While Matthew Gray Gubler's return as Spencer Reid in Criminal Minds: Evolution It may sound exciting, but it's actually more terrifying considering its narrative implications. After years of speculation, it has finally been confirmed that the genius profiler will return to Emily Prentiss' team. In its first two years, Criminal Minds: Evolution played coy about Reid's whereabouts, with season 2 establishing that he was on sabbatical. This made it easier for Erica Messer to reinstate the character once Gubler was available. Now, it's just a matter of time before that happens Criminal Minds: Evolution season 3.
Technically, Reid is still a member of the BAU. Amid some confusion about why exactly Gubler didn't join the Criminal Minds: Evolution cast, it was explained that the issue came down to time. The actor has been working on other projects since the original CBS show ended in 2021. However, contrary to previous reports, he actually wants to return to fan-favorite BAU shows. The news that Reid has finally appeared is understandably exciting, especially for longtime fans of the procedural. Before his appearance, however, it's important to note that Reid's return could actually be a bad thing.
Matthew Gray Gubler has a limited role as Spencer Reid in Criminal Minds: Evolution season 3
Reid won't even be in a full episode
Despite his intact desk in the BAU office, Reid's return in Criminal Minds: Evolution will be limited. Based on reports, he won't even be in a full episode, but he is “should only appear in part of an episode of the 18th season” (through TV Line). The summary doesn't say when exactly the genius doctor will appear or what brings him back, but his role, being essentially just a cameo, is pretty underwhelming. Since the move to Paramount+, the shorter season allows Criminal Minds delve deeper into a single case. Reid won't even be part of the investigation, where he usually shines.
All of Reid's Possible Reasons for Reuniting with the BAU Are Bad
Reid's return is ominous
Reid not returning to the BAU full-time is bad enough, but it could actually make the character's fate in the series worse. Since he won't be taking part in resolving the actual case, it's safe to say his cameo will take place on a more personal occasion. It would be great if he could show up at Prentiss's birthday or Dave Rossi's reunion, but that might not be the case.
It's tragic, but also a justified reason for Reid to return for a brief period, given his close friendship with JJ.
Considering JJ will likely be at the center of Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 3, Reid's appearance could be at Wil's funeral. Since the character's health scare followed by Josh Stewart's departure, theories have surfaced that JJ may be a widower. It's tragic, but also a justified reason for Reid to return for a brief period, given his close friendship with JJ. He can also catch up with the rest of the team. However, it's difficult to do anything other than that because of the limited time he supposedly has Criminal Minds: Evolution.
Furthermore, since Gubler is confirmed to lead its procedure, Einsteinon CBS, its return in Criminal Minds: Evolution season three could be how the show kills him off permanently. His new network TV venture means he'll be busy with that for most of the year. It is worth mentioning that in addition to being the protagonist, he also produces it. This makes it harder to recruit him back to play Reid. Sadly, Criminal Minds: Evolution can't continue to keep him in the BAU if there's no clear timeline for when he'll return to the team.
Could Criminal Minds: Evolution still bring Gubler back even if Reid leaves the BAU?
Reid is loved in the BAU
Assuming that Reid Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 3's appearance is used to officially eliminate him, that doesn't mean the show can't bring Gubler back anymore. For starters, both the Paramount+ revival and Einstein are from the same studio, so it's easier to coordinate project schedules if Messer wants to introduce the BAU's golden boy again. In fact, it may even be the reason why Gubler is able to participate Criminal Minds: Evolution season 3.
Shemar Moore left Criminal Minds in season 11, but he went on to play Derek Morgan on the CBS show.
Beyond that, however, there is already precedent for characters returning well after they have left the series. Shemar Moore left Criminal Minds in season 11, but he went on to play Derek Morgan on the CBS show. The same could happen with Reid, especially since he has a special bond with several of the current BAU members in Criminal Minds: Evolutionhaving worked with them for several years.
Source: TV Line