Matthew Gray Gubler Shares Heartwarming Reunion with Criminal Minds Co-Star After Evolution Hiatus

Summary

Matthew Gray Gubler's reunion with Criminal Minds co-star Joe Mantegna sparks hope that he may return as Dr. Spencer Reid in Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2.

Gubler's absence during the first season of the revival series was primarily due to scheduling conflicts and his eagerness to pursue other career opportunities. The dinner between Mantegna and Gubler is inconclusive, but it is conceivable that they may have discussed the possibility of Gubler's return for season 2, given their close bond both on and off the screen.

Actor Matthew Gray Gubler has reunited with his co-star from Criminal Minds after being absent from season 1 of Criminal Minds: Evolution. Gubler, who played Dr. Spencer Reid for 15 seasons as an original cast member, did not join the Paramount+ revival like most of his co-stars. However, a new photo has sparked excitement that Gubler may return as Reid for season 2 of Criminal Minds: Evolution. Dave Rossi, who portrays Joe Mantegna's character, shared this heartwarming image of their reunion. Take a look at their adorable photo below:

Will Matthew Gray Gubler's Spencer Reid Return In Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2?

Gubler's absence in season 1 of Criminal Minds: Evolution still raises questions. Initial reports suggested that he chose not to be a part of it initially but might consider later. After devoting a significant portion of his career to the original CBS series, the actor expressed his desire to explore new opportunities. However, it was later revealed that scheduling conflicts played a role in Reid's absence. Regardless of the true reason, it is undeniable that the BAU team felt the absence of their resident genius during the hunt for Sicarius.

Mantegna and Gubler's dinner may simply be two former co-stars catching up, but it's hard to believe that they didn't discuss the possibility of Reid returning in Criminal Minds: Evolution. While it's unclear if this is their first meeting since the original show ended, it would have been the perfect opportunity for Mantegna to personally suggest a role for Reid in season 2. The actor himself has expressed a father-and-son dynamic with Gubler, which could be crucial in convincing him to come back.

Gubler's cheerful expression in the photo is promising for his potential return to the Criminal Minds universe. Even if he doesn't become a regular in the Paramount+ revival, it's difficult to imagine that he wouldn't at least consider making a cameo appearance. Moreover, since season 1 of Criminal Minds: Evolution established that Reid is still a part of the BAU and is only assigned elsewhere, reintegrating him in season 2 shouldn't be a challenge.

Source: Joe Mantegna/Twitter