Warning: Spoilers ahead for Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 3, Episode 2, “The Zookeeper.”
Fans eagerly anticipate Dr. Spencer Reid’s return to Criminal Minds: Evolution, yet the emotional circumstances surrounding his comeback are far from ideal. Although Reid remains officially part of the BAU, he has not appeared prominently in the latest seasons. The show has hinted at his sabbatical status and an unspecified special assignment, allowing for his return at his discretion.
The much-beloved actor Matthew Gray Gubler is confirmed to make a comeback in Season 3, although he may only grace the screen for a brief moment, possibly even for just a single episode. The emotional gravity of recent events—specifically, the sudden death of JJ’s husband, Will LaMontagne—strongly suggests that Reid will be compelled to return for the funeral.
Will’s Death Is The Strongest Justification for Reid’s Return
If Sicarius Wasn’t Enough, It Must Be an Emotional Reason for Reid to Return to the BAU
In a shocking turn of events, JJ’s husband, Will, tragically dies from an aneurysm linked to thyroid complications in the season 3 finale. His death is instantaneous, leaving little room for farewells. Previously, he had endured thyroid issues, but these appeared resolved by the conclusion of Season 1.
Reid and JJ share a unique bond as two of the younger members at BAU, with their dynamic featured in many of Reid’s standout episodes throughout the series. Despite the show attempting to sideline any romantic tension between them that existed previously, the context of Will’s funeral would not serve as an arena for resurrecting that narrative.
| Main Cast of Criminal Minds: Evolution | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Actor | Character | Seasons | Role |
| Paget Brewster | Emily Prentiss | 2-18 | BAU Unit Chief |
| Joe Mantegna | David Rossi | 3-18 | Founding Father of the BAU |
| A.J. Cook | Jennifer “JJ” Jareau | 1-18 | Formerly BAU Communication Liaison |
| Kirsten Vangsness | Penelope Garcia | 1-18 | Technical Analyst |
| Aisha Tyler | Dr. Tara Lewis | 11-18 | Forensic Psychologist |
| Adam Rodriguez | Luke Alvez | 12-18 | Previously from FBI Fugitive Task Force |
| Ryan-James Hatanaka | Tyler Green | 16-18 | Former military intelligence officer |
| Zach Gilford | Elias Voit | 16-18 | Sicarius |
Sicarius, a notorious serial killer, presents a formidable challenge for the BAU. If earlier crises involving members like Rossi and Emily couldn’t bring Reid back, it indicates that his forthcoming return is deeply personal. Supporting JJ in her time of grief serves as a poignant reason for Reid’s long-anticipated reappearance.
Is Matthew Gray Gubler’s Return to Criminal Minds After Season 3 Possible?
Gubler’s Commitment to CBS’ Einstein Makes Ongoing Return Unlikely
Within the storyline, Reid remains available for a return, having been positioned away from the BAU on a sabbatical. However, Gubler’s participation hinges on his schedule, which becomes less clear with his lead role in the upcoming series Einstein, where he portrays Albert Einstein’s great-grandson. Due to scheduling conflicts, Einstein has been postponed until the 2026-2027 TV season, making it uncertain how often Gubler can return for Criminal Minds: Evolution.
Implications of Will’s Death for JJ & The BAU
JJ Might Channel Grief into Work Like Rossi Did in Season 1
JJ’s reaction to Will’s unexpected passing might drive her to immerse herself in her work, similar to Rossi’s path after losing his wife, Krystall. Whether she becomes fixated on uncovering the truth behind Sicarius or challenges Elias Voit on his alleged memory loss, JJ’s intensity could tip toward obsession, making her unstable both personally and professionally.
However, unlike Rossi, JJ has children—Henry and Michael—who rely on her. Now a single mother, JJ will need to navigate her family dynamics as she processes the loss of her husband. Previous storylines hinted at her mother’s presence nearby, hinting that JJ could receive support that Rossi lacked.
Introducing more of JJ’s home life could provide a necessary balance amidst the ongoing Sicarius arc, as JJ appears to be a focal point in Season 3. Exploring her family relationships may aid in depicting her grief more authentically while allowing for character growth.
Will and JJ’s marriage stands as the longest-running relationship in Criminal Minds, making it crucial that JJ is given space to mourn adequately. Will’s backing was vital for JJ as she balanced a challenging profession and family life—something she grew to value deeply. It is imperative that Criminal Minds: Evolution honors his memory with a fitting tribute, even if Reid makes a brief appearance at the funeral.
New episodes of Criminal Minds: Evolution premiere Thursdays on Paramount+. The next episode, Season 3, Episode 3, airs on May 22, 2025.
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