Following the cancellation announcement, several cast members of Criminal Minds: Evolution took to social media to express their thoughts.
On Friday, it was confirmed that the long-running police procedural will conclude with its upcoming 20th season, the fifth under the Evolution banner following its move to Paramount+.
In an Instagram video, Kirsten Vangsness, who has played technical analyst Penelope Garcia since season one, described social media as “your own press conference,” noting the cancellation while highlighting that the series is ending “for now.”
Referencing Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Vangsness said, “It’s like receiving chocolate after 20 seasons — that doesn’t happen often.” She called the moment bittersweet, adding, “Thank you so much for the chocolate.” Vangsness also expressed her love for the job, noting showrunner Erica Messer’s sentiment that “there are so many more stories to tell,” and shared that the entire cast hopes to continue wherever the story may go.
Vangsness further revealed in the video’s comments that the cast discovered the cancellation at the same time as the audience.
RJ Hatanaka, who joined the cast in season 16 as FBI agent Tyler Green, shared an Instagram photo of the ensemble, captioning it, “Just the finest group of people.”
A.J. Cook, who has played special agent Jennifer “JJ” Jareau since season one, reshared Hatanaka’s Instagram post, adding, “These people own my heart forever and always.” She also posted a Halloween photo holding a tombstone for JJ, captioned “Rest in peace JJ (for now).
Paget Brewster, who has played special agent Emily Prentiss since season two, shared a photo on social media featuring the caption “Free Agent.”
Aisha Tyler, who has portrayed Dr. Tara Lewis since season 11, reposted Hatanaka’s photo and added the message, “Family for life.”
Criminal Minds: Evolution also stars Joe Mantegna as special agent David Rossi and Adam Rodriguez as special agent Luke Alvez.
The final season of Criminal Minds: Evolution is scheduled to premiere in 2027.
