Criminal Minds

CBS is currently on the look out for a police procedural series that may follow in the footsteps of the CSI franchise.  Enter Criminal Minds, the highly rated crime drama that follows the adventures of a team of profilers from the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) at Quantico, Virginia.

According to Entertainment Weekly's Michael Ausiello, discussions are currently taking place between CBS and producer ABC Studios to expand the Criminal Minds franchise with an offshoot, as confirmed by show producer Ed Bernero.

"It's safe to say there will be something soon," Bernero revealed.  "We had talked about it from the beginning, but something always got in the way of it happening… like Mandy [Patinkin] leaving and the strike.  But it's definitely gaining momentum now."

The form of the spin-off has not been decided at this point, though one of the ideas being pitched in is a closer look at different specialties in the FBI.

“[They're] looking at all of the things the FBI does and how we can work that into the Criminal Minds world," Bernero said.

Whatever they decide on, the idea would likely be introduced during a special episode of Criminal Minds set to air later this coming season.  Meanwhile, some questions remain unanswered.  Will the show feature an all-new cast?  And will there be crossovers?

"I don't think so," Bernero said of whether one of the show's current cast members will be singled out to headline the new series.  "We're very happy with the team we have.  On the other hand, it's possible characters could be on both shows… All options are open."

Criminal Minds stars Thomas Gibson as Aaron Hotchner, AJ Cook as Jennifer Jareau, Joe Mantegna as David Rossi, Kirsten Vangsness as Penelope Garcia, Matthew Gray Gubler as Spencer Reid, Paget Brewster as Emily Prentiss, and Shemar Moore as Derek Morgan.



-Kris De Leon, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: EW
(Image courtesy of CBS)