The news of the departure of Kate Callahan (Jennifer Love-Hewitt) makes the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) another member short. Apart from Love-Hewitt's character, AJ Cook might not be getting back on set as the actress recently gave birth to her second child with husband Nathan Andersen. With that in mind, the BAU might be dealing with a two-member shortage as Cook's character, Jennifer "JJ" Jareau, should be expected to be absent in the first episodes of "Criminal Minds" Season 11.
Earlier reports confirmed that Kate Callahan will be replaced by a character named Dr. Tara Lewis, portrayed by "The Talk" host Aisha Tyler. While the news has been confirmed by Tyler herself via social media, the synopsis released by the official synopsis for "Criminal Minds" Season 11 Episode 1 released by CBS.
In the synopsis, the members of the BAU will open "Criminal Minds" Season 11 with a string of interviews in an effort to fill in the spot left by Kate. Presumably one of the standout candidates would be Tyler's character, Lewis. The summary described Lewis as a forensic psychologist who is "eager to assist their efforts." Since Tyler has been earlier confirmed for a recurring role in "Criminal Minds" Season 11, it would come as no surprise if the ending of Episode 1 would see her taking on a bigger and more significant responsibility in the BAU.
Apart from the introduction of Tyler's character, the first episode of "Criminal Minds" Season 11 would see the emergence of a serial killer. According to the synopsis, the case becomes interesting in the sense that the suspect leaves behind particularly unique pieces of evident in every crime scene. Upon analysis of these items, the BAU determined that his or her motive for killing might be rooted to exacting vengeance.
Meanwhile, "Criminal Minds" Season 11 might also see the potential growth of Dr. Spencer Reid (Matthew Gray-Gubler) in terms of his personal life. Fans and followers of the CBS show would remember that the resident genius of the BAU has had his heart broken over the death of his then girlfriend, a woman named Mauve, in the hands of a deranged stalker. The said storyline marked the first time in "Criminal Minds" history for Reid to actually engage in a romantic relationship. With the way things ended, however, it has been quite some time since the shy guy tried his luck with love again.
This is one concern that "Criminal Minds" Season 11 might address soon. In an interview with TV Guide, Erica Messer disclosed that the writers of the CBS show are seriously considering including a girlfriend or at least a potential love interest for Reid. "It's been two years," Messer said in the interview. She added, "Maeve is something that will never go away in his heart. We want him to smile again and we think everybody else does too."
Last season, Reid mustered the courage to ask Agent Dorian Loker (Emily Churchill) out for coffee. While this incident might have some fans hoping for a love match between the two, Messer said that such is not the case. This announcement does not deter fans of "Criminal Minds" to hope that love will still be possible for Reid. As such, the entrance of Tyler in the show's 11th season has viewers hoping that she will not only take on the role of Kate's substitute but also of Reid's potential new girlfriend.
"Criminal Minds" Season 11 will air on Sept. 23 on CBS.
