Criminal Minds fans ‘disappointed’ as cast member leaves series after 16 years
Actor shared the ‘sad’ news on social media
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Criminal Minds franchise is about to lose one of its main stars after 16 years.
On Wednesday (17 January), long-standing cast member Josh Stewart revealed his time on the show, which was cancelled in 2020 before being revived two years later, had come to an end.
He shared the news in response to a fan question on X/Twitter that asked: “Are we going to see you back for new season of Criminal Minds: Evolution? We all need some Will LaMontange back in our lives.”
He replied: “Sadly, my days of playing Will LaMontagne, Jr are over. You guys have been the absolute best.”
Stewart joined the show, which began on CBS in 2005, as a guest star during season two in 2007. He returned in several guest appearances throughout the show’s run, eventually marrying Special Agent JJ Jareau (AJ Cook).
He had more of a main role in the show’s revival, which arrived under the title Criminal Minds: Evolution upon its release on Paramount+ in November 2022.
Cook will continue starring in the show for the new edition of Criminal Minds: Evolution alongside Joe Mantegna, Kirsten Vangsness, Aisha Tyler, Adam Rodriguez and Paget Brewster.
Fans are in uproar about Stewart’s announcement of William’s impending departure from the show, with many branding it “sad” and “disappointing”.
“This is so disappointing,” one viewer wrote, adding: “I really enjoyed having him in all the episodes of Criminal Minds: Evolution.”
Another fan added: “Awwwww. So sorry to hear he’s leaving,” with one viewer stating: “Sad, I loved his character and was glad to see so much of him last season.”
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Criminal Minds has endured as one of CBS’ biggest hits. The show – which was created by Jess Davis – follows a group of FBI Agents who attempt to catch criminals through behavioural profiling.
The show found itself in the spotlight for the wrong reasons in 2016 when actor Thomas Gibson, who played FBI Special Agent Aaron Hotchner, was fired from the show after a physical altercation with one of its producers.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments