Matthew Gray Gubler's Potential Return in ‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’ Season 2 Revealed by Showrunner

Is Matthew Gray Gubler Returning for Criminal Minds Evolution Season 2

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Fans were disappointed when Matthew Gray Gubler didn't appear in season 1 of Criminal Minds: Evolution. Many are hopeful that he will make a comeback in season 2.

According to showrunner Erica Messer, Gubler's return didn't happen in Season 16 of the show. She mentioned this in an interview with TVInsider recently.

Criminal Minds concluded in 2020 after 15 seasons, with Gubler, 44, portraying Dr. Spencer Reid throughout. When the show was reimagined as Evolution in 2022, he was one of the two main characters who did not make a return.

Fans were hopeful for Gubler's comeback in Evolution season 2 when Joe Mantegna, known for his role as David Rossi, posted a photo on his Instagram Story showing Dr. Reid's nameplate on a desk. However, Messer clarified that this reference to Reid was not a hint about the actor's return in the new season.

Messer explained that the photographer walked through the BAU up to Rossi's office and paused at the nameplate for a moment.

The showrunner mentioned that Gubler would not return for this season despite their efforts. Messer also shared that there was a brief hope for Gubler to star in season 17, also known as season 2 of Evolution, but the Hollywood strikes in 2023 disrupted that plan.

“It hasn’t worked out for Season 17. But we love him. He loves us,” Messer said. “It’s not any of that. It’s just we’ve got to find a time to make it work.”

Is Matthew Gray Gubler Returning for Criminal Minds Evolution Season 2

Courtesy of Joe Mantegna/Instagram

Reid’s desk, however, is still on set in case Gubler can fit it into his schedule in future seasons.

Messner emphasized that the desk and nameplate will not be moved. They will remain in their current spots throughout the show, stating, "So that’s why you saw it. You’ll see it throughout the show. It’s like, there’s his desk."

Furthermore, it is mentioned that both Reid and Matt Simmons (portrayed by Daniel Henney) are working on a special assignment. This vague explanation leaves room for the writers to bring back these characters if needed in the future.

Messner playfully mentioned that once they know they have the opportunity, they can explore various options. However, it's difficult to make any definite plans until they have confirmation.

On the other hand, Gubler shared in September 2023 that he is willing to make a comeback.

He expressed his excitement for the series during an interview on Ireland's The Six O'Clock Show. He mentioned that there was a newer spinoff of the show, but unfortunately, he couldn't be a part of it due to scheduling conflicts. However, he is hopeful that things will work out in the future.

Although Gubler won't be returning as Reid just yet, fans can look forward to seeing Mantegna, who plays Rossi, back in action for season 2 of Evolution.

AJ Cook (Jennifer “JJ” Jareau), Kirsten Vangsness (Penelope Garcia), Aisha Tyler (Dr. Tara Lewis), Adam Rodriguez (Luke Alvez) and Paget Brewster (Emily Prentiss) are set to return to the show to continue their work catching serial killers.

It was announced in April that Felicity Huffman will be joining the cast as Dr. Jill Gideon, the ex-wife of the late Jason Gideon (Mandy Patinkin).

Season 2 of Criminal Minds: Evolution premieres on Paramount+ Thursday, June 6.

Editor's P/S:

The absence of Matthew Gray Gubler's character, Dr. Spencer Reid, in the first season of "Criminal Minds: Evolution" has left fans eagerly anticipating his return. Showrunner Erica Messer has clarified that Gubler will not appear in the upcoming season 2 due to scheduling conflicts. Despite efforts to include him in season 17, Hollywood strikes hindered those plans. However, Messer emphasizes the producers' love for Gubler and their desire to find a way for him to rejoin the cast.

Gubler has expressed his willingness to return, and his desk remains on set, symbolizing the hope for his future involvement. Fans can find solace in the fact that both Reid and Matt Simmons are working on special assignments, leaving the door open for their eventual return. The producers have not ruled out the possibility of Gubler's comeback, but until scheduling allows, fans will have to wait patiently for the beloved character's presence in "Criminal Minds: Evolution."