Over the course of 12 seasons, Criminal Minds has had several cast shakeups though none of which has caused so much noise than the one involving lead star Thomas Gibson. And now that we’re about to enter season 13, fans are faced with the reality of losing yet another member of the BAU team no thanks to the explosive cliffhanger that has left eight lives hanging in the balance.

Does Criminal Minds Need to Keep Adding New Cast Members?>>>

While it’s always sad to say goodbye to a character, it’s nothing new for Paget Brewster, whose character Emily Prentiss officially rejoined the BAU team in season 12 after officially leaving in season seven.

“We care about each other a lot,” Brewster told TV Line. “It’s always hard when someone is gone, whether by choice or not by their choice… but you roll with it.” 

“You can’t not miss the people who are gone,” she continued, adding that Criminal Minds has a tight-knit cast that almost feels like family.

As many fans know, Brewster was supposed to make a guest appearance in season 12 but her stint eventually turned into a full-time gig as a result of Gibson’s firing. “The con was the situation in which it happened, which was Thomas Gibson no longer being with the show. That was unfortunate.” 

And though Brewster describes Criminal Minds as “a wacky place” given the frequent changes in the cast, she admits that she’s lucky to be part of the show.

“I’m really happy to be back,” she said.

QUIZ: Which Criminal Minds Character Are You?>>>

How do you feel about the frequent cast shakeups on the show? Are you glad Brewster is back? What are your predictions regarding the season 12 cliffhanger? Which character are you worried about? Who do you think will the show lose next? 

Criminal Minds returns Wednesday, September 27 at 10/9c on CBS.

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(Image courtesy of CBS)

Dean Bextor

Staff Writer, BuddyTV