"Criminal Minds" season 11 isn't just saying goodbye to Agent Kate Callahan played by Jennifer Love Hewitt, who won't be returning to the show to be a full-time mom of two. An interview with Matthew Gray Gubler, who plays Dr. Spencer Raid, has revealed another BAU member's exit.
"I am [directing]. There's a special episode," the actor told Zap2it. "I almost don't want to give it away, but I might as well. It's the departure of one of the regular team members."
However, he did not reveal who this person is.
According to speculations, there are two possible characters likely to make their exit in season 11. The first one is David Rossi, who is played by Joe Mantegna. The reason for this is that he is deemed close to retirement, which will not be very difficult to stage.
The second possible retiree is A.J. Cook, who won't be in the initial episodes of the season to give way to her maternity leave. It is being said that Cook's return as Agent JJ in season 11 is only for her character to leave with proper closure.
Cook's absence in the first installments prompted Aisha Tyler's inclusion. The actress was tapped to play the role of psychologist Dr. Tara Lewis who has knowledge on how things are done by the FBI. While her character was tagged to be a replacement for Kate, Tyler will leave when Cook returns.
"We'd love to have her come play as often as possible, because she's amazing and she fit right in with the cast. But we're looking forward to the opportunity to bring in other 'good guys' to be guest stars," executive producer Erica Messer told TV Line, adding that no one will replace Kate.
"Criminal Minds" season 11 premieres Sept. 30.
