Monday, April 06, 2009

CRIMINAL MINDS: TELL NINA TASSLER WHAT YOU THINK!


Criminal Minds: Please use this thread to post a message to CBS Entertainment President Nina Tassler about the firing of the Criminal Minds writers and the recent media reports that CBS is cutting actors from popular television shows.

Let her know that we object to their "changing the winning formula" of Criminal Minds. "Why change a show that works?" "Why lay off writers and actors that make the show great?" "Don't change a winning formula." We won't tolerate any more changes with this show. We will stop watching. Period.

Here's your chance to speak your "Minds"............

I will print off and fax her office daily all the comments left.

741 comments:

«Oldest   ‹Older   401 – 600 of 741   Newer›   Newest»
Pearl said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

I´m not watching serials, because there are always some characters who I don´t like. But the CM is exceptional! From the first episode I´m addicted. All of the characters are my favourite. Without any actor it wouldn´t be the same. This serial is the best, because they are together! Please don´t cut actors.

Erika
Hungary

Ilaria said...

i am skeptical if people continue to watch cm when you cut more! (both: writers and actors)

5 briliant writers gone and one actor? that might be to much!

Edith said...

I really like the show! but not like this! I know we are in an economical crisis, but with that behavior i am affraid that you are putting the show to a risk! we as the fans can not look at it and say nothing!

We found a lot of friends through the show and the CMF board!

Don't risk to destroy this, please!

Annemieke said...

Dear Nina Tassler

I'm a Criminal minds fan from the Netherlands and I'm truly shocked by recent events. Firing 5 writers, writers who have written some of the best CM episodes and thus making a lot of people watch CBS.
And now the rumours about firing actors.
Please, please, please reconsider. There are a lot of CM fans out there, not just in the States but world wide. You're producing an AWESOME show, which is AWESOME because of it's CAST & CREW. Please keep it that way.

Sincerly,
A CM fanatic
Annemieke

Daniela said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

I just read that, after five actors had been leaving the Criminal Minds family, now possibly one or more actors have to go. That's just too much to take. They're such a great ensemble and I can't picture the team with one or more of them gone.
All the actors are really talented and the characters so loved by the fans.

I understand that there had been budget cuts, but there must be other ways to save money than firing actors, who are the heart of the best show on TV.

Sincerely,
Criminal Minds fan
Daniela

Anonymous said...

Hello,
I have gone through all of these comments and I'm afraid I will sound like a broken record but people...please think about what you are doing. Criminal Minds is a top ten show that has done nothing but continue to grow strong during many challenges: cast changes, the writers strike and a cast member's pregnancy.

Through all of this, the writers and actors have stayed true to the stories and characters. They have continued to create a show that has a strong fan base and isn't that what makes CBS money. We see the commercials and shop at those stores... Isn't Criminal Minds doing it's job?

To damage this incredible show more is just going to hurt CBS in the long run. You will lose viewers...including me.

Do viewers matter to you? By firing writers and actors of a top ten show... apparently not.

A Greene

Alice Cooper said...

To Nina Tassler,

I have read all the comments posted here, yes all the 414
of them, each and every of them keep asking the same thing, stop destroying our show. Can you do that Ms. Tassler? Don't let go of an actor. We want them all back for season 5. CM will not be worth watching if any of them are let go.

Alice Cooper
Washington DC

Theresa , NYC said...

As a fan of "Criminal Minds", I am upset over the recent firings of 5 writers and now I'm hearing that one or maybe more cast members may have to be let go. Please stop destroying my favorite show. I have been a watcher since the first episode. It's the best show ever!!! Please find another way to crunch your budget. To make anymore cuts to "Criminal Minds" will be "DEVASTATING" and you will loose me as a viewer. Theresa Marone, NYC

Patty from Philly said...

Why change what works so well?
CM works because of all the characters. Please don't mess with it or you may find yourself with another Heroes on your hand. Once changes are made to a show that didn't need any changes then there are no going back. The moment the fans bail out they will not come back no matter what is done. Heroes
is the best example. It was a great show, changes were made, fans hated those changes and now this show is barely hanging on its paltry 7 millions viewers, it use to be making close to 18 millions!

Don't change CM, it doesn't need any changes. Please listen to those who watch the show every week.

Patty

Carl Hamilton said...

Ms. Tassler,

I can understand the financial situation we are in but making changes to a successful show is always a chance to take, if it backfires and judging by the fans reaction it will then you may end up losing more money than you saved.

I hope you will take the right decision and not let go of one of the actors on Criminal Minds. We like them all and want them all back next season.

Thank you.

Carl Hamilton,
Denver, Co

Sow Chun, Kuala Lumpur said...

Please please keep all the actors/actresses for the show. They are what makes the show a hit and the ratings proved that.

Darren, MY said...

Criminal Minds is a very different crime procedural show and it has proven time and time again through the ratings that viewers are very satisfied with the quality of it. So kindly reconsider your decision to lay off anymore cast and crew for this show. Thank you.

Lillian from Fresno said...

We have never seen any other crime series apart from Criminal Minds and were shocked to find out that because of the economy, many writers - some great ones too - were laid off, and actors and actresses are not spared. The show has been climbing up the rating ladder, so I don't see any cause for this action.

Adrian, Pittsburgh said...

My workmates and I always talk about the show on Thursday and we always try to think like the cast too. We were shocked to know that CBS intends to cut back on some actors/actresses, esp the leader. It would be devastating and the show will never be the same without him.

Lyn, Boston said...

In the spirit of Easter, please do not cut anymore of the cast and crew from Criminal Minds. They have suffered enough the past week and the fans are in pain too!

Unknown said...

Ms. Tassler,

First I'd like to say that I can't believe that I love a show enough to write a letter to a network bigwig hoping that it'll be read. That being said, Criminal Minds is my escape. Every week, I look forward to new episodes because they challenge my intellect like no other show on ANY network. I own every DVD out currently and watch them over and over again. It is an escape for my everyday humdrum life and being in law school.

Next, I have never met such a dedicated fan base as the Criminal Minds Blog/Forum community. This speaks volumes for the love that people have for this show. The writers and actors are similarly fond of our community. I've never seen anywhere else where the writers and actors have been willing to stop by to chat, and even wrote us letters when they heard the tragic news about their layoffs so that we would hear it from THEM and nobody else.

Finally, it has been a long time since I've felt such a connection to the characters on any show. It is the doing of the writers and directors who are able to weave the amazing stories we look forward to so much each week. We've lost actors in the past, but that was out of their own choosing and the cast is perfect as it is now. I can guarantee you that if you let go any more of the writers or decide to fire any actors, you WILL get a group of very upset fans that will lose all faith in your show. Sure, your most loyal fans might stick around for awhile but whatever spark we saw in the show will be lost. Please do not take the livelihood from any more writers or actors, and I hope CBS will strongly reconsider hiring the writers that we've already lost.

A loyal fan,
Alice C.
Davis, California

SLB in St. Louis said...

Ms. Tassler,
Criminal Minds is the only show I have been watching religiously on TV. Thanks to the wonderful writers (incl. the ones who were forced to leave) Criminal Minds has become one of the top shows on Prime TV and certainly one of the highest rated crime dramas. While many crime shows , e.g., CSI Miami, CSI NY, CSI NV, the Mentalist Law & Order SVU, Flashpointare highly inaccurate or advertise/glorify inappropriate if not illegal police tactics (third degree, abuse of power, excessive force, criminal homicide) Criminal Minds has done an outstanding job in portraying professional investigative methods and interrogative methods.
Please allow this show to continue with its outstanding cast and writers.
Thank you,
SLB, St. Louis, MO

Jonas said...

To Ms. Tassler,

Please don't change Criminal Minds. It would be such a pity, a real pity if any of the present actors/actresses was asked to leave this season. We fans implore the management to seriously reconsider their decisions.

If the company need to cut costs, I'm confident that you guys can work something out other than firing one of the actors/actresses. Some fans have suggested that we can do without guest stars and guest directors, if that helps to cut costs. Anything but not the present actors & actresses.

Thank you for reading this. I'm sure there is always another way out. I'll be waiting for the good news.

Regards,
Jonas from Orange, CA
(A fan that is confident the management is able to work something out at the end)

Sabina said...

Dear Nina Tassler,
I usually shy away from movies and shows that feature graphic and horrific scenes. Criminal Minds is different by offsetting the cruelty with an especially empathetic and sensitive team. Of all of the wonderful cast members Thomas Gibson has done the most outstanding job in representing the FBI. He is a role model to many aspiring agents. Please don't take that away from us!
Thank you,
Sabina, Union MO

George said...

To Ms. Tassler,

My friends and I bonded through watching Criminal Minds and we were horror-struck to learn that an actor might depart this season. We were absolutely aghast by it. The show's perfect! Why the need to take one of the actors out?! We discussed about the possibility and the reasons this could happen. And we all felt that there could be other solutions and not to resort to this.

We really feel that if the show's going to be without one of its present actors/actresses, the show will never be the same, and so is the viewers ratings. Some of my friends are already pissed off with certain shows using this same tactic and have stopped watching them completely.

We seriously hope Criminal Minds would not be another of those shows that have been "victimized". We trust and have faith that the management is able to seek for other, better solutions.

Because Criminal Minds have never failed us before. And we hope this time round, it would not ruin this trust, this faith, this foundation that have been built over the years.

Thank you for your time.

On behalf of all my friends,
George from LA

Martina said...

Ms Tassler,
I'm so worried about my favourite show CM. You already fired five wonderful writers. One of them was the most talented writer and I can't imagine that somebody can replace Andrew Wilder. He knew the characters of CM like nobody else did and you can see in every episode he wrote how much he loved this show.
So without him in the team, I'm worried that CM will fall in a deep deep hole and I don't know if the show can get out of it safe.
And now you're threatening one of the actors.
Believe me, when you fire one of our beloved actors, you'll kill this show. This wonderful team of actors love this show and their characters and you can see in the extras on the DVDs that they really became friends off-time, too. So, why threatening one of them and by doing so split a team of wonderful co-workers and friends?
Why ever change a winning team? That's a thing I don't understand. So I hope you'll reconsider your decisions.
I, for myself, won't come back next season if any actor of my favourite show has to leave.
And I know I'm not alone.
Yours faithfully
Martina (Germany)

Anonymous said...

Please do not damage this show further. This is my favorite show on TV so if you do not want to lose me as a viewer from several of your shows... do not fire anyone else from this show. The cast and rest of the writers need to stay intact for this show to continue to work.
LH from NC

TeamPerryAZ said...

Ms. Tassler,
I love Criminal Minds and watch it every week. There are some upsetting rumors that you are considering getting rid of some of the actors. I am in shock, it is devastating. I love Thomas Gibson and the show won't be the same without him. He is an excellant actor and portrays Hotch incredibly.

Please if you are considering getting rid of any characters, please reconsider. I know I won't be watching if Thomas Gibson leaves.

Thank you for your time.

Alana said...

Nina Tassler,

I’m appalled and I must say, quite impressed with your actions. It’s not everyday that you hear that a network has managed to run a successful show to the ground in the record time of one week.
It’s also shocking to me, as a loyal follower of this show, of how little you know about it, especially because it’s been in your network for the past 4 years. Explain it to me, if you can, how can you even consider to let the lead character go? Should I be afraid for Simon Baker, Neil Patrick Harris, Jim Parsons and Charlie Sheen too? Or is Criminal Minds the only show you think you can deconstruct and it will last? And before I have any of my last words misinterpreted, no, it won’t be acceptable for anyone else on the cast to be let go. This is an ensemble, loved equally by their fans. Not one of these characters is expandable. Think less CSI, more How I Met Your Mother.

Now, if you try to argue with me that this show has already gone through that sort of thing with the sudden departure of Mandy Patinkin, oh, I’m obligated to point out to you that in that case, you had the audience on your side because you didn’t caused it. The fans got together to support the show because it deserved to be defended, however, this is not that case. Right now, every trouble this show is having lately, you are directly responsible for, disregarding how hurtful can turn out to be to not only the people responsible for delivering it every week, but creating a very serious backslash to your station. The audience does not like to be treated as if they don’t matter. Or taken for a group of people who will watch anything indifferently of its quality. Criminal Minds has quality, stable and high numbers and a very loyal fandom. Don’t think you can come and mess with every single one of these things and still end up with 13 million people faithfully watching.

It will be a pity, since I enjoy other three of your shows excluding Criminal Minds, if I find myself obligated to abandon your station for your competition, fearing that if you are capable of doing this with my one of your shows (my favorite, have I said that?), you’ll eventually do it with all of them.

Alana J. - NJ
Waiting for good sense and a little respect.

Jenna M said...

Dear Nina,

I'll try to be brief, but I'll fail.
For the past week, the fans of a little show (13 million viewers weekly) have heard nothing but bad news. We lost 5 writers, four thanks to you, one probably thanks to you, too. Now we may be losing one or more actors. Kindly tell me, how do you consider that those actions may, in any shape or form, bring back good results? Why, oh why, do you take a winning show and completely ruins it just like that? Because of the crises? Because of the crises you should be doing everything in you power to maintain the winning numbers that you have, not break it down and expect for the best as if the ending result wasn’t loud and clear: negative.
Please reconsider about the actors, and if I may, reconsider every single one of your recent actions too, for not one of them seem correct.

Jenna Miller - CO

Colleen Harris said...

After watching the new Criminal Minds last night, I was struck with what an amazing ensemble cast that you have at CM, and I'd so hate to see it be lost. It's one of those things that you can't get back.

Raphaele said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

I heard about the possibility of one lead actor from this wonderful show not returning for season five.
Please, do not do this.

The actors, especially Thomas Gibson, are the main reason for the success of Criminal Minds.
They are bringing to life the wonderful scenarios of the talented writers.

So if that happens, if one of the seven main characters is cut from this wonderful show, I'll be one of the numerous person to quit watching it.
Not one of them is expandable, the show can't loose one of them and survive.
This show may be 'case oriented', but make no mistake, it's the characters that make us come back.

The viewers are the one, ultimately, who are the judge.
If this show loses Thomas Gibson, or one of its other actors, the fans are going to stop watching. And a lot of them will boycott the other shows that air on CBS.
I know I will, and I won't be alone.

Please, try to understand the irreparable damages you would cause to this show, and to CBS.
Please, reconsider.

Take care,
Raphaele

Maria said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

Criminal Minds is world wide the best show and i´m a fan since the first ep. We lost 5 talented writers and this makes me very sad.
So please save the show and don´t cut actors. The show will not be the same.

Thanks
Maria (Germany)

Marcia Ann Miller from Texas said...

Hello Nina Tassler,

I'm a 26 years-old business woman who watches this show every time it's on, even when in reruns. And there are certain things that keep me coming back each and every week: how intelligent it is and how much I care for the characters. But in this past week, you have managed to seriously damage one and endanger the other. If you ruin and/or annul these two, what else do you have left? That's correct: nothing. And if the show loses them, tell me, what is the point of me bothering to come back? Well, there's no point. And now I'm so disappoint in how this station conducts their business, in such a reckless, illogical and unprofessional manner, I think I may just seize to follow it at all.

Rethink your actions, I'd say, because people choose to tune in your station, unless you no longer have anything to offer, in this case, because you single-handed devastated.

Anonymous said...

I'm CM fan from Poland and I have to admit that I was shocked to hear that you've fired 5 of your best writers. Why? I know about the crisis, but come on. CM is one of the best criminal shows on television and it would be sad to see it go downhill. Especially if you would even consider kicking out one of the actors. Don't do it do this show, people.

Pelle from Poland

bibi said...

don't cut more of writers or actors! the people will stop watching then. i am affraid of that!

yola said...

i love cm and loosing the writers hurted. please don't let go also a actor or more writers.
i am soooooooooooo afraid that we will loose a lot of fans with that and that in the end you will stop cm. but it is the BEST show ever

vanity said...

don't cut more on the show! the economical crisi is one side, but quality is another. we lost already 5 talented persons! i can't accept more

Tamara said...

as a fan from the first eppisode on, i want to ask you....please stopp saving money with letting great writers go! and i don't even want to think about actors!

i love cm! my favorite writers have gone, i am not sure what happens if there are also actors left if i will continue to watch.

i understand economical crisis and problems but why do you destroy the guarantee of good eps. good eps mean money!

caroline, from germany said...

i am a fan since the verry first ep. and i wrote with other fans from the whole world. everybody is shoked by the latest news.

and the fear that also one of the cast will go is big.

some fans announced that they will stop watching. that means for me a risk that the show will be stopped soon. but i don't want that.

so i want to aks you, to please stop it. don't let more people go away from the show we all love sooooo much!

patricia said...

I think if you need to cut costs, it is smarter to do less gandious settings and keep teh writers. They would be the ones creating the same quality of show without the rings and bells taht are not needed....Non the less, it sounds odd to cut off some of the actors that make the show such a success...

It only makes sense to cut on decoration more than on creativity!!!!don't you think?

Airam said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

i'm very sad, because of the five writers that have been fired from Criminal Minds. And now you want to fire also some actors? Please keep Criminal Minds as it is. This show has an amazing crew that shouldn´t be changed. There are so many other procedural shows out there but this one is on a higher level.

MB - Criminal Minds Fan
Germany

patricia said...

So things are though and you cut on the writers, instead of the big settings???

It is like to cut on food but keep the porsche....

It only make sense to cut on the decoration instead of the creativity! don't you think?

The writers ARE the main reason a show is a success or not.

Marnie said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

CM is the only crime show that i watch, but i will stop watching if you cut an actor, because the show wouldn´t be the same. I love the team so much because they all have such a great chemistry.
Please don´t ruin the show.

Thanks

Marnie
Criminal Minds Fan

April Benson said...

To CBS Nina Tassler and Ed Bernero,

I'm a 31 years old woman, see I am in the most favored demographic and a woman which mean I and anyone like me do bring good money from the advertisers to your Network and I am a CM fan since the first episode. For you to continue to have me as a viewer then you need to keep me happy. How can you do that? Leave my favorite show as it is. Do not let go of any of the actors. If you want me to sit down and watch live, no DVR when I watch CM, the season 5 opener then make sure that no actors are let go. If any are then I will simply watch something else on that night.

April Benson
Detroit.

Marla said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

You have already made a mistake by letting 5 writers go and you're about to make an even bigger one.

Letting one or more actors go is definitely not the way to attract more viewers, in fact you'll lose a big bunch of them. Why are you even thinking about changing up high quality show even more?

Do you really want to lower the standards and let Criminal Minds become an average show like so many procedurals you already have? Why is Criminal Minds being punished so heavily for being one of the best performing shows on television?

Criminal Minds is an intelligent show. It's well written and the actors really perform at their best every week. Really drawing you into the story. So much so that you can hardly wait for the next episode.

The reason the fanbase and the number of viewers keeps growing, unlike other shows you currently air. The show even scores highly when reruns are aired. Why do you think that is? Because of the great cast and crew of Criminal Minds!

Every week they pull together very good scripts and great acting make for a great team performance. Taking out even one of the actors would be a huge mistake, let's not talk about firing the best writer already at this point.

On and off the screen the Criminal Minds cast and crew is a well oiled machine. Giving you ratings other networks would only wish they could get. That machine will quickly lose all momentum if it starts leaking oil and that's exactly what's going to happen if you fire one of the actors.

Don't fire any of the actors, don't split up the team in any way, especially not the teamleader. The team cannot function without their teamleader, the one that kept and will keep it all together.

This fan, friends and family know what's going to happen if one of the team is not returning next season. The show will not recover from it and this fan, along with friends, will not watch a show without a soul. That's what will happen, if you fire even one of the actors.

Please do not change the show that has brought you so much viewers already and can give you even more. Criminal Minds has shown a steady growth in numbers and that will continue, if you let the cast and crew do what they do best. Create the best show on television.

By no means are they slipping, they're growing and they've only proven it by giving us fans better episodes every week. My favorite so far is Omnviore and that should tell you something.

The characters and actors are only exploring deeper in themselves now and that has brought a lot to the show already. It can only get even better, but not if you fire on or more actors. It will not bring you what you want, only the opposite.

Let Criminal Minds take it even to a higher level and you'll get so much in return. Please do not fire any of the actors. However hard it will be, but this fan will not watch Criminal Minds anymore, if you do.

Marla

Dina said...

I'm impressed with ALLL these comments!

As Glenn Close once said in Fatal Attraction, "I won't be ignored!" Hear that Nina Tassler! We won't ignored! Please don't change what it's good! Please don't fire actors, and please don't fire anymore writers! You need to rethink your actions, and BRING them(the writers) back! I am sure your head is spinning because you obviously underestimated Criminal Minds fans! We would do ANYTHING to have our show intact and hopefully MANY would take notice. We are passionate fans, and an article I read EVEN stated that Criminal Minds is the most accurate crime show! And that was from an FBI agent!! STOP all of this Nina!

SallyT said...

Ms. Tassler,

I am shock and disappointed. But I am also getting angry because the enormity of what has happened has finally sunk in.

You let go five of the brilliant writers who helped make CM a success. You even fired the best of them, the one who wrote Omnivore and many other awesome eps, the one who writes Hotch like no one else. Does this mean you'll let Thomas Gibson go next? Hotch is the heart and soul of the team. You simply can't replace him and his important role on the team and the show. And if you fire any of the other actors, you will not only destroy the team that has finally found its sure footing after the previous changes and the strike, but you’ll destroy the CM family, too.

I'm a fan from Germany which means I got up at 3 a.m. to chat with Thomas Gibson and Andrew Wilder two weeks ago. I buy all the DVDs. I get excited every week to see new episodes of this brilliant show. But if any more changes are made to CM, I'll be forced to stop watching it, as hard as it will be. You can't mess with a show and its fans indefinitely without losing their trust and support. CM needs its writers, its actors, and every member of the crew that has worked so hard for us over the past years. None of them deserves what’s happening at the moment. And none of them deserves to work on a show that might be remembered as the once brilliant crime series that was destroyed by absurd changes.

Please reconsider your actions. Saving money this way won’t work because you’ll not only loose a few wonderful people from your payroll, but the loyal fanbase as well.

Regards from a fan who has a very busy life outside the TV and Internet world,

SallyT

Anita said...

Ms. Tassler/Mr. Bernero,

I am posting , partially to ensure that you begin to understand what this show and ALL of its characters mean to people, and partially to try to demonstrate how serious and relentless we fans can be when we truly care about something. And I have plenty else that I could be doing; I'm sure my colleagues, family and friends are all feeling somewhat neglected. But they too, have expressed their own disappointment that such a quality TV show seems intent on imploding.

Business101: it costs more to get new customers than keep the old ones happy. Have you forgotten that first lesson in Marketing? Or the second: the customer is king? Please review your textbooks, and please review your current idea to get rid of a key character. I will definitely be walking if it's TGibson; his character, although part of a team, is the heart of the show and without him, it doesn't work. If it is anyone else... I will also walk. You cannot buy such cast synergy, sir and madame; I hope you reconsider before it is too late.

Regards,
Anita

Liz said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

I've decided to post because I just can't stand by and watch you try to ruin Criminal Minds. It has been said here many times, but this show is amazing. I love everything about it.

It has the most incredible cast, that fits so well together that it's almost unreal. I love all the actors. They deliver such great performances every week that it's amazing. They make this show what it is. They are the reason we connect with the characters, why we have our favourites and come back and watch them every week. They are the glue of this show. They are all tremendously important to the success of this show. I honestly can't see the show working without any of the characters. They just complement eachother so well. This is like a family, so please don't break that apart. The results would be devastating.

It has the most talented writers in the business that manage to capture your attention and spark your imagination every single week. To let five of them go is an unthinkable step. You already tempted fate with that. Please don't touch the cast because that would be far too much for the loyal fans to take. This show is about to change dramatically. Please don't make it more dramatic than it needs to be.

I'm sure that there can be other ways to save money, because I'm sure you heard that "Where there's a will, there's a way". Please find that will to keep this show intact. An actor leaving will be the end of this show. Especially since the target seems to be one of the central characters and one of the most loved and appreciated characters. But the truth is that this show cannot do without any of the characters or cast members. This is a winning team for you. Please think of that before you take any action that may endanger that. Criminal Minds has a very dedicated and loyal fanbase. But this could all change in a second, with some bad management decisions.

I have a BA in Marketing and I honestly tell you that I have no idea what you are thinking. You have a gold star show on your hands and now it seems you don't want that anymore. Take a step back and see the bigger picture here. This show is nothing but good news for CBS, from all points. It has good demographics,it has very little promo and still the ratings are great each week. Even in reruns it beats Lost by a mile. The truth is CBS hit gold with it. And now you want to throw all that away? What could possibly be the motivation of that?

Again please, think very well about the consequences of what you're about to do and reconsider. Especially in what the cast is concerned. We could not take to see anyone go, and I do really mean no one, least of all Thomas Gibson.

We LOVE them all
We NEED them all
so PLEASE KEEP THEM ALL

Criminal minds Fanatic

Liz

Natasha said...

Please Mrs Tassler,
don't fire more writers or even actors from my favourite show. This show can't exist without them. I was so angry when I heard you fired Andrew Wilder, who is in my opinion the best writer of that team, and 4 other wonderful talented writers whose work I really appreciated over the last 4 years.
I can't understand you. Doing it for economic reason is a very lame excuse in my opinion. When you fire the best cast and crew a show can have, ratings will fall down because fans won't watch this show anymore.
So please overthink the decisions you already made and the once you're going to make.
Is it worth killing a great show like that in this way?
Yours,

Natasha

Marcella said...

Why make any changes to a show steadily growing its numbers, especially this year?

Why make any changes to a show with a fantastic fanbase and with well over 10 million weekly viewers?

Why make any changes to a show with talented and good writers?

Why make any changes to a show where the characters are really complementing each other?

Why make any changes to a show in which all the actors portray the characters so intensely?

Why make any changes to a quality show and take the risk that it results in a lower and undesirable quality?

Why make any changes to that show at all?

Why not explore the characters and their storylines even more?

Why not let the actors profit from great scripts and let them create more great episodes like Omnivore?
One of the best episodes ever!!

Why not profit from the fact that Criminal Minds is the most intelligent show on television and therefore more and more people watch every week?

Why not let a good show just be a good show?

Marcella

Aline said...

I'm still shocked. And I'm still absolutely curious as to how you intend to maintain the quality and with that the audience by alienating the people who make this show possible every week. Are you aware that the show that brings you 14 million people every week has now lost the writers of 10 out of 19 episodes that have already aired this season? Where is the logic behind that? Respect is what we are all asking here. For the writers, for the cast, for everyone involved and for the fans who do nothing but support this show, even against said Network if we have to.

Aline

Helen Christy said...

Ms. Tassler,

do me a favour, please. Go look at allie's message again. She posted a list that Maddie, from the Criminal Minds Fanatic Message Board, had compiled. Look at that list. Count the episodes.

There is over a season of quality Criminal Minds epiodes on that list.

So you got rid of a season's worth of episodes. Now, you're talking about possibly cutting an actor. And that's the show, ladies and gentlmen. Because this show is about a family; it's not about a headlining star. It's not about the blood and gore. It's about the family. Lose a member of the family, then lose the whole family because it'll be broken.

Please remember that when you're sitting up there in the board room making decisions.

Helen Christy
From VA

Stephen said...

Ms. Tassler,
This show, as good as it is, cannot survive the cut of its major character, nor any of the others. Please reconsider your actions. I watch CM because of the great interaction between the cast. If you tamper with it, I won't watch anymore.

Naomi said...

Please do the right thing. Please give all the CM fans what they are asking for: ALL cast members back for Season5. Nothing short of that will be enough for this viewer. Thank you.

Patricia said...

Nina Tassler,
This show has the quality to be a money-maker for you for years, yet you try to destroy your cash cow? I don't understand. Cutting writers was the first bad move, cutting an actor from this fabulous cast is just plain suicidal. Please reconsider.

Emily Stracken, UK said...

Finally, we get a well-researched, well-written television program and now all of this?! Do not follow up the ludicrous sacking of superb writers w/ that of an actor. I'll refuse to watch CM should any of the cast not return next year, especially TG's Aaron Hotchner, who has been your underrated rock all along.

Barb said...

I'm a hard-working single parent who has one night to herself a week. I choose to use that evening to watch CM. Now I hear that five writers have been fired and an actor is under threat? I implore you, please leave the show alone, if you let go of any of the wonderful cast, you will have changed the fabric and I will have to find something else to do on my night off.

Darcy said...

Nina Tassler,

Why is this all happening? Cm is a great show that do well yet you reward it with firing five writers and letting go of an actor??? What is the thinking in that?

I hope you will not do this Ms. Tassler, CM may not recover from it.

Darcy Hutton
San Francisco

Sarah said...

I don't watch much TV but I do watch CM every week it's on. The reason: It is fascinating, it is well done, it has fantastic actors and I even learn something. That makes great TV for me. Many of my friends are watching now too. I am upset that you fired so many great writers. I am appalled that you are even considering letting one of the main characters go. This is a successful show perhaps you make due with a little less money in your own pockets or find other ways to save money, e.g., forfeit expensive explosions, car chases etc. Those aren't really necessary when you have such fantastic actors and creative writers. Please don't rob us of a great show. CBS has messed up many times before if you mess with my favorite show I'll stop watching your station altogether. There's still NBC, ABC, Fox, FX etc.
Please don't forget your audience and make the right decision.
Best regards,
Sarah, MO

Rachel said...

FIVE writers?!
To cut ANY writers is unthinkable, but FIVE?!

And now there's talk of actors as well?!

If Thomas Gibson or ANY of the show's incredible actors or actresses are cut...

...well, you will have one less viewer.



Rachel, 19
Washington, PA

Hannah said...

You have a cast that excels at every script they touch...

...why on EARTH would you want to mess with that?!

If ANY member of the cast goes...
...so do I.

And I'm willing to bet that I'm not the only one.


Hannah, 21
Charlotte, NC

Paula said...

Well I watched the show yesterday like any other wednesday night....but it was not..why? Because all I could think was that without Hotch (TG) this show would not have the same appeal to me...as simple as that, so please do not let go ANY of the cast.

Erica said...

To Nina Tassler,

I just don't get it. You fired five writers among them the best writer on the serie and then as if that wasn't destructive enough you want to let go of one of the actors???? What is wrong with CBS this days. I thought you liked having successful shows. Well you better not let anyone go, if you do you will have one less successful show on your schedule next season. If any of the cast is let go, especially Thomas Gibson who play the BAU unit chief Aaron Hotchner, then I will be watching something else on Wednesday at
9h00. I hear cable got some gret shows. Maybe I will give them a try.

Erica

Bruni said...

Mrs Tassler,

I’m waiting for all of your recent actions to make sense. But how could they?

In the economy that we all are, your station has the best numbers. Even when you do nothing, nothing, nothing to earn it, since there’s no sign of Criminal Minds anywhere in the media, so, instead of show some appreciation to that, you decide that it’s time for you to go from area to area in this show and take away everything you can without thinking twice? Explain to me how could you fire 5 writers when those are the ones who deliver this show every week in an intelligent, intriguing and heartfelt way? The same people who were the first to come back from the writers’s strike and who are giving you this season 26 episodes instead of the usual 23? And to let go of those who have been with the show since day one, what and irresponsible, unthought-of decision.

But that does not seem to be enough, now you want to take from this show its leader and maybe more. This show is not about serial killers, Mrs. Tassler, is about those who catch them. That’s the reason we come back. The characters (everyone of them) are what carries this show. And the writers, who drive. And you have done enough already.
How do you want to end this season with 13, 14 million viewers and expect the same numbers next season, if we are about to receive a completely different show? You won’t get those numbers.
Have some respect and show us you deserve our time, stop running a winning show into the ground.

Bruni, 27, LA

Margaret said...

Ms. Tassler,

cutting costs, I understand that. The economy is in a huge downturn and everyone knows that you need to cut costs. But this is ridiculous! You have lost five writers, four of whom would have stayed on had you not fired them, and now you're talking about cutting a cast member?! Please, please stop picking on Criminal Minds.

Five writers is far too many, never mind the loss of Thomas Gibson as well, or any of the other cast, for that matter! You've made your cuts, stop now! They say "quit while you're ahead," but I have to say You're not even ahead anymore. If you fire Thomas Gibson or any of the other cast members you'll be so far over the line of what's acceptable you'll lose all these viewers. Read their posts again; they aren't beating around the bush.

Please, please stop picking on Criminal Minds. Leave the the cast intact, unlike the writing staff!

Margaret
Canada

Vicky said...

I've got a fever of 38degrees celcius yet even I am not crazy enough to think that my show will not be totally wrecked by the removal of an actor. Please, take an aspirin and reconsider. Leave CM alone!

Brent said...

Dear Ms. Tassler,

I'm don't watch a lot of tv, but CM has been a winner in books from the beginning... a great mix of characters, action and creepy unsubs. But I know that I will, with sadness, give it up should you choose to remove even just actor. Can you not see the winning chemistry they have? I truly hope that you are listening to all of us fans... the message is clear.

Tamara Gilmartin, Or said...

Dear Ms. Tassler,

I am finding it tough to put the degree of my anger into words. Yes, the economic downturn has put pressures on us all. But somehow the firing of 5 writers from one of your top-performing shows does not make long-term sense. Are you so determined to sink CM that you now seem to be firing an actor? That's just nuts. Please reconsider; I hope that I will not have to for Season 5.

Jackie said...

Hello. I thought you might need a bit of a reminder that it is a privilege to produce a show for fans. Everyone involved w/ CM has done a wonderful job of providing us with a solid product so that I actually felt privileged to watch it. But recent events have me seriously reconsidering... please do not become cocky and complacent. Leave our actors alone or you will become just another sub-par program that fans will walk away from. Thank you.

Dr. E. McGrath, Ca. said...

CM does so much for CBS while getting absolutely no respect. Nothing too flashy, just good quality viewing. I'm very concerned that you are trying to destroy this show... writers, now a top actor? I'm definitely going to think carefully before deciding on whether or not to continue to support this program... a real shame. Please reconsider and leave ALL actors alone.

Lea said...

I am this close to abandoning this show IF NONE OF THE ACTORS AND WRITERS COME BACK! Have you head-honchos over there GONE MAD?

Stephen Harris said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

With so many options entertainment wise you should considered yourself lucky that I spend an hour a week watching one of your shows. I watch Criminal Minds because it is a great show excellent writing and top notch acting. Now i read all those notes from the writers who were fired from CM and wonder about what is your goal here, saving money? Well maybe in the short run. But then I read that you want to sack an actor too? I can't believe this. This show works because of those characters. Lose one and it will be crippled, lose Hotchner, who is the heart and soul of the BAU then lose your show.

If you fire any of the actors then i will considered that you don't care about quality and MY viewership, so i will take it somewhere else.

I hope you will take the right decision, the one where the 473 fans before me are asking you to take, do not fire any of the cast.

Thank you.

Stephen Harris
Buffalo

Eddie said...

TG rocks! MGG rocks! They all rock! And none deserve to go the same way as those poor writers. Do not compound your mistake. Leave this great cast intact or you will find out the hard way how fans can unite.

Wendy said...

What has happened to my show?! The only show I have dedicated myself to for 3+ years! Writers gone poof! And so many of them. Now you want to take an actor??? *shaking head* I just do not understand your logic, if you have any. If it is merely to get ratings for end-of-season, then enjoy your moment because that is all it will be. ALL of our actors need to be back next year for this fan to come back too. Please consider the effects of your decision.

Wendy
age 29

Amy Smith said...

Dear Ms. Tassler/ Mr. Bernero,

I have been a HUGE CM fan since the very first program. A tremendously well-written show with a good balance of action, plot and characters. Why are you screwing up a winning formula? Leave the actors alone, especially your lead. CM won't be CM and won't be worth a penny without Mr. Gibson and his Hotchner. You can assume that if he isn't there, I won't be a viewer any longer. Please reconsider b/c I really do love the show.

Tiffiny said...

Please listen to the fans... we do NOT want any more change coming to our favourite show! No more firings of ANY staff, crew or cast. We need everybody back for season 5. Do you hear us? Please listen.

Tiffiny,
Fla.

Derek said...

My wife loves your show, especially Hotchner. Says he is the key to the team, although she seems to love them all. Don't mess with any of them. Leave CM alone, its fine as it is.

Deanna said...

CBS, did you think you were going to get away what you were doing quietly? HA, don't make me laugh! We are much smarter than that, and wayyyy ahead of you in this game of yours. That is a total mistake in what you are doing. Why are you trying to destroy CM? As Shemar once said it was the little "engine"(show) that could. Please don't touch ONE actor or it's adios CM, and if you let go anymore writers to adios CM again.

And ANOTHER THING: HAVE BETTER LEAD INS FOR OUR SHOW! Old Christine and Gary Unmarried ARE NOT GOING TO CUT IT!

Danny a HUGE CM fan said...

hey I love CM, this is my favorite show. I watch a few show on CBS, CSI, BBT and CM. I love all the characters, especially JJ, she is cute, Reid is cool and Hotch is the boss I wish I had even if he is a bit stern. I don't know why you get rid of any of the actors. they are great! Like everyone else here I say don't touch the cast!
We want them all back at the BAU next season. No exception!

Danny from
Miami.

Cheryl said...

You have started to break up our show, now it is time to ensure no more cracks. No actors are expendable, especially not TG. All need to be back next season if the show i've come to love is one i still want to watch.

Cheryl, 19

seriously angry said...

Dear Sir/Madame,

It is too late to save our beloved writers (did you really need to take 5?? Surely you could have chopped a few thousand $ from somewhere else?!) but I will not take the firing of an actor lying down. Please don't even think to cite the economy or 'creative differences'... we all know how false those would be. You want us to keep watching, all the cast better be back for next year.

Linda said...

Nina Tassler,

Why are you messing with such a great show in CM? I understand the need for cuts, but you have gone too far. And now an actor is under threat? Good god, when will this end? Please leave this excellent ensemble of actors alone; we don't want to lose any of them. I will definitely not watch if you continue these ridiculous decisions. Please think carefully before raising the axe.

Leanne said...

You may think that CM can survive another big name being fired after Gideon's departure. You would be wrong. Leave TG and all of his colleagues in peace. They do wonders together on screen.

Roberta said...

To CBS/Ed Bernero,

Our show was hit hard when it lost so many writers. For us fans, it was painful to read all their goodbye letters on the CMF Blog.
But I REALLY don't want to read one of those letters from a cast member. I want Thomas Gibson, Matthew Gray Gubler, A.J Cook, Kirsten Vangsness, Paget Brewster, Joe Mantegna and Shemar Moore to be back for season 5.

They better be there or I will not!

Roberta from
NY

Sue said...

I hope that you are reading each and every one of these posts because it is pretty clear that no matter where we come from, we all agree: leave our show alone! PLEASE! No more firings! Touch anyone, but especially my favourite actor, Thomas G, and you'll have lost another viewer.

Sue

Dennis said...

Nina Tassler/Ed Bernero:

writers + actors = excellence (CM)

firing writers + an actor = -viewers

Since you seem to care more about equations than sense, maybe this will help you to see more clearly.

Vanessa said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

for the past four years I made sure to be at home or if not to set the DVR on every Wednesday night at 9h00pm so I don't miss Criminal Minds. If any of the actors are not back next season then I will no longer consider CM a must not miss show anymore. It will pain me to do so but I just cannot imagine CM without any of it's actors, especially my favs, Hotchner and Reid.

I hope you will hear my plea and all the fans to keep the cast together.

Vanessa
Minneapolis, MN

JD said...

Just one thing to say: we don't one to lose any of the actors.

JD

Phil and Ann said...

I'm so incredibly angry with you lot at CBS! Writers, now an actor, perhaps a leading light. Criminal Minds is a great crime drama. Part of what makes it so good is the obvious 'family' cohesion between the cast. Don't mess it up. No more firings! We won't stand for it!

Kim and her dad said...

Hi,

One of the primary reasons that I got into Criminal Minds was that it was something that both my dad and I could enjoy together. Whilst we have different favorite characters, we love them all. Recent rumors of an actor leaving has us both extremely concerned... the show will not be the same if Hotchner goes, that is for sure, and my dad and I will have to find something else to watch. Please consider these 'little' things and leave our cast intact. Cheers.

Kaitlin said...

It needs repeating:
Thomas, Joe, Matthew, Shemar, AJ, Paget and Kirsten.

We want, and NEED them all.

Stop the madness!

Belinda said...

I love CM, I really do. But I'm scared out of my mind. Key writers are now gone and the word is an actor will follow. Pleeeease do not fire any of the cast. We are so fortunate to have such talents as Thomas Gibson and MGG et al. They are a close knit team and it shows on screen. Get rid of any of them and you will do serious damage. Get rid of the heart (TG) and you'll die a death. I for one, will seriously be considering my channel preferences.

Mel said...

Dear Ms. Tassler/ Mr. Bernero,

Do you know the power that CM characters have in reality? Take someone like Hotch: great leadership skills without being perfect so believable. TG's portrayl is sublime. MGG's Reid is another... a good role model for youngsters.
So in addition to being a wonderful cast, each character brings something extra, these 2 in particular. CM would not be the same without this essential ingredient, do not let an actor go!

BlackShadow said...

CM is great and that is because of the cast! Love them all, want them all back next season!

BlackShadow

Dots, LA said...

Please spare the cast of the show, CM will not be the same without any of them, especially Aaron Hotchner!!

Keith, NY said...

Criminal Minds have so many loyal and devoted fans and viewers in USA and around the world. Don't change it by taking away any of the actors. Thank you.

Nicole said...

To Nina Tassler,

I understand Ms. Tassler that you have a budget and that with this econnomy things are difficult. Believe me I know, my husband was laid off three weeks ago. So when I read that people on my favorite show are or could be laid off it makes me feel sad for them.

I understand their anguish and fear. But Ms. Tassler think of the viewers if you don't want to think about those you are taking their livelihood away from them. We, the viewers in this hard time need our entertainment to take our minds of reality. CM is a show that I watch so I can escape to a world were the good guys most will often win against the bad guys and that makes me feel good. Those good guys are needed, they are all important, all of them so please do not let any go. Keep the cast together.

Thank you Ms. Tassler.

Nicole Goodman

faye said...

Dear Ms Tassler,

Criminal Minds is the highlight of my week, TV-wise. While the actors, directors, and crew are a talented and unified team, in large part this show succeeds because the writing is head and shoulders above the other prime-time offerings on network television.

Indeed, Criminal Minds sits above most, if not all, other crime dramas currently on the air. The team dynamic, insight into the motivations of the unsubs and character development keep fans coming back even during seasons where newer shows are competing for their attention.

Who is responsible for this kind of accolade? The writers. I have often said of Criminal Minds that it's amazing that in group scenes how a single line of dialogue can define how each team member sees a situation differently, yet complementarily. This is the screenwriting and nothing else, and this is the kind of thing that has prompted me to get many of my friends watching.

Indeed, many of those same friends have expressed sadness that the tone of Criminal Minds has changed in this season. Yet some of the episodes that kept them watching, some of the most controversial, in-depth, thought-provoking and character-driven episodes were written by the writers that were fired.

Why take apart a well oiled machine? Please reconsider this mass firing of writers. Keep Criminal Minds at its best.

Thank you,
Faye D.

Anonymous said...

Mrs Tassler,

I know the times are difficult but I still ask you to rethink your decisions. It's difficult to imagine CM continuing on the same level as before without these wondeful writers!

Leila,
Finland

Lara Gagnon said...

Hi,

My name is Lara and I'm a Criminal Minds fan. I have come to join all the other fans in the hope that you won't take this show apart. I love Criminal minds the way it is right now. If you take any action against the cast it will most certainly ruin it for me. And I would really hate to see that happen. Criminal minds is the only show I watch regularly right now. I have a busy schedule and even watching it takes a tremendous effort. But I don't miss any episodes, because it's definately worth the effort.It is also worth the effort to come here and ask you ro reconsider any action drastic action you might have in mind concerning the cast. Believe me I have never done this before and highly doubt I will do it again. But this show is a joy for me every week and it's definately worth fighting for. I can only hope you won't ignore the score of people that have come here with the honest belief that their opinions matter to you. Don't ruin this show for us. Please

Lara Gagnon,
Montreal, Canada

Anonymous said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

why is there any change? Criminal Minds is the one thing finally working really great on tv :(
Changes are bad luck, we know that from experience.

Anonymous said...

I can't explain to myself how goods actors and writers that made a good job can be change.

rosalioka

Anonymous said...

This show is fantastic for his actors and writers, it'a pity to change this thing!!

rem

Anonymous said...

The show is perfect the way it is. Changing it know will just lead to a loss in viewers. All the members work together they all have there own chemistry that makes up the show.It doesn't need a change when everything is perfect the way it is.

Anonymous said...

I have recently been through an experience of a new person coming in to act as a leader for our group. She thought differently. She wanted to save money so she had it in her mind that she needed to "clean house" in her words. She caused so much fear and anxiety that it was just wrong. Nearly very person in our office went to the campus equity office to discuss a hostile workplace and our concern that our students were going to suffer from this. As the investigation when on it was proven that there was nothing to clean so after six months ... she was gone.

The way she was trying to cut costs was wrong just the way CBS is wrong on how Criminal Minds is being treated. This show works ... stop trying to destroy a show that is making you and your advertisers money.

If you sit down and think... surely you can come up with a more creative way to cut costs.

Please no more cuts in writers. Andrew Wilder wrote my favorite episodes... please reconsider.

Please do not touch any of the actors. Hotch, Reid, Morgan, Garcia, Rossi, JJ and Emily are the core of this show. They are needed to make this show continue as a whole.

It was Mandy and Lola's choice to leave Criminal Minds... that the fans can deal with. But people being forced off ... we do not forget and we are not a happy group right now.

CBS is not only hurting our writers and actors... but they are hurting themselves. You will lose not only very talented people but you will lose viewers.

Graham from North Carolina

Kathryn said...

This is like one of the saddest news I have ever heard this year! I know times are hard and all, but I believe that there is still a way to keep the cast, crew, and writers intact despite the budget cut.

5 writers not renewing for the next season is a bad enough news. Taking one of the actors off the next season will be the hugest tragedy. The show will definitely never be the same again.

And I don't think any of the devoted fans will be prepared for that...

Tyler said...

Ms Tassler,

I don't watch much television. Most of it just...doesn't appeal to me. But the thing that drew me to Criminal Minds was the 'knights of the round table' feel. The show is about the team. No one character is more important than the others. They're a TEAM.

And if you take away ANY member of the team the show will never be the same. And NOT in the good sense.

Tyler, 23
London, OH

Betty said...

Dear Nina,

a friend just told me that you fired those writers from my favorite show Criminal Minds and that you are even thinking of firing actors. Now I am afraid to watch the season finale because I don’t want to see any of my beloved characters die. Please don’t do this! They are like family for me, I just couldn’t stand to see any of them leave or die.

Regards,
Betty

Cheryl, CA said...

I understand that due to the economic downturn, cutbacks need to be done, but surely not on a show that is on the top 10 ratings. Can you seriously reconsider your decision so that not to lose the viewers' confidence in the show? Thank you very much in advance.

Anonymous said...

I don't understand why you fired these 5 writers. They are crucial to Criminal Minds being a success. The show is only as great as it's writers. Andrew Wilder for me has to be the best writer that Criminal Minds has ever had. If you are trying to save costs why not look at other ways of doing this.

I am so disappointed with you for doing this dirty action on our much loved writers. Shame on you!!

Olivia said...

What I've read thus far has really put me in a funk! I love these characters, and never before in the history of television have I ever cared for characters more than I do now. I've invested a lot in these actors/characters and that means they are doing one hell of a job for the audience to understand them. These characters now they are flawed, but yet try to do what is right. They know they can't save everyone, but they try. These actors/characters keep the show together! You can't have a show without actors/characters, then TV would be tedious. And I agree with one poster: I am indeed afraid to watch the season finale cause I dread to learn who will not be coming back! This is gosh darn depressing.

Olivia, 25 NY

Arianna Noel said...

Please don't change one of my favorite shows. firing people who have made this show what it is, is insane. i love this show, and everything about it. so please, stop while your ahead. don't fire more people!

Anonymous said...

To Nina Tassler,

I remained loyal to CM after the departure of 2 actors because I knew that it was their choice. I will NOT remain loyal if you fire any of them. In fact, if you fire any of them or make any more changes to CM, I will boycott CM and all the other CBS shows that I currently watch.

Ben

Pamela from Topeka Kansas said...

I watched CM last Wednesday, and tried to think what the show would be like without Morgan or Rossi or Prentiss or Hotch, or Reid, or JJ or Garcia, it was depressing. I just couldn't see CM without any of them because they are all important to the show.

Don't change anything CBS, please

Pam

Anonymous said...

To Ms. Tassler,

Firing 5 wonderful writers, one of whom (Andrew Wilder) has written some of the best episodes of the show, makes no sense to me. And then following that action by possibly firing actors from this top 10 show is, in my opinion, complete insanity and makes no business sense whatsoever.

Out in the real world, excellent managers know that when times are tough, you cut out the bottom 10%, not the top 10%.

If you want to keep the viewers, who are ultimately the ones who make money for you, then please stop this insanity now and consider rehiring some of the writers back.

Gary

Chloe said...

To Nina Tassler,

Think twice before making some cast changes, it rarely works for the best. I was looking at the ratings for CSI last night and they are down again. CSI lost its lead actor and look at what is going on. The demo use to be in the 5.0 for the 18-49 now barely a 3.7. that is a huge lost. What do you think will happen with CM if any of the actors leave?

If you think that CM did bounce back well from losing two actors before well sure it did because the fans knew those actors wanted to go. This time isn't the same, you want to fire someone over budget reason. Beside from chatting, reading posts on the CMF Blog, we know the actors are happy on CM. So we know no one would be happy to leave. We wouldn't be happy either. Unhappy viewers means less viewers.

Leave CM as it is.

Chloe

Unknown said...

Dear Nina,

The more I keep thinking about this situation, the more I dislike it. I am saying this with all due respect but please, leave the talented actors and writers on CM alone or you will lose you viewers. They ALL bring so much to the show, why would you want to break up a sturdy family....after all they are a family, and a family that works well together. Please from the bottom of my heart, leave them alone!!

Sincerely,

Lisa

Erin said...

"Look, man, are you a pain in my ass? Yes, sir! But wantin' to hang out with you, and needin' you to lead this team are two very different things." - Derek Morgan, [i]In Birth and Death[/i], Season 3

Erin said...

^ Said to Hotch.

Madison Rose said...

I just want to state the obvious: Lawrence Fishburne makes 14 million dollars an episode AND YOU AT CBS ARE HURTING FOR CASH? REALLY? and YOU WANT TO FIRE ACTORS AND WRITERS? Something is not right in Kansas City!

Madison Rose, 18

Aggie said...

Please don't mess with CM. The cast is perfect, and the writers are vital.
AW is your best writer, please re think letting him go.
As for losing one or more actors, you would be cutting off your right arm, and doom the show.

Leanne said...

It is disturbing to see CBS reacting in the same manner as the other networks. Those in charge need to keep in mind that in the days where other forms of entertainment is readily available, you cannot afford to alienate your audience.

Criminal Minds is one of the few intelligent, well-written and well-acted shows on television. Those who compose it's dedicated following watch it for that reason. Changes to the writing and acting staff have the potential to alter that and you risk alienating those who are the most supportive of the show.

An ensemble show such as Criminal Minds relys on the entire production team from the directors and producers to the cast to the off-screen staff. While I understand the need to cut costs during a difficult time please remember that you do not have a network without people watching your shows. And if the quality of your highest rated shows are in jeopardy, maintaining viewership will become even more difficult...and gaining new viewers even more so.

As the saying goes - don't bite the hand that feeds you.

~ Leanne Davis

Anonymous said...

I just cannot believe that CBS has fired five of Criminal Minds writers. Not to mention that two of them are original and have been with the show for four seasons. Only the writers can accurately give the characters the their voice. If the writer isn't loyal to the character...the actors can't do their jobs either. Please stop and rethink your actions. Please don't destroy this show... it's in the top ten... please leave it alone.
April

doferrall said...

CBS,

Don't mess with a good thing. Cm consistantly brings in high numbers so you need to keep it consistant!!! Don't mess with it and keep all the actors. they are ALL important and it wouldn't be CM if any of them have to leave!!

doferrall

Jade R. said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

Being a writer myself, I know how much hardwork and effort it is to come up with new ideas for each episode. These writers put a lot of their hearts into this work, which makes this show such a success. Therefore, firing them puts this show in jepordy and the we fans do not want the best show on television tampered with. With all due respect, Ms. Tassler, please reconsider your actions.

-- Jade R.

Alex Linde said...

I’m very disappointed at CBS right now. A network with so many good shows to offer and so little respect for them, it’s clear. How can you expect your shows to be the best if you do nothing but take from them everything that makes them that way?
I have been a fan of Criminal Minds since the first season. Every Wednesday, I seat and watch it. I like this show. I like the writing, the cases, but most of all, I like how much this team of seven people interact. They are a family, and they are the reason I come back every week, to see them move forward.
When I first heard about the writers being lay off, I thought that the show cold be okay, even though I was heartbroken to hear that such talents as Andrew Wilder and Debra J. Fisher are leaving us after four years. But still, we were left with another great team of writers and even though it may be difficult, the show itself would continue, because the characters would still be the same and the premise intact. Now there’s the possibility of one of the actor being lay off. The lead actor, for that matter. What are you thinking? It’s like you decided to undo a show that was perfect just as it was. There’s nothing that needs to be done for this show be amazing. Just needs to be left alone.
What am I suppose to take from this, CBS? That the show I have been loving for four years, it’s simply no longer fit for your station and needs to be redone?
If I want a new show, I’ll look for one. I want Criminal Minds as Criminal Minds, with the writers that are left in peace and the actors untoched. Or I can assure you, I’ll be done with your station as soon as the season finale fades to black.

AL, Atlanta

t_vo said...

I think the powers that be at CBS must be nuts for messing with such an amazing show. It is easily one of the smartest, best-written shows on TV bar none. It is a shame that CBS has done such a disservice to one of its best shows and its fans. Please reconsider re-employing these brillant writings and make our show whole again!

Jean said...

I've been a loyal fan of Criminal Minds since it's beginning. I've thoroughly enjoyed seeing the growth of the characters and maturity of the writers as this whole production team has come together. Season 4 has been the best yet and up until recently, I was really looking forward to Season 5. The cutting of key writers shook me to the core, but now an actor, potentially the glue that holds it together? No, I will not put myself through that. Not only will I boycott the finale, but CM will no longer be something I wish to support. Please do the right thing and have ALL of our actors back next year.

Jean, Kansas

Samantha said...

Unlike so many 'run of the mill' shows, Criminal Minds continues to get better, challenging itself and its audience. It is able to do so because of fantastic writing and acting. I was extremely upset to hear of the loss of our writers, especially so many. Now an actor under threat, and potentially our anchor? CM will change irreversibly if we lose even just one character. Please leave ALL of our cast intact, especially TG.

Rob said...

Finally a show that isn't afraid to be creepy and show the horrible side to human nature. But now you've cut writers and maybe an actor? Nope, can't afford to lose any of them! Leave CM alone, go make your cuts somewhere else.

Rob, CT

Catherine said...

Each one of our characters brings something unique and valuable to the table. We need them all. We supported previous departures b/c we knew the actors wanted to go. We will not stand-by this time knowing the cast is happy. Fire an actor and you'll have one less fan.

Cath, Wa.

Jeff said...

Contract for the CM Fandom to return to watch Season 5:

"We at Criminal Minds/CBS promise to have ALL 7 actors returning for next year's Season5 (and not just he opener). That is: TG, PB, MGG, JM, AJC, KV and SM."

Nothing less will get this guy to come back.

Jeff, Iowa

Matthew said...

Are we still on planet earth? What ever possessed you to start tampering with our great show? Put the economy to the side, b/c you have other places you can cut back. You've already canned writers, don't make the mistake of firing an actor. The fans are uniting and making it clear: we want them all safe and sound into Season 5 or you'll be looking for a new audience.
Please consider the long-term effects of your decision.

Darcy said...

Stop this before CM no longer resembles the show I fell in love with. I will NOT tolerate the loss of a single cast member, especially Hotch. He is more than the 'authority' figure! Drop any of these wonderful actors and I will no longer support CM or your station.
This is getting ridiculous!

Amy said...

I'm a well-educated, experienced business person. Your decision regarding cutting writers was a still a mystery... one perhaps, but 5? For one of your top programs? I fail to see the longer term gain. And to make matters worse, an actor is under threat? Please do not make the same mistake twice. Leave our actors alone, not a one is expendable, NOT one. Thank you.

Anonymous said...

Please leave the actors alone. You've done enough damage. All seven core actors must return next season or you will lose a lot of viewers. I do watch several shows on CBS and I will stop watching if any actor leaves against their wishes.

AGG

Emily said...

I'm trying to understand your logic for getting rid of so many writers, and now an actor??!!! The downturn in the economy might partially explain it, but 5 writers from one of your best shows? Come on. So what else? Trying to shock us? Well, short-term, yep, I guess so, but long term, you'll lose. The fans love ALL of the characters. We want them ALL back next year. There is no sensible reason for this not to happen.

Regards, Emily
United Kingdom

Grace said...

Ms. Tassler/Mr. Bernero,

I'm wondering how much you care about the serious fans of CM? Remember us? The loyal, devoted fans who return week after week, have stuck by you when you lost 2 actors because we knew it was their choice. Please do not assume we will do so again, as it is perfectly clear how happy your cast are and how great their chemistry. We will be watching carefully... don't blow it.
Thomas Gibson et al return next year or I for one, will definitely not.

Joanna said...

I may not understand the world of showbiz, but I tell you this much..if this show loses one of the actors I won't watch anymore. It just wouldn't be the same.

Joanna
Chicago, Ill

Lexie said...

Never would I have imagined that Criminal Minds would ever be in danger, but it most certainly is. First writers are let go and now the actors aren't even safe either. This simply can't be true. April fools day was already over a week ago. You've really got to be kidding!

Criminal Minds is the best show and a show I really look forward to every week. The chemistry of the team, the entire team, is great to see and the show will definitely not be the same without one of the team members.

The actors all give their best and have convinced millions of viewers all over the world to watch Criminal Minds. Without one of them the show will lose a lot of viewers, including me.

Do not let any of the actors go, especially not Thomas Gibson, as they are all the reason Criminal Minds is the greatest show on television!

Please reconsider and do not fire any of the actors! If you do, I will not be watching Criminal Minds anymore.

Lexie

Maxine Carter, NY said...

Dear Nina Tassler,

We fans now the other fans. We see what makes a show and what breaks it. Matthew Gray Gubler's and Thomas Gibson's characters are the ones that the fans most discuss.

The current fired writers have caused such a thing with the fans that an intire convention was called off... What do you think will happen when one of the leading characters will be leaving the show. I'm sure it won't do any good! please look ahead and make wise decisions that will save the show instead of ruining it! That will in the end bring money into your pocket as well! And that is what this is all about isn't it?

A very worried fan,
Maxine!

Flavienne said...

I dropped in at the beginning of season 3. I had never come accross such a show that was so different. I bought all first 2 seasons on DVD! It gave me an impulse to start thinking along with each and every episode, it educated me so much... I stopped watching every other show I was watching because I just didn't need to watch anything else anymore!

I'll stop watching when any actor gets cut, especially Mr. Gibson. He is one of the leading actors that holds this group of characters together in the show.

I really hope to see a familiar Criminal Minds after the summer! I am already in doubt after loosing these amazing 5 writers.

Regards,
Flavie

Sonja said...

Dear Ms. Tassler,

From a fan from the other side of the world I connot afford to make a call to your office so I hope this will reach it in order to make up for it!

The show doesn't get a lot of media attention here but it has a very large amount of viewers. By that I can assume it is just because it is a great show. I can also say that the news about all these cuts has arrived in my country as a shock!

We also love Criminal Minds here as it is! Please do not fire any actors! Thomas Gibson character is my favorite one. And even though we've just started season 4 here I am in doubt if I'll be watching next year if he isn't there to portray the wonderful Aaron Hotchner!! Especially after my fave writers have already left the show, willingly or not!

Sonja van Z., Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Sophie Perkins said...

Mrs Tassler,

A few thoughts I had on the matter….I know this economic downturn has its effects in each and every field. What I can’t understand is the actions you’re taking to counter those effects. What you get taught in Management class is that in times of crisis you rely on your strong points and key assets to pull you through. In my opinion Criminal Minds is such an asset for your network. If this were my own company/network I’d try to cut losses elsewhere. This is a show that works fine and probably sustains a few other shows with its revenu and ratings, so why endanger that? Losing five writers is a very risky move to make in an uncertain environment. But of what I read here, firing an actor would be a certain way to end this show’s successful run. Maybe you should proceed with more caution and listen to the people that make the success of this show. Losing viewers and fans is never a clever idea. If I were you I’d think twice about it.

Regards,
Sophie Perkins

Julie said...

I am so outraged and disspointed about what you intend to do to this show…Is this how CBS understands to repay the actors and crew that made this show a huge success? Is this the thanks for the loads of money they have earned you? Is this the thank you and consideration you show to the viewers that give you huge ratings? It’s alright when things are bright and sunny, but when we hit a small rock all of a sudden we start to stick our head in the sand? I won’t stand for that. If this is how CBS treats people, I won’t be a part of it. I won’t watch anymore. And not just Criminal Minds, but all your shows. This is not acceptable. DON’T DO THIS. Cut your costs elsewhere. FIND another way. Or else you’ll have a lot more to lose than this outraged fan.

Julie

Sally said...

This news that a cast member might be leaving Criminal Minds has been extremely hard to chew for me. I just want to say that I couldn’t see any of the actors leave. I wish you’d think about that, because I’m not sure I could watch it again if not…

Sally

Francis said...

Nina Tassler and everyone else in CBS please, lets think about this.
You have a successful show, with great ratings and a very faithful following. And then in one week you fire 5 writers. Now an actor or more can be going too. In times like the one that we are in, with new shows not even lasting entire seasons, why would ever consider messing around with Criminal Minds? What is your reasoning? How do you think this is going to end up? Can you tell me? A fan of this show for the last four years? Tell me please, I’d certainly appreciate some answers? However, there’s nothing you can say that will make me change my mind about this: I’m a fan of Criminal Minds the way it is. I will not tolerate any more changes.

Undo what you did before you lose all your followers.

Francis, Detroit, MI

Jen said...

OMG, this is awful :(. Please don’t tell me you’re seriously considering to sack one of the actors. Who in you opinon is expandable? Thomas Gibson? Matthew Gray Gubler? Paget Brewster? Shemar Moore? A.J. Cook? Kirsten Vangsness? Joe Mantegna? Have you even seen these guys at work? Have you watched this show and see the great job they do every week? Do you realize that this show would be nothing without any of them? Do you understand how important they all are to the unity of this show? Which character is too much? Which one isn’t completely and wonderfully unique and addresses a specific section of your demographic? Which one doesn’t appeal to at least one category of viewers? Which one doesn’t have his/her devoted fans? Which one doesn’t bring you people to watch this show every week? I tell you the answer to all these questions…NONE. They are all unique, they are all wonderful and this show needs them. You managed to create a very well put together show. Everything is very well thought through. Nothing is out of place or ever too much. So how is it that you still think of cutting some things out? You lost me there. And if things go that way you’ll lose me for good, cause I’m not coming back for season 5.

Jen

Anonymous said...

You cannot lose ANYONE on the team. That would be cruel and unusual punishment for the fans, which, if you remember, is outlawed by the Constitution.

Seriously, who would you cut without ruining the integrity of the show? If CBS really wants to screw themselves over, the easiest way would be to get rid of CM. That would be easily accomplished by getting rid of anyone on the show.

Gina said...

Without these wonderful actors and writers the show would be an empty shell.

Anabelle said...

It is completely ludicrous that you folks over there at CBS sacked 5 AWESOME writers. What? Do you think monkey's can write an episode? You guys don't understand the importance of having writers for a TV show that is loved by millions of fans. I don't think you do! Re-evaluate everything!!! Your actions don't make sense!

Gail said...

To Nina Tassler,

Wow all your recent actions are being questioned as they should be. In sports there is this saying 'you don't change a winning team'. Why would you want to change the Criminal Minds team?

Gail
NJ

Katy said...

It is the ACTORS who make the show what it is. EACH AND EVERY one of them. By taking away any actor, you are taking away from the heart of the show!!!

Don't make a stupid mistake.
Katy.
(Herts, England)

Anonymous said...

Please tell me the rest of the writers and the cast are safe. CM is by far the most intelligently written drama on TV at the moment, with a very talented cast who gel together in the most amazing way.

Wendy said...

To CBS,

I don't like what you have done to my show, some of the best writers are out. I don't like what you are about to do to one of the actors.
I came back watching Criminal minds after Mandy Patinkin left even if he was the reason why I started watching Criminal Minds. Why you may ask? Because Mandy is Mandy and as a fan I know how he can be. This time it isn't the same, we the fans know that the actors don't want to leave. How do we know that? Well, we chat we them, they post on the blog, we read interviews. We know they love working on Criminal Minds. We love them as well and want them all back next season.

If you value my viewership than you will makes sure the actors are all back next season or I won't be.

Thanks for reading and considering our comments.

Wendy
Milwaukee

Anonymous said...

please do not kill ANYONE off the show!

Anonymous said...

OMG .... I had not even gone that far... no please do not kill anyone off! Please do not get rid of any of the actor much less kill anyone off! Please rethink the damage you have done and could do in the future.
A Norris

David M. Stanley said...

Ms Tassler,

I am sure you know what a test screening is. Look at all those posts and you can see that no one agrees with your decisions. You should listen because this is the Crimina Minds audience talking to you and telling you that you are making mistakes.

I hope you will listen.

David M. Stanley
Los Angeles

LoraLee said...

To Ms. Tassler,

I have watched Criminal Minds since the first episode. You had a winning team of writers and I have to say I'm horrified that you would just dump them like so much garbage.

This is not a program that needs "new blood" to keep it interesting, replacing known winners with unknowns for no good reason will not be a winner with this fan base.

In fact I have to say that Andrew Wilder is the first writer that has EVER caught my interest enough to care who wrote an episode of anything. Because of his writing I have started paying attention to the writers on all my shows.

I am begging you no more staff changes - on any level - simply to cut costs. I can garantee you that taking a winning team and tearing it apart will not win you ratings.

And isn't that what you want and need?

And cutting actors? That would be a HUGE mistake. You have a wonderful team who work well together, tearing apart that dynamic will damage your show.

Also cuts, for the sake of cuts, is damaging the reputation of your entire network. In this economy people want quality entertainment to take their minds of their troubles, not mindless drivel.

Especially in the era of cable and satellite television, you risk a lot, by making people stop to think if maybe a couple books from the library wouldn't be a better investment than paying for television programming that's just not as good as it used to be.

I will be following the writers you have dumped to their next projects, and the shows that pick them up will be very fortunate to have them.

You should also remember that your advertisers are not likely to be pleased if the consumers like myself stop watching because qualtiy is cut. Fewer viewers equals fewer sales equals fewer advertisors equals less income for CBS.

Sincerely,

Lora L. Martin,
Upstate New York

Dez said...

I've just tried to watch an episode trying to imagine it without one of the characters... it doesn't work!
Please don't get the idea that this is going to all blow over and go away. Just leave our show alone and fully intact please or I'll find another.

Eric Preston, 29, CA said...

To Nina Tassler from CBS

500 people telling you have made a mistake must be tough. But maybe that what it takes for you to understand how big a mistake you have made. You treated a wonderful show with no respect. You send 5 writers away and now you are threatening an actor? What is the problem here, is Criminal Minds a too quiet, low maintenance, successful show for you? Are the ratings too high? The cast and crew are too happy? The fans love it too much? Are things going to well, you felt the need to destroy? Good job. Now tell me, do you prefer me watching Lost or American Idol instead of this show? Because that can be arranged.

Marilyn Cooper, Florida said...

Miss Nina,

I became a fan of Criminal Minds during that hard time that it went through thanks to Mr. Patinkin’s actions. I heard about how worried everyone was, how hard it was going to be, but by the end of the season premiere, I realized that everything was going to be okay, that the wonderful writing team cold fix the mess and the actors could pull together to keep the balance. And they did, and I’m still here. And it would be awful if by the next season premiere, the show I learned to love, wasn’t there anymore. And why? Because of you. Because you underestimate a show that gives 14 million viewers a week and 10 million during reruns. Because you think that your actions and complete disrespect won’t affect who makes this show and the final product won’t lose quality.
If we lose more writers or, and I can’t even believe this is a possibility, an actor, you will have single-handed ruined a show that didn’t need any changes. Because we love it just the way it is.

Please, undo what you did. We know what we like, you have that, don’t take it away from us and expect us to stick around.

Lynn said...

To Nina,

Since the beginning when this show started you never gave the recognition it FULLY deserved. Yet 4 seasons later this show is still alive and thriving THANKS TO BOTH The cast,writers, crew, etc. etc. ONLY to find out that you just booted 5 writers including the great Andrew Wilder. Holy MOLY! THAT WAS A HUGE MISTAKE! You know what this proves? That you STILL don't give the show the attention it deserves and you still treat the show like crap. You rarely promote it, you don't let the actors promote the show either.What is going on? You treat CSI and NCIS like royalty! BUT I guess Criminal Minds is the mere peasant trying to do things right and the network's approval. I'm sure the cast NOW knows how Cinderella felt!! You treat Criminal Minds like it's your step-child. That is just very sad. And you know what else I find AMUSING?? You have a comedy night that leads to CM and CSI: NY. Wow...PERFECT SCHEDULING! Why Wednesday?? Why couldn't you do the comedy block on ANOTHER night, like Saturday?? That day is a total wasteland! Wouldn't it have been logical to air a CRIME drama at 8:00 that was suitable to lead into CM and WOW WOULD THE RATINGS BE HIGHER! DON'T get RID OF ANYONE! BRING BACK THE WRITERS AND EACH CAST MEMBER! They are trash that you can JUST THROW OUT! They are human beings with feelings, and I'm sure they are anxious to see what is going to happen. You are playing Russian Roulette Ms.Nina Tassler and if you make one fatal judgment, kiss the "America's Most Watched Network" goodbye and watch it sink to NBC levels.

Lynn, a loyal fan, from believe it or not, Puerto Rico!

Lynn said...

I made an error! This is what happens when I am mad, "They are NOT! trash that you can JUST THROW OUT!"

Anne Smith said...

Nina Tassler,

You know what you have to do to have a successful show like Criminal Minds? Nothing. That’s all that you had to do. And that’s all that you did for the past 4 years. So now, why the sudden change and this absurd need to tear apart something that works perfectly, without you lifting a finger? With how scared this network was with Patinkin’s abandonment, you certainly don’t think things through, do you?
I will not watch a show without Aaron Hotchner.
I will not watch a show without Dr. Spencer Reid.
I will not watch a show without Derek Morgan.
I will not watch a show without JJ.
I will not watch a show without Emily Prentiss.
I will not watch a show without David Rossi.
I will not watch a show without Penelope Garcia.
I will not watch a show so broken apart.
And I will no longer watch any other show in your station either (that’s 3 in total). If that’s the way you treat you shows/show runners/audience, maybe it’s time for us to part ways.

Reconsider, please.

Anne Smith, PA

Anonymous said...

This show is the best crime show I have ever seen. I have watched every episode at least 3 times and im still not tired of it. Why 5 writers? That seems like a lot to me. I am not so concerned about the writers as I am with the actors though. I only watch the show for the wonderful cast and their on screen interactions with each other. Imagine how the other actors are going to feel when they lose one of their own. They are so close to each other and might effect their acting.

If ANY cast member is fired I WILL NOT watch this show again. I watch only a few shows and don't want to lose this one because who ever is in charge is worried about money. Cut down your paycheck if your low on money. What is it you really do anyway? The actors deserve the work and money more then you do. At least ask the actors if they would all be willing to cut back on their pay until the money problem is solved. Don't turn CBS into NBC.

MKT said...

I got hooked on Criminal Minds during its first season for two reasons: it required me to think since the endings weren't always obvious and the character of Hotchner offered so many levels. Now you've uprooted FIVE writers, two of whom have been w/ the show since day 1. What next? That wonderful character Hotch? Another character? I will certainly stop viewing the instant Hotch is no longer there, and will have serious doubts if any of the other cast is let go. Please show the fans some respect and leave ALL of our cast alone.

Aly D. said...

this is one of the few shows out there that hasn't been tainted by Bad actors and corny plots. It's one show that always stays true to itself. The actors aren't in tabloids every week. The episodes are never written to just get ratings. They're written to tall a good story. This is one of the last shows that still has integrity. Don't ruin a great thing by getting rid of cast members. There is simply not a better cast out there

Ken said...

When the going gets tough, the tough get going. Get rid of an actor on top of the writers and this tough guy will walk right on to another show on another station. Have the decency to stand by your wonderful actors during these times, they are the people that keep you in business.

Katie said...

Dear Ms. Tassler,

I urge you to use whatever influence you may have to keep what is left of our Criminal Minds cast, writing staff, and crew intact. The loss of five very fine writers is bad enough, but losing cast members will irreparably harm the show and it will become a completely different show, one in which I probably will not continue to watch.

Please keep our show as it is.

Katie

Leia said...

I hadn't been online for a few days, and when I finally came here and read the latest news, I almost fell off my chair. Five writers have been let go and and my favorite character might be following? I don't understand you anymore. Is it your intention to ruin a show that has done so much for CBS without getting anything back in return?

I'm a 24 year old student from Germany so I probably don't appear in any of your demographics, but I bought the DVD sets from the US (and the German versions as well), so you still received money I spent on this wonderful series.

Please, don't ruin it, don't change anything else and while you're reconsidering your actions, why don't you think about getting those wonderful writers back as well? How could you let them go, especially Andrew Wilder who helped shape this show?

Regards,
Leia

SMG said...

You have no idea how terrifying is to hear that your favorite show is being torn apart so fast and so heartlessly like that. We fans love the show the way it is. So much that in the end of last season, all we wanted was for every single one of the characters to be okay and back. They were and we stayed. But if you take away the lead character (or any other), how do you expect that to happen?
Please, reconsider your decisions. And if I may, bring back all the writers, or at least some of them. They made this show an intelligent, accurate success for you, the least you can do now is appreciate that.

Sabrina M.G. from Illinois

Anonymous said...

Dear Ms. Tassler,

Please leave the cast intact. I can understand that it is difficult to work with a small budget due to the economic state that we are in right now. But this show is driven by the actors who, together, make the stories so much beter.

Portia said...

Nina,

What is CBS thinking?! Firing one of the best writers in the business and now rumors are flying about losing a CM cast member? That is just ludicrous. If CBS does this, you can count me out.

Portia, VA

Yvette said...

Ms. Tassler,

Please use your influence to stop this crazy destruction to Criminal Minds. It has always performed well for you... the loss of writers will hit it hard. The loss of any actors, especially your lead (TG) will be the final nail in the coffin and fans will go elsewhere. At least, this one will.

Mike said...

Getting rid of any of the actors on CM is just plain dumb. Get rid of my fav Hotch and I'm not sticking around to see the fallout. Come on CBS, get with it.

Christine said...

Ms Tassler,

I love Criminal Minds and was totally shocked when I found out that five writers had been fired and am, to borrow a British term, gobsmacked to hear that CBS is now contemplating writing out one of the great CM cast members. Is this any way to preserve a top 20 show; a show that consistently brings in viewers and ad revenue for CBS, even during summer reruns? I don’t think so.

Please don’t let this happen to Criminal Minds. I think the fall-out will be greater than anyone realizes.

Christine from Maryland

Jenn said...

We would just like to add our support for a complete boycott of CM if any of actors are not back for Season 5. Fans will only take so much, and the loss of the writers was the last straw.

Jenn & Mark, CT

Marilyn said...

Nina Tassler,

Why do you have it in for CM? I'm afraid that I don't understand your decision to fire 5 writers from such a great program that brings in viewers from all over the world. Now you seem to be threatening to make matters worse by letting go an actor too, possibly your lead? I'm afraid that should that happen, you will have lost my family's support for CM and your network. Please reconsider; this many fans cannot all be wrong, nor ignored.

Marilyn
NC

Irene said...

Don't you dare consider consider taking an actor from our beloved CM, especially Thomas Gibson, who has made Hotch the heart of the show. In fact, leave the entire cast be, they all offer something invaluable to the fans! CM would no longer be the same without them and I would stop watching. Don't turn me into a channel flicker next season.

Vail THE Biggest CM fan! said...

To CBS/ Ed Bernero,

I'm a long time fan of the show. Love CM , watch it every week, I even watch the reruns on CBS and A&E. My fav characters are Hotch, Reid and Prentiss. I like the others too but those are the one that makes me come back every week. If any of them are no back for season 5 well I probably will not. I mean those are essential characters that without them there is no CM.

Hope you will not cut any of them.

Thanks,

Vail
Cleveland, Ohio

Tina said...

This is just WRONG. Are you trying to get rid of loyal CBS viewers? If so, you are doing a great job. If not, then you need to rethink the lunacy of letting five wonderful writers go and contemplating letting one of the cast members go. SAVE CRIMINAL MINDS! Don’t fire Thomas or Joe or Shemar or Paget or Kirsten or AJ!

Tina from Indianpolis

Will said...

Many have said it better here, the econnomy, why they love CM and why you shouldn't make more cuts. I'll just add my voice and don't touch the cast.

Thanks,

William P. Harvey.
Omaha

Jodi said...

Dear Ms. Tassler,

I hope that you remember who the important people are... the fans! And the fans are asking that you ensure that ALL of our actors return safe & sound for next season... NO exceptions. These people have become like family and the loss of just one will mean the loss of this fan. And I don't say this lightly after 3+ years of faithful viewing. Thank you.

P. Meloni said...

To Ed Bernero/Nina Tassler,

Ed you keep saying that CM is a big family then I hope you will stand up and fight to keep your cast together! Do like Hotch did in 'In name and Blodd', tell Ms. Tassler why each of the actors are necessary to the team.

I am sure all CM fans are counting on you.

Thanks,

Patricia Meloni
Raleigh, NC

Skye said...

I typically love CBS shows, but there are a few that I think could be changed. Some are just uninteresting & some have just been played out & gone well past their prime. Criminal Minds is not one of these shows. I look forward to Criminal Minds every week & would be sad if anything were to change about the show. I'm already disheartened that some of my favorite writers will not be writing for the show anymore. I am hoping that no further changes will be made...& if there's any way to reverse the decision to let those wonderful writers go it would be much appreciated. Please don't mess with such a unique & wonderful show!

Margaret said...

Nina,

How is firing 5 extremely talented writers, including the show’s best writer (Andrew Wilder) and contemplating firing a solid cast member a good business decision?

Margaret, Dumfries, VA

Jaclyn M. said...

Dear Nina,

I can appreciate having to make certain decisions regarding cutbacks in this economy. I'm doing it, myself. Most of my sacrifices are little luxuries that I can afford to give up to maintain a comfortable but modest lifestyle. Criminal Minds is a major shining star in the CBS lineup. To me it would be foolish to tamper with such a solid performer. Why not focus on trimming the "excess" from certain shows, rather than tamper with something that's sure to outlast this rough patch just the way it is?

Emily Parker said...

Ok, I'm trying to take deep breaths, but I'm still irate. How can you do this to our show? Criminal Minds isn't one of those boring, run-of-the-mill shows that loses my attention. CM provides great action and great characters and is a joy to watch week after week. But I will yank myself away if you go through with this ludicrous plan to fire one of your best actors. We really need them all, especially my personal favourite Mr. Gibson. Please look at these posts and reconsider.

E.Parker, AZ

Madison said...

Ms Tassler,

My message for you will be short and to the point. If any of the actors are let go after episode 26then I will consider that last episode as CM serie finale.

Madison from Tulsa.

Dierdre said...

Ms. Tassler:

I certainly hope that you read all these comments. They are all genuine, heart-felt comments from loyal Criminal Minds viewers. They all are begging CBS not to fire ANY of the cast members and bemoaning the decision to fire five of the best writers’ in the business. Please keep these comments in mind when making a decision about Criminal Minds. We love our show and want to keep it intact.

Dierdre, DeKaulb, IL

Keith said...

Here's a suggestion: if you really need the $ so badly (which we don't believe for a minute given your salaries), then why not cut on the big name guest stars? Surely the cast that work week in, week out deserve first priority?!

Jennie said...

The day you write out Hotch or any of the main cast members, is the day you lose me as a viewer. Keith has a great idea – stop the big name guest starts. Did we really need Cybill Shepherd for her 4-line role in Cold Comfort?

Jennie, Annandale, VA

Heather in Chicago said...

Ms. Tassler,

There are so many more stories to tell & UnSubs to be caught by THIS TEAM! Every team member brings something different to the table. There are no "weakest links." And the amazing stories that unfold week after week can only be told by the amazing writers for this show. Criminal Minds has successfully kept me glued to my seat for 4 years. Yes there have been changes to the cast throughout the years, but right now the team dynamic is PERFECT. Please don't change a thing!

Rebecca said...

Dear Ms. Tassler/Mr. Bernero,

There is a great deal of strife going on right now. I have used my favorite show, Criminal Minds, to escape for just an hour each week. Even amidst the sad/creepy storylines, the actors manage to make me happy. The loss of any one of them would be catastrophic, especially your cores of Hotchner and Reid, although i love them all. You may try to take emotions out of your decisions, but perhaps this is one occasion that you shouldn't. Give the fans what they want: TG, MGG, JM, PB, SM, AJC, KV. ALL of them.

Hannah said...

wow lots of people are speaking their minds to you Ms. Tassler. I hope you are reading all this.

See we do love our show. We are not call CM fanatics for nothing. We know all that is to be known about it, who the writers are, what episodes they wrote, I am sure many writers on other shows would wish the fans knew them and care as we do.

We also know about the cast and care about them. We love when Kirsten blog with us, we have hundred of fans who come to chat with the actors and writers after an episodes.

See we care, that is why so many have posted already asking you why you fired writers and want to fire an actor. We don,t want any changes because CM is good as it is.

Please no more changes, we don't want them and will not stand for any of it.

Hannah Martin
Toronto, Canada

Marty said...

I think Criminal Minds is one of the most underrated shows on TV today. Just in the past few weeks I've been fortunate to find a following that feels the same way I do. I never really paid much attention to how it was doing in the ratings and all that. All I knew was that it was a show I enjoyed immensely. I caught wind that there may be some impending changes coming to the show. I am writing you today to say that I wish with all my heart this does not happen. You have a great show here. Please realize what you have before it's too late!

Vic the Man! said...

Many here are more articulate then I am so i will just say what should be by now obvious to you, we want CM back next season as it is, nothing less will satisfy us and satisfied customers should be your highest priority Ms. Tassler.

Thanks,

Vic
NY

Karen said...

Save our show!
Save our actors! All of them!
Criminal Minds rocks!

but it is only as good as its cast, writers and crew. You've already cost us writers, leave the others alone.

I will continue this virtual picket line as long as it takes and I don't think that I'm alone... Fire just one actor and find yourself a new viewer.

Misty said...

Criminal Minds > CSI.

You do the math!

Meaghan in Santa Barbara said...

Criminal Minds has been my favorite show since its very first episode. I tuned in to watch Mandy Patinkin, but I stayed with the show even after he left because of the wonderful stories, and the great cast. The show is intelligent. It makes you think. The good guys don’t always win.

Now the powers that be have fired some of its original writers, the people who wrote those wonderful stories, and at least one of our great cast members job is in jeopardy. Please don’t let this happen.

Meaghan

HardKOrr said...

Dear Ms. Tassler,

Rarely does a show come on the air that I love 100%...usually it might be an actor or two, maybe it's the writing, or the subject matter. Criminal Minds hits every mark for me. I have never joined a message board before or been a Fanatic of anything. This is the exception.

This is the only show I can remember where I actually count the days until the next new episode. It's the only show I own every dvd set of and watch repeatedly over and over. I'm not what I would call an obsessive person. Again, Criminal Minds is the exception!

Please do not change another thing about this show that, in my opinion, is perfect. We do not want to lose a single actor or actress. Thomas, Paget, AJ, Matthew, Kirsten, Joe, and Shemar all bring something important to the team. This is the best line-up CM has ever had. We've already lost 5 important writers - including the best in Andrew Wilder - that enough damage.

Please do not make any further changes.

Thank you,
Kris
Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Diane and Mom said...

I am depressed and disheartened by the recent turn of events on one of my favorite shows. I cannot comprehend the actions made by those at CBS. I understand because of the economy, we are in dire straits, but I am positive that there MUST be other means of saving money. You can save yourselves by not producing news hows and making movies. This is program that I can't wait to come home and watch! I even shut off my phone! And you know what else is awesome? My mother even loves the show to the point that we even engaged in discussions after the episode, and SHE too is also perplexed by the actions of the hire ups. My mother and I, want the writers(including the ones that were *ahem* "let go") and cast and the other veterans that have been with the show since the getgo IN ONE PIECE FOR NEXT SEASON!

Thank YOU!

Diane and Mom- Queens

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