Are Shemar Moore and Kirsten Vangsness True Friends Off-Screen?

Derek Morgan (Shemar Moore) and Penelope Garcia (Kirsten Vangsness) are portrayed as close friends in Criminal Minds. Viewers often speculate about whether Moore and Vangsness are friends in real life due to their on-screen chemistry. The show follows the FBI's Behavioural Analysis Unit, with the ensemble cast contributing to its popularity. Derek, a long-standing member of the team, is known for his tough exterior but harbors a soft spot for Penelope Garcia.

In the BAU, Derek and Penelope share a deep, loving friendship that is strictly platonic. Penelope, who appears in every season of Criminal Minds and its continuation on Paramount+, serves as a technical analyst and communications officer. She is also a former hacker known for her optimistic and emotional nature, often delivering memorable quotes. Among the various friendships on the show, the bond between Derek and Penelope stands out for its warmth and charm, brought to life by the convincing performances of Shemar Moore and Kirsten Vangsness.

Criminal Minds is available to stream on Paramount+ and Hulu.

Shemar Moore And Kirsten Vangsness' Friendship Started At The First Table Read

The Criminal Minds Stars Instantly Hit It Off

Penelope Garcia and Derek Morgan - The Criminal Minds Stars Instantly Hit It Off - Shemar Moore And Kirsten Vangsness' Friendship Started At The First Table Read

Shemar Moore and Kristen Vangsness quickly became friends when they first read together for Criminal Minds. Vangsness originally had a one-episode role on the show, but their friendship blossomed during a mandatory workplace harassment video session. While others left, Vangsness stayed and bonded with Moore, joking and talking like old pals. Their chemistry was noticed by someone from production, leading to Vangsness getting more lines in the show.

The chemistry between them that was evident during the table read only became more pronounced while filming. Vangsness shared her thoughts on acting with Moore for the first time, saying: "Wow, we really have chemistry."

The Entire Criminal Minds Main Cast Is Close In Real Life

Derek and Penelope have a close friendship with a shared sense of humor. They playfully banter with each other, with Derek calling Penelope "Baby Girl" and Penelope expressing her love for him. Despite their flirtatious dynamic, they are simply very good friends. This chemistry is possible because Shemar Moore and Kristen Vangsness are genuine friends in real life, which enhances their on-screen relationship in Criminal Minds.

The BAU's Closeness Is Mirrored On The Criminal Minds Set

Derek Morgan talking to Penelope Garcia in Criminal Minds. - The BAU's Closeness Is Mirrored On The Criminal Minds Set - The Entire Criminal Minds Main Cast Is Close In Real Life

Shemar Moore and Kristen Vangsness are not the only actors on Criminal Minds who have a strong real-life friendship. Most of the cast is very close outside the show. Paget Brewster, who plays Emily Prentiss, mentioned in an interview with TVLine that the cast is more than just friends. She said, "We're all very attached — and kinda corny..."

The cast and crew of Criminal Minds have a special tradition known as the Goobie Awards, a playful fake award ceremony. This camaraderie among the actors translates into their on-screen chemistry, which is a key factor in keeping the show feeling fresh even after more than 15 seasons.

On a personal note, Paget Brewster, who plays Emily Prentiss, met her husband Steve Damstra through the show. Matthew Gray Gubler, who portrays Spencer Reid, introduced them, highlighting the close-knit nature of the cast. The atmosphere on set is often likened to that of a family, complete with love, disagreements, and friendship. This familial dynamic helps to explain why the relationship between Derek and Penelope feels so genuine. The actors, Shemar Moore and Kirsten Vangsness, share a close friendship off-screen, which shines through in their on-screen interactions as well.

Editor's P/S:

The article explores the close friendship portrayed by Derek Morgan and Penelope Garcia in the TV show "Criminal Minds," played by Shemar Moore and Kirsten Vangsness. It highlights that their on-screen chemistry stems from their genuine friendship in real life. The article further reveals that the entire main cast of the show shares a strong bond, creating a family-like atmosphere on set. This camaraderie translates into their performances, making the relationships between characters feel authentic.

The article also mentions the cast's tradition of the Goobie Awards, which adds a playful touch to their interactions. The close-knit nature of the cast is evident in the way they support each other, such as Paget Brewster meeting her husband through her co-star. This sense of community and friendship enhances the show's quality and makes it a beloved series among viewers.