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Criminal Minds: Evolution’s Original Plan for Will’s Death Was Far More Heartbreaking!

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Warning! Spoilers ahead for Criminal Minds: Evolution season 3.

As a devoted film enthusiast, I must say that the demise of Will in “Criminal Minds: Evolution” season 3 left me utterly shattered. What made it even more heart-wrenching was learning that the original plot had intended for his departure to be even more painful. Losing a cherished character like Josh Stewart’s is never easy, but when it happens, it should be justified and tastefully handled. The show succeeded in making us shed tears over the loss, as long as the death serves the character’s growth effectively. Unfortunately, the tragic demise of J.J.’s husband in “Criminal Minds: Evolution” season 3 almost pushed the limits of heartache.

It turns out that Josh Stewart didn’t appear in season 3 of Criminal Minds: Evolution to film Will’s death scene. Instead, scenes from season 1 were utilized, suggesting that the demise was meant to occur much sooner. This would have been painful, but it would have been beneficial for Stewart and more respectful to the character and the series, Criminal Minds: Evolution.

Will’s Death In Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 3 Is From Unused Footage In Season 1

Josh Stewart Was Always Set To Leave In The First Season

A.J. Cook, the actress who portrays J.J. in Criminal Minds, revealed an unexpected detail about filming Will’s death scene. The footage of Will in Criminal Minds: Evolution season 3, episode 2 was originally taken from the first season of the revival. During this initial season, it was hinted that Will might have cancer. However, it was just a scare. Interestingly, Stewart and Cook filmed a scene suggesting that Will had passed away.

In a creative move, our writers found themselves needing to come up with innovative solutions when they were working on the cancer storyline during season 1. They were so anxious about Josh potentially leaving the show due to this plot, that they decided to include a scene where Will collapses as a way of conveying their desire for Josh to stay with us.

Initially overlooked during its first season on Criminal Minds: Evolution, the concept lay dormant until a decision needed to be made regarding the overall plotline. Showrunner Erica Messer then meticulously planned and executed a strategy, making it seem as if all the pieces had been strategically placed in the most recent season.

Will Dying In Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 1 Would Have Been Heartbreaking But More Respectful

Josh Stewart Could Have Been Part Of His Own Death Storyline

The method of portrayal ultimately came across as disregardful towards both the character and the actor. By incorporating discarded footage from the initial season, it implied that Stewart didn’t even get a chance to film this pivotal scene for both Will and J.J., making the situation even more unfortunate. It was already disappointing that the Paramount+ series hadn’t invited Stewart back for Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2. Presenting the character solely for his death felt more like an attempt to create shock rather than a meaningful story development.

The death was more about advancing the storyline’s plot device rather than being essential to the narrative. It did offer Cook an opportunity to display her acting skills, as J.J. now grapples with life without her husband, but it didn’t drive any significant plot developments. Unfortunately, this move dismantled one of the most beloved couples in the series, who were the sole survivors among all the hardships and emotional turmoil that the agents have endured within this universe.

Criminal Minds Has Its Work Cut Out For It To Justify Will’s Death

There Isn’t A Way To Change The Problems That Come With This

The demise of characters from Criminal Minds has been painful, yet understandable. For instance, the passing of Hailey Hotchner became a significant plot point as it motivated the team to pursue a serial killer, marking a new direction in the show’s narrative. It also added a poignant human touch to the series. On the other hand, the death of Jason Gideon was contentious and perhaps unnecessary, but it did provide David Rossi with an opportunity to confront his past.

Evolution” to explain or justify this development in the storyline.

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2025-06-01 17:37

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