Who Plays JJ 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 as they investigate and solve crimes across the United States. One of the main characters in the show is Jennifer "JJ" Jareau, a brilliant and resourceful FBI agent. But who plays JJ on Criminal Minds?
The Character of JJ
JJ is a significant character in the show, serving as the team’s liaison to the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). She is a skilled profiler and investigator who often provides crucial insights to the team. Throughout the series, JJ’s character undergoes significant development, revealing her personal struggles and emotional depth.
Aisha Tyler
The answer to who plays JJ on Criminal Minds is Aisha Tyler. Tyler is an American actress, comedian, and director who has appeared in numerous films and television shows. Born on September 18, 1970, in Santa Monica, California, Tyler began her career in the entertainment industry in the early 1990s.
Early Career
Before landing the role of JJ on Criminal Minds, Tyler had already established herself as a talented actress. She appeared in several films, including The Fifth Element (1997), For Your Consideration (2006), and Bedtime Stories (2008). Tyler also had recurring roles on television shows such as The District (2000-2001) and 24 (2003-2004).
Criminal Minds
Tyler joined the cast of Criminal Minds in 2007, playing the role of Jennifer "JJ" Jareau. She appeared in 235 episodes of the show, making her one of the longest-running cast members. Tyler’s portrayal of JJ earned her critical acclaim, with many praising her ability to bring depth and nuance to the character.
Other Work
In addition to her work on Criminal Minds, Tyler has continued to appear in various films and television shows. She has also worked as a director, helming episodes of The Eric Andre Show (2013) and Whose Line Is It Anyway? (2013-2014). Tyler has also lent her voice to several animated series, including Archer (2010-2014) and Star Wars: Forces of Destiny (2017-2018).
Awards and Nominations
Throughout her career, Tyler has received numerous awards and nominations for her work. She has been nominated for several NAACP Image Awards and People’s Choice Awards, and has won several Daytime Emmy Awards for her work on Whose Line Is It Anyway?.
Table: Aisha Tyler’s Notable Roles
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1997 | The Fifth Element | Leeloo |
| 2000-2001 | The District | Officer Francine "Frankie" Reed |
| 2003-2004 | 24 | Anna Paulsen |
| 2007-2020 | Criminal Minds | Jennifer "JJ" Jareau |
| 2010-2014 | Archer | Lana Kane |
| 2017-2018 | Star Wars: Forces of Destiny | Hera Syndulla |
Conclusion
Aisha Tyler’s portrayal of Jennifer "JJ" Jareau on Criminal Minds is a significant part of the show’s success. With her talent, charisma, and dedication to her craft, Tyler has become a beloved figure in the world of television. Whether she’s playing JJ or lending her voice to animated series, Aisha Tyler is an actress who consistently impresses audiences with her versatility and range.
