Spencer Reid in ‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’: Why the Return of the Golden Boy is Still Anticipated

Spencer Reid’s absence in Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 has long been established, but it’s undeniable that the lack of this iconic character has left a significant void. Emily Prentiss’ team has been grappling with budget constraints, high pressure, and understaffing for the past two years. Despite this, they’ve managed to solve every case excellently, including the Gold Star mystery in the Season 2 finale, without any additional casualties.

However, even though the BAU team continues to complete its missions efficiently, fans are still longing for the return of key characters from the original series, particularly Spencer Reid, portrayed by Matthew Gray Gubler, who appeared in all 15 seasons of Criminal Minds on CBS. Unfortunately, since Criminal Minds: Evolution premiered in 2022, Reid has been absent. The anticipation for his return remains strong, not just from fans but also from the show’s production team.

There was initial confusion about why Reid didn’t appear. Some reports suggested that Gubler chose not to participate in the project, while others claimed that scheduling conflicts were the primary reason. Eventually, showrunner Erica Messer clarified that Gubler’s schedule was the obstacle to his return. Interestingly, Gubler himself expressed a desire to reunite with the BAU when the timing is right.

Nevertheless, Criminal Minds: Evolution has kept the door open for Spencer Reid’s return. Throughout Season 1, there were no updates on Reid’s whereabouts or what he was doing. By Season 2, Emily Prentiss revealed that Reid was on leave. Unfortunately, no further details were provided regarding the reason for his leave or when he might return.

This leave of absence is entirely understandable for someone like Reid, who has spent over 15 years dealing with horrifying cases and dangerous criminals. Reid himself has been the victim of several traumatic events, most notably when he was framed by Cat Adams and wrongfully imprisoned. After being exonerated and reinstated to his job, Reid was encouraged to take a long break, though he refused, wanting to continue working with his team.

Prentiss then arranged a teaching role for Reid at the FBI, where he helped train young agents in criminal profiling. Gradually, Reid began to enjoy this work, realizing that life wasn’t solely about the dangerous missions of a field agent. Perhaps this realization led Reid to continue his leave and stay away from work during Criminal Minds: Evolution.

Spencer Reid’s absence in Criminal Minds: Evolution has led fans to eagerly anticipate a surprising return in the next season. Erica Messer and the production team, along with Gubler, all want Reid to return to the FBI. Despite scheduling challenges and disruptions from the Hollywood strikes in 2023, everyone remains hopeful that BAU’s golden boy will soon reappear in Season 3. With better preparation, the chance for Gubler to reprise this beloved role is looking brighter.

Spencer Reid’s return promises to be a significant highlight, bringing not only joy to viewers but also rekindling memories of one of the most iconic characters in Criminal Minds.