‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’ Season 16 Could See Cameo Return Of One Original

“Criminal Minds” is set to return for a 16th season, a revival after the show originally ended its 15-season run with CBS in 2020.

Now under Paramount+, the show returns titled “Criminal Minds: Evolution.” Six of the eight main cast will be back for the show. That list includes Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness, Aisha Tyler, Adam Rodriguez and Paget Brewster.

Technically out are Matthew Gray Gubler and Daniel Henney, who portrayed Dr. Spencer Reid and Matt Simmons respectively. Of the two Gubler is best remembered for being there since the first season – meaning this would be the first one without him.

Regardless, there are still some who wonder if these missing names would at some point re-emerge. Speaking to EW, showrunner Erica Messer mentioned how the presence of these old characters is still likely to be felt.

Further, the possibility of seeing “Criminal Minds” characters such as Spencer Reid may happen but only if their schedule permits.

“I don't know if any of you have gone back to the office, 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. So we want that connection still with Dr. Reid and Matt Simmons, who is on another assignment as well. It's something we can't really discuss. But if and when they return, it's up to them. It's dependent on their schedules. I can't promise anything right now. But it's the hope,” Messer explained.

While that should be something worth monitoring, one character unlikely to return is Mandy Patinkin (Jason Gideon). His character was killed in season 3 so it makes no sense to see him pop up.

Aaron Hotchner (Thomas Gibson) is another character unlikely to return, especially after he was fired from the series in season 12.