Why 'Criminal Minds: Evolution' Ends with Season 20
Paramount+ has decided to conclude 'Criminal Minds: Evolution' with its 20th season, highlighting strategic changes despite the show's popularity.
The announcement that 'Criminal Minds: Evolution' will end with its 20th season on Paramount+ has left fans and industry insiders questioning the rationale behind this decision. Despite being a top performer on the platform, the series will not continue beyond its upcoming season, set to premiere in 2027.
According to Deadline, the decision was made by the new leadership team at Paramount+, led by Co-Chair & Chief Content Officer for Skydance Direct to Consumer, Casey Bloys. This marks the first official cancellation under the new regime. The decision reportedly follows recommendations from the previous leadership, despite the show's strong performance, which saw it consistently ranking in Paramount+'s Top 10.
The show's transition to streaming with the 'Evolution' subtitle marked a shift from its original broadcast format on CBS, where it ran for 15 seasons. On Paramount+, 'Criminal Minds: Evolution' adopted a more serialized storytelling approach, with each season comprising 10 episodes compared to the 22 or more typical of its CBS run Hollywood Reporter.
The decision to end the series may reflect broader strategic shifts at Paramount+, as the platform evaluates the cost-effectiveness of maintaining broadcast-style series in a streaming environment. This move aligns with the platform's broader strategy to integrate more content from CBS, which it receives the next day, and to potentially explore new series models akin to those on HBO Max, a Skydance sibling Variety.
Erica Messer, the show's longtime executive producer and showrunner, expressed gratitude for the series' journey and the dedication of its cast, crew, and fans. However, she noted that the cancellation decision was sudden and unexpected, leaving the final season without a planned conclusion.
As 'Criminal Minds: Evolution' prepares to wrap up, it remains tied for fifth place among the longest-running drama series, alongside other enduring franchises like 'Law & Order: SVU' and 'NCIS'. This legacy underscores the show's significant impact on television, even as it approaches its final chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the final season of 'Criminal Minds: Evolution' air?
The final season of 'Criminal Minds: Evolution' is set to premiere in 2027.
Why is 'Criminal Minds: Evolution' ending?
The decision to end the series reflects strategic shifts at Paramount+ under new leadership, despite the show's strong performance.
Which British crime dramas are returning in the UK, when can you watch them, and where?
Check confirmed BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Apple TV+ UK and Netflix dates vs. unconfirmed renewals, and save shows to your Plan to Watch list.
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Writing about British broadcasting, streaming shifts, and cinema trends for Watched on TV.