, including the murder of her brother and a close relationship with her mother, Diana Reid, played by Janeane Garofalo.
Sydney and JJ’s Relationship
Sydney and JJ’s relationship began in Season 1, Episode 14, "No Way Out, Part II." At the time, JJ was struggling to come to terms with her brother’s murder, and Sydney, who was working as a victim’s advocate, helped JJ deal with her emotions. The two began a romantic relationship, and their relationship progressed slowly but surely throughout the series.
The Significant Moments in Their Relationship
Here are some significant moments in Sydney and JJ’s relationship:
• "No Way Out, Part II" (Season 1, Episode 14): Sydney helps JJ deal with her brother’s murder, and their romance begins.
• "DIDO" (Season 1, Episode 17): Sydney reveals her troubled past to JJ, including her experiences with abuse and neglect.
• "Lucky" (Season 2, Episode 2): Sydney and JJ’s relationship is put to the test when Sydney is kidnapped and JJ must confront her feelings for her partner.
• "Fear and Loathing" (Season 4, Episode 23): Sydney and JJ face a challenge when they must confront their own mortality during a tense standoff.
Sydney’s Importance in JJ’s Life
Sydney was more than just a romantic partner to JJ. She was a source of strength, support, and understanding. Here are some reasons why Sydney was crucial to JJ’s life:
• Emotional Support: Sydney provided emotional support to JJ, helping her to deal with her past traumas and personal struggles.
• Stability: Sydney brought stability to JJ’s life, providing a sense of normalcy and comfort.
• Understanding: Sydney understood JJ’s past and present, and this understanding allowed them to form a deep bond.
Sydney’s Absence and Aftermath
Unfortunately, Meredith Monroe left the show in 2011, and her character, Sydney, was written out of the series. The impact of Sydney’s departure was significant, and JJ was deeply affected by her loss. The aftermath of Sydney’s absence was felt throughout the remaining seasons of the show, with JJ struggling to come to terms with the end of their relationship.
Conclusion
Sydney was a significant figure in JJ’s life, serving as a romantic partner, source of support, and source of understanding. Their relationship was complex, and they faced numerous challenges throughout their time on the show. While Sydney is no longer a part of the Criminal Minds cast, her legacy lives on through the impact she had on JJ’s character development and the overall storylines of the show.
