ENTERTAINMENTInside The Most Heartbreaking Deaths in 'Criminal Minds' History: New Series Brings Back Familiar Faces
‘Criminal Minds’ delivered several shocking character deaths throughout its 19-season run.
Aug. 28 2026, Updated 10:33 a.m. ET
Criminal Minds, a beloved crime drama, has captivated audiences since its premiere in 2005. The series follows a group of FBI profilers in the Behavioral Analysis Unit, tackling various fictional cases and demonstrating how behavioral analysis aids in capturing unknown criminals.
After 19 seasons, the show has not shied away from shocking character deaths, leaving a lasting impact on its devoted fanbase.
Recently revived as Criminal Minds: Evolution on Paramount+, the series has brought back familiar faces, including Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, and Kirsten Vangsness.
Showrunner Erica Messer has stated that the revival will continue to surprise viewers with unexpected character exits. “I don’t think we can ever be prepared anytime anything has ever happened with a beloved character,” she told Us Weekly in May 2026, hinting at a potential break for the audience.
Noteworthy Character Departures
Haley Hotchner’s death was one of the series’ most heartbreaking moments.
The show features numerous heart-wrenching character deaths that have left fans in tears. One of the most memorable moments occurred when Hotchner's wife, Haley, fell victim to the Reaper, a chilling scenario that forced the BAU to listen helplessly. Fans will never forget the emotional turmoil of that episode.
Maeve’s murder left Reid and viewers devastated in Season 8.
Reid's love interest, Maeve, faced a tragic end in season 8 when a stalker murdered her, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the series.
Similarly, Gideon, portrayed by Mandy Patinkin, was killed off-screen in season 10, a devastating revelation for viewers who cherished his character.
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Mandy Patinkin’s character was killed off-screen in season 10.
Another significant loss came with the poisoning of Strauss, played by Jayne Atkinson, by an unsub known as The Replicator. Fans had grown attached to her character, making the betrayal even more painful.
Recently, Josh Stewart's character Will experienced a shocking demise in 2025 when he collapsed after a headache. Criminal Minds continues to demonstrate its ability to deliver unexpected plot twists.
Emotional Storytelling
The revival continued the show’s emotional storytelling.
In a May 2026 episode, viewers learned that Luke's dog, Roxy, had to be put down, reminding fans that even beloved pets are not immune to heart-wrenching losses. This emotional storytelling resonates with the audience, deepening their connection to the characters.
As Criminal Minds progresses, fans eagerly anticipate what will happen next. The revival has reignited interest and excitement, but the looming question of character fate remains. Will any more beloved characters meet an untimely end?
As the BAU returns to tackle new challenges, viewers remain invested in the emotional journey, hoping for a balance between thrilling plot developments and the survival of their favorite characters. The legacy of Criminal Minds continues, and fans are left wondering what heart-wrenching moments lie ahead.
