Breaking: Reid's Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 Return Chances Skyrocket After Gubler's Exciting Update!

Summary

Reid's chances of appearing in Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2 have significantly increased according to a recent update.

Reid's absence isn't just felt in the BAU's ability to function without his intellect; it's also apparent in the way his storytelling and character interactions had a significant impact. The reunion between Gubler and Joe Mantegna offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that Reid might be interested in reuniting with the cast for the second season of the revival.

Spencer Reid's likelihood of appearing in Criminal Minds: Evolution may have significantly increased following the latest update from Matthew Gray Gubler. As one of the only two original cast members still present in the police procedural when it concluded, Reid's character was fully established throughout the 15-year run of the CBS series. He experienced various tragedies in both his professional and personal life, utilizing his eidetic memory and extensive knowledge to play a crucial role in the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit. When Reid did not return in season 1 of Criminal Minds: Evolution, his absence was keenly felt.

Despite Reid's intellect, the BAU has shown that it can function without him, as solving cases has always been collaborative. Nevertheless, Reid's absence was felt not just because of his contributions to the FBI, but also because of the impact he had on Criminal Minds' storytelling. After spending a decade and a half in the bureau, it was disappointing not to see him interact with JJ or impress others with his genius. While there is no definitive confirmation of Gubler's return, a recent update has effectively increased the likelihood of his appearance in season 2 of Criminal Minds: Evolution.

Why Gubler Really Didn’t Join Criminal Minds: Evolution

There is ongoing confusion surrounding Gubler's absence from the show Criminal Minds: Evolution, with different reasons being speculated. Initially, it was believed that Gubler had made the decision to skip the revival, after dedicating 15 years to the original series. His former co-stars showed support for his choice, with Paget Brewster, who plays Emily Prentiss, defending his decision to explore other career opportunities. However, it was later revealed by the show's creator Erica Messer that Gubler was actually interested in participating, but had a scheduling conflict preventing him from doing so.

Both reasons are understandable. Gubler has the right to continue playing his character Reid in Criminal Minds: Evolution, and since he is not obligated to participate, no one can force him to do it. If it is due to scheduling conflicts, his situation is similar to Daniel Henney, who also could not return for the Paramount+ project due to prior commitments. Regardless of the reason, the opportunity for Gubler to reprise his role as Reid in season 2 of Criminal Minds: Evolution remains open.

Gubler’s Reunion With Joe Mantegna Increases Chances Of Reid’s Evolution S2 Appearance

Since the announcement of Criminal Minds' revival, Gubler has remained silent about the project, refraining from making any comments on social media or appearing in public. In contrast, his fellow cast members have only positive things to say about him during the press tour for Criminal Minds: Evolution. However, a recent social media post shows Gubler and his co-star Joe Mantegna, who plays Dave Rossi, in a heartwarming reunion. Even their colleagues, Kirsten Vangsness and Aisha Tyler, express their joy over their reunion. Although the post does not explicitly mention Gubler reprising his role as Reid in Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2, Mantegna includes the hashtags #CriminalMinds and #Paramount in his post.

How Gubler’s Reid Can Appear In Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2

This ignites hope that the highly regarded prodigy of the BAU will finally make an appearance in the next edition of the Paramount+ project. Even if their rendezvous isn't work-related, it's hard to fathom that the thought of returning for Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2 doesn't even arise during their discussions. Gubler appears genuinely pleased to spend time with Mantegna, implying his interest in reuniting with his fellow cast members for the revival's second year.

Given Reid's significant contribution as a longstanding member of the BAU, Criminal Minds: Evolution had to establish a believable rationale for his absence. Fortunately, the show efficiently avoids dwelling on the enigmatic whereabouts of both Reid and Simmons. Deputy Director Bailey mentions that while he cannot disclose their location, it ultimately rests with them to decide when they return to the BAU. This explanation deliberately remains vague, giving Criminal Minds: Evolution the flexibility to provide a more concrete justification in the future. Taking into account the bureaucratic nature of the FBI, it is understandable why Bailey is unable to divulge the specific location of Reid and Simmons.

The significance of Bailey's reveal lay in the confirmation that Reid and Simmons remain active members of the FBI. Simmons' absence can be accounted for as he previously served in a different profiling group. Conversely, Reid has always been a part of the BAU. As both agents still technically belong to Prentiss' squad, Messer can easily reassign them to their former team. It is possible that Reid was preoccupied with his teaching responsibilities, explaining his absence during the hunt for Sicarius. Alternatively, he may have been engaged in a classified case. Regardless of the reason, reintegrating them as full-time profilers should not pose a complicated challenge.

What Is Reid’s Best Role In Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2

Reid's return in Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2 can be approached in several ways, depending on the circumstances. One straightforward option is to bring him back as a full-time member of the BAU, reinstating him to his previous position. This way, he can easily resume his duties and function as before without much ado. Considering that the reason for his absence in the show's freshman year is well-established behind the scenes, there is no need for the Paramount+ series to make a big fuss about it. In any case, fans are likely to understand and not dwell on his absence if the revival doesn't emphasize it.

If Gubler is unable to commit to starring in all 10 episodes of Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2, an alternative option would be for him to have a recurring guest role. In the past seasons of the original CBS show, he had a similar arrangement, so transitioning to this shouldn't be too difficult. One possibility could be for Reid to take on the role of a consulting profiler, allowing him to contribute without being physically present for every case. To justify this new arrangement, the Criminal Minds revival could incorporate Reid's mom's situation as the reason behind his inability to return to work on a full-time basis.