After a long absence from the series, beloved Criminal Minds alum Matthew Gray Gubler (King Knight, 68 Kill) is set to return on Paramount+’s Criminal Minds: Evolution. His character, Dr. Spencer Reid, will appear in only one episode of season three, Deadline reports.
According to Deadline, Reid’s status in the sequel series is only mentioned as him being away from the BAU for “a special assignment.”
According to Deadline, Gubler was first cast in Criminal Minds right after his college graduation, so this was his first TV role. The character suddenly became a fan favorite, and fans eagerly expected his return in the sequel series. They are now ecstatic to see what their favorite character will be up to next. Alongside A.J. Cook (Tru Calling, Rocket Science), who currently portrays Agent Jennifer Jareau, Gubler is another of the original cast members who stayed for the entire 15 seasons of Criminal Minds but exited the series before Evolution even began. However, Gubler has starred in and directed 12 episodes of the original series.
According to Deadline, Gubler and Evolution showrunner Erica Messer (Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, Alias) have previously shared that they tried to ensure at least one character appearance, but his schedule was always too packed. But now, finally, it has happened, but Gubler’s season three storyline is still under wraps.
At the moment, according to Deadline, Gubler is preparing to begin production of the series he will be starring in, CBS Studios’ Einstein, which was created and executive-produced by Andy Breckman (Monk, Rat Race) and Randy Zisk (Monk, Midnight Caller). Zisk also will be directing the series.
According to Deadline, Gubler’s future appearance was first reported in an interview with the Italian magazine ANSA.
Criminal Minds: Evolution is available to stream on Paramount+.