In an exclusive look behind the scenes, let’s explore the real-life relationships of the cast members from the beloved series ‘Criminal Minds’. As Season 3 of ‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’ premiered on May 8, one can’t help but wonder about the off-screen romantic stories that have blossomed amongst the cast. Despite the dark and intense nature of the show, love has found a way to creep into the lives of these talented actors, adding an extra layer of intrigue for fans around the world.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/arlene-vrhel-joe-mantegna-grace-gail-adam-rodriguez-050725-c155bd83123743c2a8eb3c1b6877d6df.jpg)
When it comes to long-lasting love, Joe Mantegna, who portrayed Supervisory Special Agent David Rossi, stands out. With a marriage that has endured for 50 years, Mantegna met his wife, Arlene Vrhel, during a Chicago production of Hair back in 1969. Their love story was sealed with private vows atop the Eiffel Tower in Paris before officially tying the knot in 1975, and they share two daughters, Gia and Mia.
Kirsten Vangsness, known for her portrayal of the quirky tech analyst Penelope Garcia, has been relatively private about her personal life. In 2015, Vangsness shared her engagement to actor and writer Keith Hanson; however, details about whether the couple eventually married remain undisclosed.
Matthew Gray Gubler, who brought to life the beloved character Dr. Spencer Reid, has charmed audiences with his on-screen persona for 15 seasons. While Gubler hasn’t publicly been linked romantically at the moment, he has described himself as a ‘great dater’, known for crafting memorable and special dates that leave a lasting impression.
A.J. Cook, who captivated viewers as Jennifer “JJ” Jareau, found love off-screen before debuting on ‘Criminal Minds’. She married Nathan Andersen in 2001, four years prior to her appearance on the show, and they share two sons, Mekhai and Phoenix, continuing to build their family beyond the confines of the set.
Thomas Gibson, famous for his role as Aaron “Hotch” Hotchner, faced personal challenges off-screen. After his departure from the show following a reported altercation, Gibson found himself single after parting ways with his wife, Christine, with whom he shares three children.
Paget Brewster, the talented actress behind Emily Prentiss, found love in an unexpected place – through a mutual friend, none other than her co-star Matthew Gray Gubler. Brewster and musician Steve Damstra tied the knot in 2014, with Gubler playing a significant role in bringing these two souls together.
Shemar Moore, who exuded charm as Derek Morgan on the show, welcomed a daughter, Frankie, with his former girlfriend Jesiree Dizon in 2023. Despite their subsequent separation in January 2025, Moore and Dizon remain dedicated to co-parenting their child.
Adored for his portrayal of Task Force Agent Luke Alvez, Adam Rodriguez found his leading lady in model Grace Gail, whom he married in 2016. The couple shares a beautiful family with three children, further solidifying the bond that blossomed beyond the crime-solving world of ‘Criminal Minds’.
In the world of entertainment, love stories often unfold behind the scenes, adding a touch of warmth and humanity to the characters we see on our screens. As fans continue to cherish the memories created by the cast of ‘Criminal Minds’, these real-life relationships offer a glimpse into the personal journeys of the talented individuals who brought these characters to life.