Movies

AJ Cook Reveals Heartwarming Reunion with Matthew Gray Gubler in Criminal Minds: Evolution

BBG News

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share an exclusive piece of news: After a brief hiatus, the talented Matthew Gray Gubler reprises his role as Dr. Spencer Reid in “Criminal Minds: Evolution”! However, his absence in the first two seasons of this CBS continuation was due to him being on sabbatical and handling a special assignment. Production-wise, scheduling conflicts were the culprit for his non-appearance even as a guest star. But fans have been eagerly waiting for this moment, and it finally arrives in “Criminal Minds: Evolution” season 3! In the third episode of the season, when JJ’s husband meets an untimely end, Dr. Reid makes his much-awaited return to attend Will’s funeral.

Actress A.J. Cook recently chatted with Ebaster in an exclusive sit-down where she discussed her experience collaborating with Gubler once more following a long period apart. Cook disclosed that she even contacted him directly to invite him for the funeral episode, and she expressed delight over reconnecting with Gubler. Here’s the full conversation below:

In this recent episode, it was delightful to see Spencer make a short appearance again. It’s been quite some time since you worked alongside Matthew Gray Gubler. When you resumed acting together, did you find it felt like continuing from where you left off, or were there any signs of rust?

Cook: Not at all, it was more like welcoming a familiar face. I was overjoyed to have him around. When I reached out and said, “This is what’s going on. It would feel quite odd if Spence wasn’t here,” he promptly responded, “I’ll be there.” His arrival and participation not only for us but also for his friend felt like a heartwarming reunion. I was thrilled to have him on set once more, and I’m truly thankful that he chose to join us again.

What Matthew Gray Gubler’s Easy Return Means For Future Seasons Of Criminal Minds: Evolution

Cook Loved Having Gubler Back On Set

Spencer Reid’s role could be left flexible so he could rejoin the action without much fuss. However, if he wasn’t needed to apprehend Sicarius, it seems more likely that it was for emotional reasons rather than investigative ones. The character aspect was crucial according to Cook, and Matthew Gray Gubler supported this creatively, making his brief appearance possible, although Reid spoke just a single line in the Evolution episode.

Introducing Reid at Will’s funeral gave the event a deeper emotional impact. The scene managed to create an appropriate sense of excitement while maintaining the solemn atmosphere. Viewers were moved by seeing Reid not just as a valuable asset for solving cases, but also as JJ’s friend and the godfather of her sons. This added layer of personal connection made the scene more poignant compared to if he had only appeared to help with a case.

As a movie enthusiast, I couldn’t help but feel a pang when Cook mentioned it would be “unusual” if Spencer wasn’t present at the funeral. Fans, who have deeply cherished the extraordinary bond between Spencer and JJ throughout the original series of Criminal Minds, would undoubtedly concur. However, Cook’s optimistic choice of words hints that we might see more significant appearances from Spencer in future seasons of Criminal Minds: Evolution, a prospect that fills us with anticipation.

Our Take On Spencer Reid’s Future With The BAU

Gubler Seems Open To Returning To Evolution In A Limited Capacity

Fans of the collective show often wish that the cast members are friends in real life too, and it’s comforting to learn that Cook and Gubler recognize and value the significance of Spencer and JJ’s friendship off-screen as well. Reid’s brief appearance at Will’s funeral added a poignant touch without becoming overly intrusive or distracting.

As a fan, I must share some disappointing news about my favorite actor, Gubler. Right now, he’s tied up with another CBS show called “Einstein,” which has been postponed for a year. Therefore, it seems unlikely that we will see him back as the main cast member anytime soon. However, I find comfort in the fact that he was so receptive when Cook approached him about “Criminal Minds: Evolution.” Given the right circumstances and a compelling storyline, there’s a possibility that he might return for season 4, albeit in a more limited role with greater significance.

Read More

2025-05-25 00:18

Previous post Sophie Turner Surprises Fans with Support for Joe Jonas’ New Album!
Next post Mission: Impossible’s Hayley Atwell reveals she was 8 months pregnant while filming fight scene