**Criminal Minds: Evolution to Conclude with 20th Season in 2027**
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The popular crime drama series, *Criminal Minds*, will come to a close with its 20th season, titled *Criminal Minds: Evolution*, set to air in 2027 on Paramount+. This announcement resonates with dedicated fans who have followed the show’s journey since its inception on CBS in 2005.
Showrunner and executive producer Erica Messer expressed her reflections on the series, noting the profound impact it has had on the cast and creative team throughout its extensive run. In a recent statement, she shared, “It’s hard to put into words what Criminal Minds has meant to all of us who have been fortunate enough to be part of this extraordinary journey, first on CBS for 15 seasons and then on Paramount+ for five.”

Since its debut, *Criminal Minds* has become known for its unique approach to crime procedural storytelling. Unlike many of its counterparts, it delves deeply into the psychology of its characters, particularly the infamous killers profiled by the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. The series has effectively captivated audiences by intertwining chilling narratives with complex character exploration.
The upcoming 20th season will feature a host of familiar faces from the series. Joe Mantegna will reprise his role as David Rossi, alongside A.J. Cook as Jennifer ‘JJ’ Jareau, Kirsten Vangsness as Penelope Garcia, Paget Brewster as Emily Prentiss, Aisha Tyler as Dr. Tara Lewis, RJ Hatanaka as Tyler Green, and Adam Rodriguez as Luke Alvez. Their return is sure to evoke nostalgia and excitement among long-time viewers.
Messer expressed her gratitude toward the talented team that has contributed to the show’s success over the years. She acknowledged the remarkable loyalty of the fans who have supported the series through thick and thin. “While suddenly navigating the end of this chapter, I’m filled with gratitude for our remarkable cast, writers, directors and crew who have poured their hearts into this show, and for the incredible fans around the world whose unwavering loyalty has kept Criminal Minds going for two decades,” she added.
*Criminal Minds* originally concluded its CBS run with a 10-episode season in early 2020. However, its legacy was revived with the launch of *Criminal Minds: Evolution*, which premiered on Paramount+ in November 2022. This continuation has allowed the series to maintain its distinct subtitle while exploring new narratives and character developments.
The show’s legacy extends beyond its main series, having spawned two short-lived spin-offs. *Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior*, which starred Forest Whitaker, aired in 2011, while *Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders*, featuring Gary Sinise, ran for two seasons between 2016 and 2017. Although these offshoots did not achieve the same level of success, they contributed to the broader *Criminal Minds* universe.
As the series gears up for its final season, fans can take comfort in the fact that *Criminal Minds: Evolution* will remain available for streaming on Paramount+ even after its conclusion. Although a specific premiere date for the 20th season has yet to be revealed, anticipation continues to grow as loyal enthusiasts eagerly await the next chapter in the series.
In a media landscape where stories often fade quickly, *Criminal Minds* has established itself as a mainstay within the crime genre, marked by its innovative storytelling and psychological depth. As the show prepares to bid farewell, it leaves behind a rich legacy that has profoundly impacted both its cast and fans. The culmination of this narrative promises to be a significant event for followers of the series, as they gather to celebrate the remarkable journey that *Criminal Minds* has taken over the past two decades.
