Just when fans thought they would no longer see Criminal Minds after CBS ended the series in 2020, it returned with Criminal Minds Season 16 on Paramount+. With the show's return, who among the fan-favorite characters will make a comeback, too?
Showrunner Erica Messer reveals the original returning characters to the series now that it will be part of the streaming platform Paramount+. Officially titled Criminal Minds: Evolution, here are the stars who will be part of the revival series.
The Returning Characters to Criminal Minds Season 16
According to ScreenRant, some original characters who will be seen in Criminal Minds Season 16 are Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness, Aisha Tyler, Adam Rodriguez, and Paget Brewster.
Sadly, there are no words if Matthew Gray Gubler and Daniel Henney will reprise their roles as Dr. Spencer Reid and Matt Simmons.
However, Messer hints at Reid, Derek Morgan (Shemar Moore), or Jason Gideon's (Mandy Patinkin) appearance down the line.
"Their desks will still have stuff on them. They haven't gone away," she told Entertainment Weekly.
Criminal Minds Season 16's Connection to Its Original Characters
Derek has been away after his son is born, stepping away from the FBI and leaving his desk empty.
But for Reid, his desk still contains all his books and belongings.
"Almost that same time capsule that… I don't know if any of you have gone back to the office," she explained. "But it's a weird experience because whatever was important to you in March 2020 is still sitting on that desk and must not have been that important because it's still sitting on that desk."
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Hence, this connection to Reid will remain in Criminal Minds Season 16. Messer has even left the doors open for their return, saying, "If and when they return, it's up to them."
"It's dependent on their schedules," she continued. "I can't promise anything right now. But it's the hope."
Will Mandy Patinkin Return to Criminal Minds Season 16?
Compared to other characters, Patinkin is unlikely to return to Criminal Minds Season 16.
His name may still be mentioned, but his role as Gideon has already left the series since the third season. He was even killed off-screen in the 10th season.
Another character who may not be seen is Hotch after actor Thomas Gibson was fired from the series in the 12th season.
So, the remaining former members of the BAU have a high chance of returning to the revival series in the future.
For more Criminal Minds Season 16 news, stay tuned to EpicStream!
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