Criminal Minds: Evolution has been canceled by Paramount+, with the series set to conclude after its 20th season. The decision marks the first major cancellation under Skydance’s new leadership. According to reports, Paramount+’s previous leadership had already recommended ending the show. The report also noted that the cancellation had been under consideration before the leadership change.
Despite the news that the series is coming to an end, key members of the cast are holding out hope that the franchise’s journey might not be permanently over.
Kirsten Vangsness, who portrays technical analyst Penelope Garcia, took to social media to suggest that the cancellation might not be permanent. In a recorded video, she pointed out the possibility of the show returning, saying, “This has happened. It’s being cancelled, but then it says right there it’s ending ‘for now.'”
What did Erica Messer say about the Criminal Minds cancellation?
Showrunner and executive producer Erica Messer reportedly told Vangsness that although the series may be ending, there are still plenty of stories to explore with the characters developed over its 20-season run.
Vangsness echoed that sentiment in the same video, saying, “But I love my job, and my boss Erica Messer says there are so many more stories to tell. So if we get to keep telling them somewhere, that would be amazing. I know all of us feel the same way.”
The cancellation was even more upsetting for fans given that the cast reportedly learned about the show’s fate at the same time as the public. Showrunner Erica Messer also shared her reaction, thanking the cast and crew for their contributions and fans for their continued support.
She added, “We’re looking forward to sharing season 20 with everyone and celebrating the legacy of this special show we’ve all built together.”
Criminal Minds first premiered in 2005 and ran for 15 seasons on CBS before concluding in 2020. The series returned in 2022 on Paramount+ under the title Criminal Minds: Evolution.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.
