Wednesday, April 13, 2011

CRIMINAL MINDS SPOILER THREAD FOR "THE STRANGER"


Criminal Minds spoiler thread for "The Stranger" starring Joe Mantegna, Thomas Gibson, Shemar Moore, Matthew Gray Gubler, Kirsten Vangsness and Rachel Nichol.

**Beware! There will be spoilers in the comments :)

398 comments:

«Oldest   ‹Older   201 – 398 of 398
Nanci said...

sf8, if you're not happy then maybe you should create the happy forum. I'll leave when I'm ready...

Anonymous said...

And then the thread will turn into the "I can't stand Ashley Seaver" new official thread from that moment on and there will be no more talking about the episode. Who wants to bet it starts with the first 10 comments after the episode?

And "the Seaver show"? Really? Really?

Mary from UK said...

I have difficulty understanding people cutting the show because of a short tabloid article. I shall be watching - it is still an ensemble show and I unashamedly watch it for the boys. However much I deplore some areas where CBS have taken it, it is still worth watching for MGG, TG, SM and JM. And indeed, the last few episodes have been improving so I'm looking forward to the last 4 of this season, and to season 7 as I am sure it will be renewed. I wont get to see The Stranger till the weekend - here in the UK we have to trawl the net to find it on line - but I hope the focus of this thread is actually on the episode tomorrow.

Sally said...

"Bill Collinson said...

Criminal Minds Fan can you step in. It is getting quite unpleasant here"

Honestly, the way things have been around here lately, I really think there's no need to open the thread for comments one day before the episode airs.
Because then you have 200 comments with nothing to do with the episode.
And people actually going at each other like this.

A. said...

I think the threads should be opened prior to the start of the show, I'm thinking on east coast time (EST) as that seems to be the time that usually dictates schedules network wise. Opening it up prior to that nowadays is just a bad idea, I think.

gubegirl said...

As upsetting as the TV Guide interview was, I cannot keep myself from watching CM tonite.

Part of me is hanging on, thinking that TPTB will see the light (they have obviously read/heard our feedback and are trying to make adjustments. There is only so much they can do this late in the season with the epis already shot and now being aired. They must be pretty close to being done if not finished shooting already. I do wish RN would not be going on the way she is: I feel she would do better to keep a low profile and just work hard at her acting if she wanted to turn things around, not speak out with inane statements that alienate so many even further. JMHO.

Then the second issue I have: why should we punish our favorite actors - TG, JM, SM, MGG and KV who have worked long & hard for yrs. and are thoroughly enjoyable - by not watching? I feel like that would be insulting to them. Do they deserve to be ignored?

I think not. So I am watching. I will arm myself with some Patrone (if there is any left after our last Girls' Nite - there's always wine in the house - come on by Pat!), keep the blankie ready to cover my eyes if necessary, the remote, to FF if nec (prob'ly won't - I am too paranoid I might miss something!)

I may wince, squirm and even have an outburst worse than "hecky-darn" or "poopy damn" at certain times, but I will be watching alone, so I am entitled. My dogs can take it.

That's my plan. Passing on anymore PASS convo. Tired of it all. Will be glad to go back to talking about music. I find it far more uplifting.

That all said, I say, CM: BRING IT ON!

coadygirl said...

I'm just saddened by the complete negativity of most all of you about Criminal Minds and it's future. Personally, even though I'm certainly NOT happy with the cast changes and lack of well written storylines, I'm not turning off my tv in protest. I said it in the beginning and my opinion hasnt changed; I'm on the fence regarding Seaver. To date she's more of an irritant than a future superstar on the BAU. If someone wrote her as saving the lives of someone on the team, taking a hit meant for someone else, or at least cracking under the pressure of what's expected of her, she'd get more respect from me. That being said, I still get excited seeing the shows. I enjoy the team (maybe Reid and Hotch a little more:)and the writing is improving. I want to discuss the episodes and can we tone down the vitriole? I'm not giving up on the show.

Dori said...

gubegirl and coadygirl, I understand what you guys are saying, but I just can't watch what I feel will be on tonight. I've watched many other things that have angered me, but if this episode is even half of what was described in the article, it would be best for me not to watch it. I will come here to see what people say the episode is like, and, hopefully, if it is not what I am thiniking, I will download it on iTunes. But to watch it live, I just can't, not after reading that article.

I love the guys and Garcia to death, but I think watching this episode will push the already stretched threshold that I have set for myself. Speaking just for me, I don't think it would be productive for me to sit and watch an episode that I am not going to enjoy based on what was said in the article. I really, truly, hope that I am wrong and will gladly download it to view later if I am wrong, but to run the risk of seeing this live, I just can't.

Sorry coadygirl and gubegirl :(

Criminal Minds Fan said...

STOP


STOP


IF YOU WANT TO COMMENT ON THIS BLOG YOU WILL DO SO WITH RESPECT FOR EACH OTHER AND FOR THE SHOW.

NO EXCEPTIONS.

LaShawna said...

I'll still be watching this episode, though it will be with some trepidation for the Ashley scenes. As I've said before, I have a visceral reaction of annoyance when the character is onscreen. And in my comments, I always talk about the episode, but I also address the characters and their interaction. If I REALLY don't like Ashley's scenes I will comment on it.

Though I must point a couple things. The article said Ashley was interviewing the roommate of a victim, not the unsub himself. I agree that is WAY too soon. I also think her "kick ass" contribution will be to act as bait to draw out the unsub.

I still have high hopes for most of this episode since the writers are very good and the case sounds very interesting. I just hope Ashley doesn't dominate this episode.

Kimmy said...

I myself can't wait to see this new girl in action.
Looks like a very promising episode with a very creepy unsub

Anonymous said...

Um, I don't know about the bait trap--according to the clip I saw, the murdered girls were brunette and Seaver is a blonde. Unless they put a brown wig on her, I doubt that's what she's going to do in the episode.

LOL!! said...

I am sooooo looking forward to this episode!! I'm always happy when we have new episodes, and I for one am happy we will see more of our newest cast member.

Laura said...

Finally, finally good news for the fans.
After an entire season of bad news and bad decisions.

And I'm sorry to see you go Bernero, but you seem desperate to leave CM, so good luck.

Nanci said...

That would be the best news of the season! As far as EB is concerned, I don't really have an opinion but wish him well whatever he does.

Yeah!!!! My CM days may not be numbered after-all.

Anonymous said...

Uk viewer, TG and SM do not want to leave and I think that CBS knows they can't commit another error, so now is the time to get into some serious contract talks with them. If they are in talks with AJ and Paget, I think that is a good sign for TG and SM.

If both AJ and Paget come back, that will simply be one too many cast mates to keep RN, but that is only my guess. I don't know what they are planning. I do hope that they are bringing some of the older writers back, but for now, I will be happy with confirmation that AJ, Paget, TG and SM are all confirmed to be back on the show.

Anonymous said...

AT last some good news--AJ Cook is negotiating her return to Criminal Minds! And Paget may come back, too.

LaShawna said...

Well, I like some Ed Bernero episodes, but not others. I don't feel he is the strongest writer the show ever had, but that is my personal opinion. I do wish the show would higher their strongest writers back to the show as a true way to creatively refresh this show.

I think Paget's return all hinges on whether or not her pilot gets picked up, but part of me feels like she won't return ever. But I would still love to have her back.

If TG and SM left voluntarily, my feeling is that the angry viewers will blame CBS for not giving them what they want in their contracts. This is a network that will pay millions of dollars to a woman-beating, coke nut, but not pony up the necessary recompense for them. I also feel that many viewers would stop watching the show if both TG and SM leaves, even if it is voluntarily. There is only so much change most shows can take before many fans just walk away.

As for RN, I think her status for next season not only depends on AJ's decision, but fan reaction, particularly after this episode. It sounds like the writers wrote Ashley in this episode to try and appeal to the fans who don't like her and try and entice us to like her. They might feel a bit desperate now, because Ashley's been on eight episodes, and she still isn't well received across the board. There are definitely those who like her, but there are many, many of those who don't like her, and voice their angry feelings online week after week. A show can only keep a character that provokes negative fan reaction for so long, before somebody does something. If RN was let go in favor of AJ's return it would be just like what CSI: Miami did last year when they fired Eddie Cibrian when Adam Rodriguez returned.

Madeline said...

Oh My GOD!!!!! Please let this be, God, please let this be!!!!!

Anonymous said...

CBS you want positive fan reaction? This is the way to do it! Good on ya!!! Yeah!!!

Secretive said...

My apologies if my above post is in the wrong place. This is only my third visit to this site and I have never posted before.

Anonymous said...

I suppose Bernero could still write for the show... just because his overall involvement goes down, doesn't mean he loses his interest altogether. Hope he does at any rate. His stories always had a good shape to 'em, a definite feeling across the different strands.

UK viewer

Anonymous said...

If Cook returns, I don't think RN will be back next season. The can of worms that it would open up, despite whether this episode has a positive effect on her character or not are just to minimal in my estimation to warrant carrying that character over to season 7. Not only will there be the "they look alike" comments, but Seaver will distinctly mark the absence of Prentiss should Paget not want to return. Now, Seaver is being associated with JJ's departure. This is all just my opinion though. Let's see how it all works out.

Anonymous said...

Uk viewer, I think that could be worked out with Ed, at least I think it could.

Ely said...

I am having a mini heart attack here.. Yahoo!!!!!!!!

Secretive said...

I wonder when we will hear all the news for certain? Hopefully not too long. That includes the contract negotiations for Thomas and Shemar. They have been going on for quite some time.

I'm going to watch tonight and see what the writers come up with for Seaver and see if it's within the realms of probability.

Laura said...

Let me understand this.
CBS is finally admitting how WRONG they were last season letting AJ and Paget go but they are still playing hardball with Shemar and Gibson for next season?
Really, CBS?
Fix this show (by putting back the way it was) and step away from it slowly and forever.

Hannah said...

Love it!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes CBS, you are moving in the right direction, but let's get the ball rolling with TG and SM. We got to get the whole kit and kaboodle restored.

Anonymous said...

Hope you're right about Bernero, Anon. But I guess a writer has to want to stay. We can't tie him up and poke him with sharp objects to change his mind, not without getting behaviourally analysed ourselves...

But here's to you Ed, you made a fine fine thing!

UK viewer

Nanci said...

From what twitter is saying, TG and SM started negotiations on their contracts when PB and AJC did - a long time ago. And still....nothing. I hope this is not a bad sign.

Anonymous said...

Laura said...

"Let me understand this.
CBS is finally admitting how WRONG they were last season letting AJ and Paget go but they are still playing hardball with Shemar and Gibson for next season?
Really, CBS?
Fix this show (by putting back the way it was) and step away from it slowly and forever."

Yes, emphasis on the fixing and stepping away forever.

sf81387 said...

Maybe they know that one or both of the men aren't returning so they're scrambling to fill the holes.

Carlos said...

I don't get this what about Pagets new show. She can't be on 2 shows at once

Really hope RN remains i hate to an actress getting dropped like this

Emilia said...

May I propose something... let's expend the same energy, if not more, that has gone into the back and forth about the Seaver character, and channel that into something more pressing like TG and SM's contracts.

CBS, first let me thank you for acknowledging that AJ Cook did play a vital role on the show and that it was a mistake to let her go. It takes a lot to be able to admit a mistake, let alone correct it. I am sure I can say the same to you regarding Paget Brewster.

We are gravely concerned about Thomas Gibson and Shemar Moore. These men are critical to the continued strength and success of the show. I don't know what terms are being talked over, but please consider all of the work and dedication that both of these men have provided to the show and to your network over the years. This surely must amount to something and I hope that they are fairly compensated for the amount of success they have helped the network consistenty gain through their hard work and dedication.

Thank you.

Marisa said...

Yes, AJ come back!!

You are still my favorite girl!

I can't wait until I get to watch this show and again love every single part of it.

And I guess, if the girls are coming back, this whole Seaver debacle is moot point now, right.


Bernero, don't leave, you are one of my favorite writers.

Oh, well, good luck in your future endeavors and thank you for making this show so amazing for so long.
Sorry about the spin-off. Doesn't mean we don't appreciate you and the other writers or CM itself, we were just happy with what we had and weren't asking for anything else, anything different.
Again, good luck and thanks.

Renee said...

If TG and/or SM left becasue of a breakdown in contracts, that would just be disastrous. For them not to know that would be taking clueless up a few notches. They have already witnessed what has happened by eliminating AJ and Paget off of the show and replacing them with RN, just who in the hell do they think they would be able to get to replace TG and/or SM. RN replacing AJ and Paget has not gone smoothly to say the least, a replacement for TG and/or SM, negative.

People are tired of these replacements. They need to restore, not cut, paste, and replace.

heyya said...

Oh my god! I am sooo happy! I could jump for joy! AJ and Paget returning would be a dream come true! I will support Paget if she decides to stick with her NBC comedy should it get picked up. But I would love if she returned to CM! Hotch, Reid, Morgan, JJ, Emily, Garcia, and Rossi- this group of characters and cast are indispensible! I hope everything works out well and we have a wonderful season7 with the above. I don't even care about the new Seaver centric episode anymore! I'm just really happy!

Laura said...

TG has said over and over again that he wishes to come back.

Shemar is as always, very quiet about it, but I can't see why he wouldn't come back, especially seeing as Morgan has had a lot to do lately.

So to me, there's no such thing as voluntarily leave, if one or both don't come back, is because of CBS.
And the people there who won't appreciate this show or respect the fans. And probably because Nina Tassler wants to save some money to pay off the next big wife beater drunk psycho star out there.

Anonymous said...

I think it's time for the fans to call it truce, and get together to make sure CBS understands that they need to make deals with Shemar Moore and Thomas Gibson.
Make sure they understand we will not allow them to let go of those two, not even if they give us the girls back.

Jill, is there anything we can do right now?

zagi said...

sf81387 said...

"Maybe they know that one or both of the men aren't returning so they're scrambling to fill the holes."


Or maybe they don`t want one of the men return because they want to adjust the show to the spinoff - three females and three males.

Anonymous said...

The spin-off is DOA.

Meg said...

*Is giddy with delight* I've had a horrible crappy day but this news about A.J has cheered me up lovely. It's fantastic news!! I will be so happy to see her come back, the show has not been the same without JJ/AJ. I hope it all works out and AJ is back in the credits right at the start of S7. My husband is grinning like The Cheshire Cat over the news too, he has really missed JJ on the show. She's quite the favourite with him. :-)
Now all I need is for definitive news that we'll be seeing Hotch and Morgan next year too. I'd love to see Paget back too although I also wish her all the luck in the world with her pilot. I will be over the moon if S7 sees the old team of Reid, Hotch, Rossi, Morgan, Prentiss, JJ and Garcia back again.

Sales said...

Yes, I don't think they want to mirror this show on the spin-off of FAIL anymore.

You see, NINA TASSLER, you base your decisions on the winning formula, not the other way around.

Did you learn that? Were you happy with your decisions this past season?
Let's review:
a)Mess around with CM original
b)Invest on the spin off no one wanted
c)Charlie Sheen
Nope? There, you learned something.


PS: can we have season 7 opening with Morgan at a hospital, waking up from a one day coma induced dream (caused by Tim Curry's character) and that way we can erase this whole season? So there's no JJ leaving, Prentiss spy arc and Seaver all together? That would be perfection!

Carlos said...

hey wait a minute how can Paget come back if she has her new show?

LOL!! said...

WOW!!! 243 comments and the episode hasn't even aired yet!! This has got to be a record!! LOL!

Anonymous said...

Carlos, there is no word whether her pilot will be picked up or not until late May. She has to let CBS know by, I think, May 28th if she plans on returning to the show.

NBC hasn't announced what shows it will be picking up for the Fall yet.

gubegirl said...

Have been feeling puny and chilled all day, went to bed thinking I was coming down with a bug, get up and sit down at the computer with my cuppa tea and VOILA!

What a difference less than 24 hrs makes!

THEY ARE LISTENING, PEOPLE! They got the message and it's looking up! The line used to be "The Boys are Back" but now can start the refrain, "The Girl(s?) are Back!" Who knows, EB may not be Mr. Popularity with TG and SM with his putting all his efforts into the spin-off and do we know how much input he had in AJ's dismissal? Or the threat of Paget's that caused her to take them up on it? Now that he is leaving, and AJ and poss PB may be returning, TG and SM may be ready to sign their contracts. This must have been a HUGE learning experience for the entire group. Hopefully, with madman Sheen outta there, CBS is sitting up and taking notice and looking around for $ to properly compensate the reliable actors in their stable, huh? Maybe there's room for Andrew and Chris to come back? Do not know their relationship with EB, but if it was good with Erica, then, hey, maybe there's a poss.

One thing at a time, huh, gang?

The important thing is they are LISTENING! and doing something!
And I am going to stay in my jammies, and take it easy til 9 PM. Eagerly awaiting a new epi tho' I think I shall now pass on any alcohol and stick with tea, and you know what, I feel myself feeling better already.

And guys: I don't think anymore
b--ching needs to go on because, hey, they have our attention and I say we stop driving others crazy on this blog and go back to having fun! And,m BTW, turn up your music, chill and Think Positive! What's the song, "Have a little faith in your Heart?" Let's!

Optika said...

I am going to refrain from commenting on the episode outcome just yet since it hasnt aired but AJ COOK MIGHT BE COMING BACK! ITS OFFICIAL! I skipped around becuase this gives me hope that Thomas Gibson and Paget Brewster will also come back, and of course, there isnt enough room for everyone so someone will probab;y still go but here's hoping that the season 5 cast comes back stornger than ever and that Erica Messer brings the show to higher horizons! Thank god and fingers crossed for AJ!

Michael said...

I can definitely still see them keeping Nichols now that AJ will be back. AJ is playing a press liason and Nichols is playing a profiler. Also Gubler mentioned something about AJ might returning a month ago and then they also had Nichols as regular and the article yesterday also spells she is staying and even when Paget returns she could also still be there she was also there when Prentiss was on the show.

if they don't keep her CBS should really offer her a gig on a hit show of theirs and keep her there because it is not her fault that CBS messed up like that

jeannemarie said...

WOOT!! WOOT!! WOOT!! CBS Puleazze bring AJ and Paget back--please, please, please. You can even keep the new kid for a few lines a show. Just keep the family together!
On topic: tonight's episode looks creepy, I'm looking forward to it!

Mahële said...

While I'm delighted about the girl's potential return, I must say that I'm sad about Ed. Bernero leaving the show.
He created this show and the characters, and I loved all the episodes he wrote.
He really was one of my favorite writers.

And even if he worked on several projects at the same time, I think that he was still truly involved with Criminal Minds.

I wish him the best and I hope that everything will go well on the show without him.
Maybe he'll still find the time to write some scenarios for Criminal Minds (but I don't want to get my hopes up).

Anyway, I hope to see AJ back. I'm so glad to learn that she's in negotiation.
I also hope everything will go well for S. Moore and T. Gibson and that their contract will be renewed.

Optika said...

Seaver is a probationary agent, not a profiler. It has never been confirmed by anyone on the show that she is actually a profiler, just a trainee. Not like I like her but RN should be shifted to the spinoff because the spinoff could use her. DOnt want Seaver on the oringinal CM though.
Praying that both AJ and Paget come back and Thomas and Shemar!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Best of luck to RN on future endeavors though. She does good in the movies, but not as Clarice Starling junior.

Michael said...

i think Nichols is staying on the show that article yesterday sounded like she is permanent. And the plan for AJ coming back was almost confirmed little over a month ago from a radio talkshow by MGG

Ward said...

They will have too many people on the cast if AJ and PB return to keep RN there. I'm not even going the possibility of TG and/or SM not returning because that would mean suicide for the show. CBS needs to be real clear that if TG and SM are not back for season 7, especially after everything that has happened this season, it is lights out for the show.

I think the writing is on the wall for the Seaver character as the article stated. It is just too highly contentious of a character that it would make no sense to continue on with being that there is such opposition to the character this late in the game. 4 episodes left in the season are not going to change such strong feelings. I don't think that the network wants to take that risk, imo. Plus, that character and JJ on the same team, that is just not going to work because of everything that has happened. The point of bringing Cook back, I think, is to correct a past wrong, for better or worse, the Seaver character is associated with that past wrong. Even if PB doesn't return, I don't think CBS will want to continue the whole Seaver debacle next saeson.

Ward said...

Deadline is a very good source on entertainment information. They didn't say anything definitive with regard to RN, but the fact that they said Cook's return does't bode well is something that, really, even if they hadn't of stated, I would have thought anyway. I don't know what they are going to end up doing, but being that this character is highly contentious and Cook seems like she is coming back, I don't see RN in the picture. The heated nature and controversey surrounding this character is really something I don't think the network wants to start off a new season with. Again, I don't work at CBS, but if I were a network exec I would just want to go back to square one and try to get all the puzzle pieces back together again.

Optika said...

Sorry Michael,

I agree with Ward. It was strange seeing both Cook and Nichols in Lauren and Seaver just doesnt work for the most part. Someone witll still get shafted and it wouldnt be fair to any of the characters or the actors.
Best advice for RN would be to quit the show and continue with movies becuase even if she's in crappy movies, she's a decent actress in them like Meskada.
RN will be fine post CM. I highly beleive that AJ and PB and TG and SM will come back!

gubegirl said...

Michael, they are referring to the words "do not bode well" re: Seaver altho' they state that at present she is a regular.

They are saying if AJ - with or without Paget,returns, this could mean dropping Seaver from the show.
Sorry, buddy.

You are right: In the interview with MGG last month, he had dinner with AJ & her family; afterwards he hinted strongly that she might return.

They also mention what storyline they may have for her next season; this could mean that she comes back as a profiler as many here have suggested. But even if she comes back as the team liaison, they will prob'ly offer her something enticing as far as storylines to make it worth her while. And to make up for their previous senseless behavior re: her contract to begin with.

What kind of tuneage are you listening to these days?

Anonymous said...

This would still be considered taking the high road for both AJ and Paget if they return becuase of what happened to them and if they or even one of them returns, it takes a big person to do that after what they went through.
Of course, it is more than understandable if they still choose not to return.

Michael said...

gubegirl
i like the new album of sum 41

If she will not be on CM anymore CBS should in fact give her another job because after hiring her 4 months ago and then let her go they are almost obligated to give her another gig if she does not continue on CM

Loren said...

Hah it's amazing how much a television show can upset!

My thing is, I don't want her shoved down my throat. If she has to be here, let us get used to her in small amounts then work her way up. I think that would have been a MUCH smarter move.

Anyway, after the news of AJ AND Paget potentially returning, I'm nothing but smiles. I feel like we'll at least get one back, if not both.

So while I still despise Seaver as a character, I'm happy.

Optika said...

Michael,

I agree with you becuase whatever Seaver's faults are and the writers, it should not be taken out on Nichols. The best bet for Seaver would be to write her off in a way that redeems her somehow.
Anyway, CM is about to start and I was actaully wondering when a Seaver centric episode would air with her quoting. I will watch it for Hotch and Reid, Morgon and Garcia and Rossi if nothing else.

Sidenote, IMHO, both of JJ and EMily's fisrt character centric eps werent that great either, North Mammon and Honour Among Thieves or whatever, especially the latter, though they did give them great screentime, so I'm not so worried about tonight. If anyhting, it may prove even more why Seaver doesnt belong on the BAU, which is how I look at it.

Since the writers are listening and the producers, we should come up with what we would like to see on the show and keep posting it.

Anonymous said...

If AJ and Paget weren't entitled to a replacement gig from CBS, I don't think RN will be either.

Karen said...

hey gubegirl...sorry again if someone has already mentioned this song for the soundtrack. But i think Let It Be Me by Ray LaMontagne is a good song. It was in the episode JJ.

Michael said...

anonymous this is a whole different thing they hired Nichols 4 months ago and then they cast her out as a sick dog. That is not right at all. If she isn't going to be on CM anymore they should really give her another great gig on CBS. Not to mention if they are not doing that it will look really bad for the network and just spells "why the hell should an actor work for them if they just fire you like you are nothing"

Also AJ and Paget was on the show for years and they got full fan support.

I still hope they do the right thing and keep her it will not look good for the network if they fire another one just like nothing

Loren said...

Hmm I would assume they would get rid of her because of the severe dislike of her that ties in directly to the ratings which is the only thing they care about. Worse things have happened to better actors.

So far, the episode is different. I've never liked voice over work... seems corny. Otherwise... alright. Profilers watching slasher films is always a strange idea to me. Alright, it's back on.

Pari said...

For the love of God can Seaver show some kind of emotional expression besides the look of someone turtling.

Pari said...

Uh oh that kid will be a future unsub now. Poor baby seeing that.

Loren said...

Oh they need to stop the constant Seaver saves the day ploy.

Pari said...

I get that they were trying to make us like Seaver, but I never will. She needs to go.

Karen said...

well it was good up until about the last 10 mins...but the little strauss story line at the end there looks interesting

Kitty said...

Why do I suddenly see Hotchner promoted out of the field, Morgan running the unit, and Thomas Gibson pretty much devoid of screen time?

Do. Not. Want!

Anonymous said...

haters gotta hate

Loren said...

:/ Seaver overload.

To all Seaver lovers, I am REALLY trying and love the show but it is SO hard to get used to her when she keeps getting limelight of our remaining original team members.

The ending of the show usually makes or breaks the whole episode for me and the 'Seaver is the most amazing thing since sliced bread' ending broke it into a million pieces.


Season 7: Bring back AJ and Paget, and get rid of RN or at least make her start at the bottom and work her way up like everyone else.

Ugh, this is a die-hard fan of the show leaving very dissapointed.

Unknown said...

Karen I agree with you,

I loved Hotch's scene with Strauss and how she is practically promoting him and the common ground she reached with him in their personal grief!
As for Seaver, if she was inititally introduced like this she may have worked but i cant forget her mental backflips. She is inconsistenltly written. Just when you think she's ok, she is ruined by the writers. overall, good episode though.

Arelia said...

Since we are starting on the "hater" thing again it seems, yes, I am a hater of this woman's acting. I am sorry, truly I am. But it is flat, emotionless and robotic. For all of the hype in the article, there was nothing there. It was just a big thud and completely played up to make her seem important, well, I guess that part of the article rang true, except that could have been done by any random person.

The Hotch and Strauss scene at the end has me concerned. I hope this is not some sort of exit story for Hotch or him taking some role outside of the team. Would like to know what is going on with Strauss, something was off there. I just hope it won't negatively affect Hotch.

CBS give TG and SM fair contracts!!

Martin said...

acting is mostly in the eye of the beholder, if you don't like the person, you don't think that person can act.

I think RN can act. She has shown that countless of times

But i respect some can't see that but others can.

Arelia said...

Also, Hotch asking Seaver to come in to talk down the unsub. Isn't Hotch the expert at crisis negotitation??? Big time out of character writing there, but other than that good Hotch representation in this episode.

Karen said...

i did like that they didn't tell us the unsub right off the bat today. i can see what they are trying to do with the seaver character and let her gain experience but it just seems out of place. they are rushing for her to do everything at once.

Annie C said...

Note to TPTB:

I'm thrilled that AC might be coming back. She had the kind of chemistry that works so well with this show. Please, please bring her back.

I hope PB comes back as well, I truly do, but if her new pilot takes off I wish her well. If it does please come up with a credible character for a replacement. Think someone with some experience in law enforcement already, some time in the Bureau, and an actress with some screen presence other than her looks to keep up with the heavy duty guys you have on this show.

I honestly believe that TG and SM will be back next season. TPTB have said they want them, TG at least has said that he wants to come back, and there's no indication that SM doesn't want to come back, so it's probably coming down to numbers and such. With the internet broadcasting every bit of intel as soon as it appears we're all getting impatient with what's probably the standard length of time that these things take. I think we all just need to take a deep breath and be patient there.

As for RN I wish her well. I'm sure she'll find her niche somewhere. My suggestion to TPTB come from the rumor that the BAU is going to be working with what sounds like the Major Sex Crimes unit, or something similar. That would be an outstanding place for someone like Seaver to go get some experience, she can decide to go herself in the first 1-3 episodes of Season 7, and the whole thing can end gracefully and even with a chance for her to come back as a reoccurring character if you like. You have the perfect opportunity there, use it.

And then give the budget cutting that's going on, JJ can be last hired/first fired at the Pentagon/State/wherever she is and given that there would be two openings at the BAU, she could easily come back. See, neat and tidy.

Oh, and one last suggestion. You're a good, solid show with a vocal fan base, which has to be a good place to break in new writers and directors and get feedback. I commend you for trying to help the entire industry this way. I suggest you continue to pair one new writer with an older writer, or an older writer with a new director, to help with the continuity and cannon. Have the newbies write the crimes and the single-shot characters and the old hands work on the cannon folk until the newbies get a good feel for what they're doing. I think you'll get a more consistent product while also earning good karma.

Good luck.

Raven said...

Wow absolutely LOVED the fist 50 minutes of this show. It was reminiscent of old school CM. Didnt know who the unsub was, lots of good profiling just the right amount of unsub, loved loved loved the beginning! Giving the profile looked natural instead of school kids in a lineup giving their speech. Just the right amount of personal interaction with the cast. It was scary on the edge of my seat good. Then all of a sudden it kinda fell flat. Still dont understand why they came in with sirens...Hotch putting an intern in harms way is not old school Hotch, save the day Seaver was too much too soon after graduation for an intern. I feel sorry for the writers as much as RN since the character is suppose to be so green, right out of academy and shouldnt know anything but a green intern is hard to write into a script for experienced profilers. The script moves so fast there isnt room for the inexperienced. Hence the problem with the character. Loved the ending with Strauss....all in all one of the best episodes this season for me...

Kirsten said...

Very concerned fan here. I like the tension between Hotch & Strauss normally but the final scene was too much of an 'exit arc' for me. Seriously, sign TG's contract. As happy as I would be if PB/AJ were to come back, I won't watch without Hotch. Its about time CBS realized how valuable this character and actor is. We fans have had quite enough drama/trauma for one year. If we have to put up with a poorly framed Seaver, give us Hotch.

No TG, no CM 4 me. :(

Too bad the last scene left a sour taste... the opening scene had been so good.

I'm a CMer said...

WOW!! If this was the "Seaver Show", I want more eps like this. It has to be one of the most team centered eps we've had in a long time! And we got TWO great Rossi one-liners and him taking the unsub down to boot. Great job Kimberly and Rick. This ep rocked!!!!

Raven said...

Oh I just wanted to add my favorite "funny moment" when they were at the unsubs door and just when you thought Morgan was going to kick the door in...the super opens it with a key....too funny!

Lucca said...

It was a good episode case wise.
Good storyline in my opinion.
I also liked the scene with Strauss and Hotch.

I'm really not a fan of the scene where Hotch asked Seaver to talk down the unsub.
She's barely out of the academy and gaining experience at an unrealistic pace. I know this is a TV show, but I have a difficult time with this character.

On a side note, did Reid said that he started college at 14 or that he was in college at 14 ?
He graduated high school at 12, so he should have started college earlier.
I sort of missed his exchange with Morgan on that subject so if someone could clue me in. Thanks.

gubegirl said...

Karen: Yes, I have "Let it be Me" on the list. It was so fitting for JJ's departure...I had just seen Ray Lamontagne in concert a few wks before and recognized the song immed in that epi and was thrilled it was chosen - the lyrics and that hoarse-y voice of his are very distinctive.

Michael: Do not know sum 41. Do you think I should be cking it out for future CM use or are you just liking it personally? I do like alot of indie and alternative stuff.

And, I have to say that I don't think actors who fail or shows that they are on, fail, get any special treatment: this is not like other jobs. Take my favorite actor, Jimmy Smits, for instance. Several years ago, he starred on a CBS drama, "Cane," Despite having excellent actors (Hector Elizondo, Rita Moreno, the handsome guy from LOST who left to do this and luckily, got his old gig back, etc.) Had a unique storyline and super music, it flopped after about 10 or 12 epis. Then, last fall, he got another new series, The Outlaw, picked up by NBC, about a judge who gets disenchanted with the system and goes rogue to represent hard-luck criminal cases. It also was quite good and different and there aren't many better actors than my boy, Jimmy. But, WTH? It was cancelled after 4 or 5 shows much to my chagrin. Hardly had a chance.

RN was in a thankless position and the poor kid prob'ly was excited beyond belief to get the CM job. But people in this business also know: it's the way the business works. What she maybe didn't know, is what a strong family/fan/following the cast enjoys: that would be us Fanatics.

Can hardly wait to see the show; I'm on the west coast and there are almost 90 mins left before it starts but I have already read your spoilers. Wondering if the writers are toying with us and the Hotch storyline BECAUSE his contract has not been signed yet and they are doing a cat-mouse game, worrying us that TG might be leaving just to hold our interest? Keep us coming back to see what's up? Just thinking...
At this point, they could be tweaking the scripts here & there toward the end of this season to compensate and maybe salvage some fandom for all the bloopers from the entire season?

And finally: WAS THE MUSIC GOOD?!

Karen said...

I agree with everything you said about ray! its one of my fav songs since i heard it on CM!...there wasnt really any music this episode. just once at the beginning for like 15 seconds bc the unsub turned on the victims stereo.

Eleven said...

Please could someone let me know asap if there is a way to kick my Minds addiction without kicking the proverbial bucket? Anyway, i still have to wait a while before i get to watch this episode. While i kissed my laptop, did a little dance, and hurt myself while using a chair as a guitar the moment i read about AJ (and possibly Paget), what is this horrible horrible feeling about Shemar and Thomas??? Please tell me this mad speculation is akin to that at the end of Season 3 and at the end of Season 4? Pleeeeeeeeeeease....I cannot imagine Minds without Hotch (and Morgan).






If TG leaves i'll just have to reach for that piece of paper, you know the kind that starts with "The last will and testament"?

I know they have already played Cohen, but there has been so much 'loss' on CM over the years, I can totally hear "Say good bye to Alexandra leaving/then say good bye to Alexandra lost"

Mephisto said...

Wow. Go Rossi:) ! Like the beginning and the Hotch Strauss scenes. Her storyline sounds promising, as logn as Hotch really just doesn't have to quit his job on the team. Unfortunatley Seaver really ruined it for me towards the end. I can't stand that woman and want to turn off teh tv every time she is on.

Alison said...

I loved this episode! For me it felt really old school CM! Apart from not seeing Reid and Morgan in the final scenes at the house I felt everyone got good screen time.

Mary J said...

Really creepy episode, loved the team scenes, Hotch and Strauss scenes were excellent and Rossi was awesome tonight. Other than Seaver assisting Hotch with the unsub I really liked this episode a lot, keep them coming!

WOW! What a thrill to read that AJ is in negotiations; doing the happy dance for her return. I would love to see Paget back too; fingers crossed without wishing any ill will toward her new pilot.

I didn’t read the ending scene with Hotch and Strauss as something bad, it’s about time they (she) give Hotch the respect he deserves and she did say “…I’m not asking you to step away from your duties…”

Music: I watched Poison on A&E yesterday and noticed that two of the original songs had been changed. Love your idea for a CM Soundtrack, I listen to CM episodes while I’m driving (promise I’m not watching, just listening) along with several of the songs used in episodes, most of which have already been mentioned here already.

CBS: No Hotch = NO CM 4 ME! And DANCE WITH THE ONES THAT BRUNG YA!!!

Maggie said...

Loren, I think you hit it on the head in that it is overload, not overload of time necessarily, but just this super acceleration of this character from complete novice, to profiler, to saving the day. It is just all over the place and that is where the overload comes in and also that is where the "rubbing the wrong way" comes into play for me because it is this "You see she is great, super, magnificent." I'm not trying to be sarcastic, I am sincerely sorry if I am coming off that way, but it is a bit irksome when these tactics are obviously placed. I don't have an issue with character being used in certain ways, but it is the way that she is being used that is just off. I think that goes to Raven's point that therein lies the issue with this character because you can't really find a balance for this type of character among such experienced profilers. It will either be this becoming a "profiler overnight, greatest thing since sliced bread thing," or a litany of asking questions and going through the motions of training. It just doesn't work and throws off the flow that has always been the hallmark of the show.

I don't know what it is but neither with the team or in the interview scene, I don't know there is a distance and nothing seems natural or to flow (chemistry) like the other characters. I don't want to say acting out of fear that this will start a back and forth, but sorry, that is what it breaks down to.

The fact that Hotch asked her to come in unarmed to speak to the unsub with him, to me that is an obvious "save the day ploy" to create some string for this character. Yet, this is just plain something that Hotch would not do as evidenced most recently in the last episode. The out of character writing surrounding this character is really bothersome to me and is something that I don't foresee ending because the character is so green and is being placed in situations where someone so green should not be and could not function yet in a credible sense.

Anyway, I wanted to address this character first as there was a heavy speculation as to how the episode would play out.

Aside from this, I did like that we were not told who the unsub was from the beginning and I always enjoy when Morgan and Reid go out on investigations together. I think they work well off one another. There was more emphasis on profiling which was refreshing instead of close to half of the time being spent riding along with the unsub. What I am going to say next, I think, will be repeated by others. The scene with Hotch and Strauss, I can't help but to think that a "Plan B" script is being plotted out in case Hotch does not return to CM. If that is the case, I'm guessing one will be fashioned for Morgan as well. I can't even say what I would feel if either one of these men were not to return because it is unthinkable to me. I hope that the contract issue with these men are worked out soon. CM cannot afford to lose either man.

Michael said...

gubegirl sum 41 is a newage punk band. well i listen to a lot of music but right now its them. also enjoy staind from the early days and some of there songs could definitely be used in CM. Because its kind of hard rock and slow music alltogether
Radiohead,Coldplay,Slayer, well i listen to a lot of genres mostly rock though

what do you listen to?


to the episode
this episode was really good and a very creepy unsub. Liked the team dynamic. Seaver is finally beginning to feel like part of the team. She was really great in this one and you can see she definitely has learned something by hanging around with this team. Big step up from the first episode she appeared in

Marli said...

Ayazay Shaheen Ahmed
"so excited about today's episode. Will we ever learn about the cause of Reid's headaches or is that issue closed?"

rickdunkle
"headaches were resolved a bit in "With Friends Like These..." but issues like such can always come back to haunt our team members."


Resolved how?
You mean dropped because you can't even bother to follow up on and finish a storyline, Rick? Cause that's what it looks like.

God, where is Andrew Wilder???

And I tried, I even like Rachel Nichols, but I can't with her acting on this show. This character is killing the chemistry all around it.

And I would've loved the opening scene, like a season ago. With our old and close team, but I guess it's too much to ask.

Elisabeth said...

Good episode.
I really enjoyed the fact that we didn't see the unsub right from the beginning. It's a nice change in my opinion.

I loved the scene at the beginning where the unsub's actions (and the victim's too) match Reid and Garcia's conversation. It was really well acted and directed.

And it's nice to see the team going out to see a movie.
But please, no romance.
I really hope to not see romantic storyline on this show.
A little bit about their private life, yes, but no romance please !

Reid's line about driving in college was funny.
"I could drive it's just the government wouldn't issue me a license until (since ?) I was 14", LOL.

Well Reid, since you graduated High School at 12 I imagine that you had to wait before obtaining your driving license.

I don't think the scene between Strauss and Hotch meant that Thomas Gibson is leaving. I guess we'll find out more later about this. It could potentially be interesting.

@Marli

I too read what Rick Dunkle said about Reid's headaches, and I'm disappointed.

So, that's the extent of Reid's big secret : he had headaches because he was stressed...
And it was sort of resolved with this conversation between Morgan and Reid...

Well, Rick Dunkle also said that it was resolved but not necessarily over...I'm not too sure what to think about that.

They showed us Reid had headaches, but it didn't become relevant in an episode (except maybe for "Corazon" where it was introduced), so if it doesn't play a role at some point what's the point ?

I just hope they will do something interesting with it...

gubegirl said...

I could be small and petty but I am going to be honest: RN was not so bad tonite. Her first scene was the best and the last few moments not as good, but all in all, nothing like the forced, unnatural acting we have seen before. Her with Hotch: It didn't seem quite so bad I thought it might be, with Hotch asking her to accompany him inside and being unarmed. #1) he was taking the calculated risk that the unsub would be surprised and distracted by a young female and secondly, #2 She was not in as much danger since he was right there. The length of time they were able to engage the unsub allowed Rossi to enter from the back and then take him out when there was no other option. Good job, Rossi. Did the Morgan job tonite and did it well.

Re: tonite's first scene: I didn't see anyone commenting about Garcia hanging on Morgan in such a proprietary way? WTH is Kevin and what is going on? On a side note, MGG and SM are both pretty tall guys - I think they are both 6' or 6'1" and RN looks to be almost as tall as them as they leave the theater. I did not realize she was so tall.

I love the new Strauss twist. She obviously has something serious going on her personal life and I have to wonder how sudden this is? I also don't feel at this time that Hotch is being relegated to all-office work but it opens the door to 1.) him being in a higher position to RE-HIRE JJ! 2.) Take out Doyle using unorthodox/Forrest-like methods w/o uppermgmt looking over his shoulder - LOL! and finally, 3.) Get Emily back safely into the fold! Whoo-hoo!

Then, do we get more Morgan in a suit and tie? Nice look but so-o not Morgan. Like the casual raglan-sleeve-really-nice-chest look and we can't give that up:)

Marli: when/where did Rick Dunkle say that about Reid's headaches?

Michael: Can you give a couple of your faves from Staind to save me some time? I don't know them. Anything by Coldplay is up there in my book - love those guys, don't know Slayer's stuff well: are they more metal? It's getting late and I'm getting tired. Hey, how about "Creep" by Radiohead? Prob'ly my fave by them and how more appropriate for CM? Will go back and listen to the lyrics. I like several genres and anything British - old and new, esp 80's stuff with great riffs, keyboard and guys that can sing with I call a good girl voice (like Steve Perry in Journey). Sorry, I am dating myself:) Pat is not the only "old" one on here - hah!

More music tomorrow...

UnitChiefMorgan said...

This episode was absolutely dreadful, and not because it was a Seaver episode.

Hardly any Morgan in it at all. The only good part, was the very beginning scene. 'Minds has thrown out quite a bit of duds this season. It started off so amazingly with "The Longest Night," which is still my absolute favorite, and then went downhill.

The Seaver Show? She gets one episode, and that's what yall think is gonna come of this?

For six seasons, it's been The Hotch Show, so, under that scenario, not much will change. Just trading bad for bad, in my book.

Pat said...

The episode was not as disappointing as I expected.

I did like:

1) We didn't know who the unsub was from the very beginning.
2) The fact that we got to see a bit of everyone.
3) Seaver interviewing the roommate was fine.
4) The fact that there was some profiling and that Seaver was not included. This is more realistic to me since she is, in effect, not a profiler. She helped in other ways.

I didn't like:

1) The writers' continued attempt to shove Seaver down our throats. We never see Reid, Morgan and Garcia out at the movies so this is like an obvious ploy by the writers to say, "See she belongs, you should like her." It's up there with "She'd want us to embrace Seaver."
2) Her being chosen by Hotch for the hostage negotiation. Hotch has done this hundreds of times. He even told Gary in Children of the Dark that he wrote the textbook on it so he wouldn't need a rookie to do it for him. That's what bugs me. The other characters have to act OOC like Rossi with the hand holding fresh eyes fiasco to make this character seem like she's productive in some way. She should be able to stand on her own without another character being OOC to prop her up, but she can't because she just doesn't fit.

Anonymous said...

I didn't mind Seaver interviewing the roommate--in fact, that's what I think her job should be, help victims as a counselor of sort. I've always thought she might have studied psychology of victimization--maybe after the revelation of her father as a serial killer?

So this episode wasn't as Seaver-centric as we thought--that article blew it out of proportion. Hope the negotiations with AJ Cook go well. I wonder what changed CBS's mind to bring her back, but I'm still glad that JJ will soon return (in what capacity, I don't know).

Kury said...

I loved Hanley Waters (last week's episode) and I liked this episode very much. Like everyone else said, It was nice not to know who is the unsub from the beginning and discovers it through profiling. I would like to see more episode like this in the future.
I don't feel Hotch being OOC when he ordered Seaver to go with him without weapon. Actually I thought it clever and in character for Hotch. Because Hotch is the person who gives subordinate a chance and in this case, he used her to get the job done more effectively rather than ask her to do his job. Seaver was much less threatening for unsub and we could expect unsub to let the guard down more and making time for Rossi to get him and Hotch was right there to protect her if any action unsub might have taken.
I really love what Seaver said to the victim after the case. That kind of follow up/after care of victim was very Criminal Minds like and I missed it very much.
As for the conversation between Hotch and Strauss, I really really hope it not lead to Hotch's exit from the show. I don't know how should I think about their conversation at the end, but I really hope Hotch will stay as the Unit Chief and strong leader of BAU in Season 7.

CAFL said...

Ugh, what happened to the promise of this season after the premier, which, was the best episode EVER!?

Such a let down. All of the most recent episodes have been.

My disdain has nothing to do with Seaver. I actually like Seaver, and people on this blog are just outright unjustifiably viscous towards her, and from what I've read in other threads, the same goes for the Morgan character.

I just read through the old spoiler thread from my favorite episode, and people were MAKING UP THINGS just to cast stones at Morgan, saying stuff like "He was out of control" "He was annoying" "He had no right to be angry." "Hotch should have put him in his place."

RIDICULOUS!

Puh-leaze. What place? He has no "place." Hotch isn't the ultimate authority figure. He's the leader, he's not God. His authority needs to be challenged more often than it is, because he becomes to arrogant and hypocritical. Why didn't he take time off? Wasn't his wife killed? Doesn't he have a 5 year old son? Talk about bad parenting. He was offered wonderful benefits, enough to take care of him and his son for a lifetime, if he retired, and he turned it down. Morgan was doing an amazing job as leading the team and he got crapped on for that too. Everyone wanted their Hotch back in charge. Morgan has done nothing but support Hotch, have his back, and seek his admiration, which I feel is totally ridiculous, and is the only flaw I find with the Morgan character, because he doesn't need Hotch's approval, and I'm glad he stopped seeking it. He's not some subordinate peon. He's become a veteran profiler. He's a former Unit Chief. He's not some little boy looking for his father's praise.

A.J. Cook is coming back? Fine and dandy. I miss her, but not terribly, and I'll say this, if Shemar's contract isn't renewed, they can bring back Elle and Gideon for all I care, because I will no longer be a fan of the show without the Morgan character.

Morgan and Garcia are my favs, while I like Rossi, Reid, and Seaver (I liked Prentiss and JJ too) but Hotch in no way, shape or form, makes Criminal Minds for me.

I keep thinking back to "25 To Life." What a breath of fresh air. I loved it. The team being together, Rossi was in charge, he TRUSTED Morgan, and had his back the entire time during the profile, sticking up for him in front of Strauss. When has Hotch ever done that? Morgan has stuck up for Hotch countless times, but gets nothing in return. It's disgraceful. He USED Morgan when he promoted him, to draw out Foyet, and the hurt look on Morgan's face made me loathe Hotch even more, so did them writing Morgan to CONTINUE to be this loyal little puppy to Hotch. *rolls eyes*

I love Morgan and Rossi's relationship. They're so cool together, dating all the way back to "Lucky," when I still thought Rossi was an arrogant jerk. Since then, Rossi has been the one guy who can talk Morgan into or out of everything, because he understands him, and you can tell he generally likes him. I love that!

I love the little brother/big brother relationship between Morgan and Reid.

I love the bantering uber close relationship between Morgan and Garcia, and it is the one thing that can always make me smile, even when I don't want to.

I can feel a sisterly relationship between Morgan and Seaver growing as well, which I will come to love.

But I'm sick of the way Hotch treats him, as well as how many of the 'Minds fans treat him as well. He doesn't deserve it.

CAFL said...

He's loyal, protective of his team, to the max, when one of them has a problem, he ALWAYS at some point goes to them, and tried to talk to them about their feelings. He did it with Reid and his nightmares, as well as a few other noted times. He's had many memorable bonding scenes with Prentiss on the jet, where he has talked to her about how she was feeling after a case. Garcia, I don't even need to explain that. Heck, he's even tried to open up to Hotch. I can remember one episode he got Hotch to open up to him when Haley left him.

He's not this arrogant jackass people claim he is. His love for children is a wonderful characteristic, and is another reason I love him as a character. He's a badass when it comes to those threatening those he cares about. He's just a good guy, which is something you wouldn't expect from individuals who have the sex-symbol like looks that he was born with. Most of the time those people ARE arrogant and haughty. It's refreshing to see Derek Morgan not coming off that way, and it should be appreciated.

/end rant.

Eva said...

Despite what the article implied, the episode was not as Seaver intensive as most expected. For the most part, Seaver functioned in the case as in the most recent episodes with the exception of the last scene. What stuck out more this week was just the uneveness and flatness of the characters presence on the screen which I think could only fairly be attributed at least in part to the actresses portrayl. Hotch is a stoic character whom we've seen from time to time display other feelings, but even for all of Hotch's stoicism there is a force and intensity that carries through what he is portraying at that moment; a "something" that for me makes me look forward to seeing his character the following week because of that presence. With Seaver, it is strictly just a "matter of fact" tone with no sort of anything behind it that makes me stand up and take any real notice. While I understand that she is a rookie being thrown into new situations that may be initimidating and that may affect delivery for this character, there is nothing there that engages me and makes me anticipate seeing her the next time, unlike some other shows where less experienced characters have intrigued me and made me look for them in the next episode. All of the previous CM characters, and present original cast, has had something about their character that stood out, fit, and worked off one another. For me, some were more pronounced and enjoyable than others like for example Prentiss' presence was more enjoyable, fit more, and was less jagged to me than Elle's. Nevertheless, there was an energy that bounced off from one to the other that made them stand independent of one another along as collectively as a team.

Personally, I do think that the final scene with Hotch and Seaver was out of character for Hotch being that he is an expert in hostage situations and I am sure has been in tighter positions than this episode. But okay, let's say it was a tactic he used on purpose to disarm the unsub to get Rossi in there to take the unsub down, using Seaver as someone the unsub would not feel threatened by. The issue comes in that yet again another character is being used to try and elevate this character by being the vehicle upon which she is highlighted (I'm tying this back to my last point about past and prsent CM characters being able to stand independent of another character as well as collectively as a team). Unlike previous and present original CM characters, there has never been such a linking to provide "credibility" for a character, they have all managed to stand on their own. First, the linking was with Prentiss who served as a mentor of sorts, then with Rossi (which I am glad that has been toned down), now Hotch was used, albeit in a smaller capacity, to add "credence" to this character. I get that it may be because she is a rookie, but that is just it, being that she is a rookie there will, in essence, always have to be some member of the team shadowing her or elevating her to some degree because it would not be credible for her to do this on her own being that she is a rookie. I suppose the getting her from point A to Z in warp speed, which I think has been done in many ways with the profiling in other episodes and some of her contributions at the briefings can be done, but to truly stay with in the stream of her being a rookie this linking will have to play far too central of a role which I don't think a team of this caliber should be doing.

Eva said...

part 2

I think the idea presented in an earlier post about Strauss and Hotch are interesting in that it could serve as a gateway to rehire JJ back to the team and bring Prentiss safely back, but because of the current contract situation I am hesitant to think this was the vein that scene was written in. It smacked more of a possible exit strategy for Hotch placing him in a Strauss like position that would put him in a far less visible role, perhaps to the point of not seeing him. Being in a Strauss type of position could open the door for him to be able to rehire JJ with no resistance (whether that be as a profiler or Media Liaison), and if Prentiss were to return, to go after Doyle to secure her safe return back to the BAU, but I can't shake the feeling that this is not where they were going with this possible Hotch movement. It would be devastating to lose the Hotch character as well as the Morgan character and I hope that there is a resolution to the contract situation that brings both of these men back; they just have to come back.

Eleven said...

May i say something? A couple of posts above are a bit disconcerting. I tried to push people towards 'music' in an earlier thread to regenerate the positivity that was prevalent in the past talking about the characters, growing with them, feeling their angst, laughing with them. However, I think the strong emotions surrounding the Seaver character have boiled over into other things. Please let's not start a Morgan vs Hotch, Rossi vs Reid or ONE OF OUR MAGNIFICENT SEVEN VS ANOTHER debate. It just feels wrong. Of course it smacks of double standards if we do the same with Seaver. I do understand that the others have been with us for 3-6 years, but negativity knows no bounds i have seen. Sooner rather than later it comes back to bite us. Let's hope for the best and keep our chin up. Cheers

Anonymous said...

Hmm someone is very in love with Morgan this week, while trying to campaign to have Hotch out of the team. Someone who is pro-Seaver. Gee, I wonder why and who it could be.

Melissa said...

Wow! So happy to hear the news about AJ and Paget. Thank you CBS for listening to your fans! Now can you please seal the deal with both TG and SM to make the team whole again? To restore the team to how it once was? Thank you!

Eleven said...

Anonymous, i don't know - it doesn't make sense to me. My only point is that it's absolutely great (and completely natural - he is VERY popular) that someone should be pro-Morgan (or anyone for that matter) - he is a lovely, warm, courageous, adorably hot-headed (and hot) character! But why in the world does one need to be against someone/something to be pro someone/something? (I'm sure TG and SM are rolling their eyes about this - remember the 'batbelt' video on youtube? And TBH, if the characters were real, Morgan and Hotch would be rolling their eyes, too). Plus, whetever 'conflict'/difference of opinion they may have had at times were pretty natural. heck, happens between family members, friends, colleagues.
Ok, i'll shut up now - i don't want to add fuel to this. Best if it stopped right here. i absolutely love them all and would be eternally grateful if they were able to get back Paget and AJ (i cannot watch 'JJ' without bawling my eyes out) and keep ThomasG(odHelpMe) and Shemar(ALWAYSMore) for as long as we all shall live :-)

Eleven said...

Sorry, small clarification - the conflicts i referred to above were between the characters and not b/w the actors playing the characters.

Jessica said...

Eleven,

I -love- the bat belt video! :-) I love Hotch and Morgan scenes. The juxtaposition between their two very different styles and personalities is just lovely to see. I really hope CBS can renew them both soon. It would be foolish to make the same mistake as last year. No more cutting of original cast please!!! Seaver is the most expendable at this point. JMO.

Anonymous said...

Sorry to say tonight's episode was, in my opinion, the worst in CM history. What value did the BAU add? Think the SDPD could have figured out that the slasher hated women.

I love all but one member of this cast (nothing personal RN, just can't warm to your character) and will stay loyal but this has been a really rough season to get through. With the departures of JJ and Prentiss, addition of PASS, unimaginative plot lines and dull dialog of SO many of this season's eps, this fan is worn out with frustration and disappointment.

Never thought I'd say this, but I am actually looking forward to the end of S6 in the hopes that Erica Messer can rejuvenate the show in S7. Hearing that our beloved JJ and perhaps even Prentiss may be returning has my hopes up already. Hoping Thomas and Shemar are holding out for assurance that this show, to which the whole cast and crew give their blood, sweat and tears, will once again get the resources it needs to be great once again.

Eleven said...

Jessica, i love their interaction as well! In fact, that's what makes CM so very very good. It's the distinctive dynamics between one character and the six other individual characters. Brilliant! That's also perhaps why Seaver feels so odd, and also most of this season. Where was that Chinese resto scene - at the end of 'the instincts', was it (was also used in 'JJ')? and also, have they ever looked more beautiful as they did then? Missed Reid in that scene, though (poor man was having nightmares about his dad).

Nanci said...

I admit I only watched bits and pieces of last nights episode. I just can't commit to the whole thing anymore....like the last 'anonymous' said - this whole season has been frustrating and draining.

That said - I did catch the last bit of the program where my man, Rossi, took out the unsub! yeah Rossi - finally some action for Mr. BAU. Loved that part - otherwise, I'm just looking forward to S7 with the hopes that all will be back to normal.

sdwally said...

Remember the old adage, “Turnabout is Fair Play.” When I read the news about AJ Cook’s impending return that was the first thing that crossed my mind. If I remember correctly, it was on the day of AJ Cook’s last episode of Criminal Minds that it was announced that CBS was signing Rachel Nichols on as a fulltime regular cast member, effectively spoiling Cooks’ final episode for the fans and pouring salt into an open wound. Fast forward to Nichol’s coming out party with as TV Guide noted: “…a fairly Seaver-centric hour,” and there goes CBS again announcing on the same day, the negotiations to return AJ Cook to the fold. CBS has a shrewd if not unpleasant way raining on your parade. But I must admit, yesterday’s announcement made watching The Stranger a little less stressful for me.

I typically enjoy Rick Dunkle episodes and this one was no different. He and Kim Harrison did a good job of creating suspense and scary moments throughout Stranger. They opted to make Rossi the action figure rather than Morgan this episode, and it was a nice change for Rossi. Although it was a little funny to see Rossi looking as if he were climbing steps to enter the window before taking out the unsub. I enjoyed the teaming and profiling and didn’t have a problem with Seaver’s interview of the victim’s roommate.

I thought it was way out of character for Hotch to ask Seaver to accompany him into the home. After Hotch got the unsub (who looked like a young Bob Newhart) to agree to let him in the house, the unsub’s “goose was cooked.”Hotch didn’t need Seaver. But we had already been forewarned that this was the official debut of the character’s worth, so some kind of noble, extraordinary performance was expected. For some reason, I find myself unable to adjust/warm up to the Seaver character or Nichol’s delivery.

There can never be enough Hotch for me in any episode, but I’m not criticizing his screen time in Stranger. Harrison/Dunkle scripted Hotch as the strong, decisive leader I love to see. I am curious about the ending scene with Strauss. In my mind, the writers need to set up a situation where they can control and limit the potential damage to Hotch when is secret is finally disclosed. Strauss would be the only one gunning for Hotch’s head; so with her out of the picture, and Hotch in control, he would be able to control the fallout without his nemesis driving him out of the BAU and the FBI entirely. It also give Hotch the opportunity to seek out Doyle and Prentiss while leaving the BAU covered.

I don’t think CBS would undermine Thomas Gibson’s return, especially after the firestorm it caused with AJ’s and Paget’s ouster. I expect to see the entire team together again next season; at least I’m hoping Paget will be there as well.

Michael said...

I really hope Nichols could still stay.
If not CBS should offer her another gig because this is noway to treat an actress for a show. Hire her couple a moths ago to regular and then drop her that is not how it works if she will not be a part of CM anymore CBS and the producers of CM should get her a grat gig elsewhere on th CBS or ABC

I am speechles by this mess

Nanci said...

Michael, I can appreciate your sympathy towards RN, but they sure as heck didn't mind 'dropping' AJ Cook and Paget Brewster who had/have given years to the series.

That said - I don't feel bad for any actor/actress losing a job - they make far more in a week than I make in several years. Get over it already - it's not working out.

Anonymous said...

I'm hoping the show has more self-respect than to fold to a bit of fan fuss. It won't be to their credit and they might come to rue the day.

Come on, don't be weak in this, show -- you've started with this new character, let's see what you can do with her. That's the brave and good thing to do, no matter what else happens to your straying/returning cast. And it looks like good news there...

UK viewer

Meg said...

I enjoyed it for the most part. I liked the Reid moments, I think Rick Dunkle writes Reid fabulously well and I liked the Morgan - Reid moments. I like seeing them working together and I liked Morgan's brotherly teasing of Reid, much more enjoyable than earlier this season when Morgan just seemed permanently angry or impatient with Reid.

Also liked that we didn't know who the unsub was right from the start, that was a welcome change.

The only downside for me was the one character I just can't take a liking to. I've tried and tried to enjoy her scenes but it's still not happening for me.

I'm very excited that AJ might be coming back. I've missed her all season, the show hasn't been the same without her. Now all I need is for TG and SM's negotiations to be sorted successfully so I can confident that they'll be back next season too. I'd also love to see Paget back but I also hope her Pilot does well, I wish her all the best whatever happens. If S7 gives me back the old team of Reid, Morgan, Hotch, Garcia, Rossi, JJ and Prentiss I'll be a very, very happy camper.

I was also quite excited by a few tweets on Rick Dunkle's Twitter. A couple of people asked if the writers were still going anywhere with Reid's headache storyline and he answered 'yes'.

Plus I'm hoping that whatever is wrong/troubling Strauss that it all gets cleared up during the summer and she is back next seasoan. I absolutely love Strauss. :-)

Anonymous said...

In the meantime, they've got some interesting story-lines to handle. JJ back from the Pentagon. Emily from the grave.

Should be fun!

UK viewer

sf81387 said...

I was also quite excited by a few tweets on Rick Dunkle's Twitter. A couple of people asked if the writers were still going anywhere with Reid's headache storyline and he answered 'yes'.

I though he answered that the issue had been addressed in "With Friends Like These", but that it could come up again. I think they're done with Reid headach storyline for this season.

I liked the episode. It's been awhile since an episdoe of CM spooked me, but this one did.

Anonymous said...

The knife-cuts at the end were hard to watch -- they felt so personal. It felt like real-time, direct, person-to-person conversation, only with a knife. I agree this one was really creepy.

UK viewer

Alison said...

Just a thought - has Rachel Nichols already signed a contract for season 7? If she has does that not mean they legally can't get rid of her?

Asian fan said...

I haven't caught the new episode yet online nor read any of the posts. I hope there isn't a strict stick-to-the-ep rule for this thread, but I just wanted to register my glee at learning that AJ is being courted back to CM, & that Paget may yet be back as well! :-D Yes, yes, yes! Thank you Powers-That-Be!

Now to make sure TG & SM will be back for S7 & beyond as well. Come on, CM/CBS/ABC/whoever else needs to hear this: resolve the negotiations by giving them what they want, already!

Anonymous said...

I swear, that last scene between Hotch and Strauss gave me nothing but a bad feeling.

I would like to know the purpose of that, because at the moment, all I have is the impression that this would just make easier for an exit arc for Hotch.

And for that, writers, I'll say, don't make it easier for CBS to continue ruining this show. Please!

So, I hope this storyline doesn't go where I'm dreading it might.

Julie

Ann said...

Reading Rick Dunkle's chat I'm very concerned about the fact that TPTB continue to be in denial about this character they created and the power of fan backslash.
Please, writers and producers, wake up and admit your errors, fix them and move on.

Maggie said...

Uk viewer, I'm sorry but this is more than just a bit of fan "fuss." This is a problem that has reared its head not only here but in every place that fans get together to talk about the show. It is so predominant, and at times gets so nasty, that it would be foolish for CBS and CM not to take notice and resolve the situation before it gets to the stage that people start turning the channel.

Networks have bottom lines and their bottom line is to ensure that the viewing audience returns on a weekly basis, leading to possible increased ad revenue and selling of show merchandise such as DVD's. If there is something that may act as an impediment to that, it must be addressed and dealt with accordingly, just as it would in any line of business. The show is the product and if there is something (or multiple things) that are causing or could cause the product to decrease in value then that needs to be dealt with before a decrease in value occurs.

Michael said...

why Seaver could be great.
Give her a chance all new kids need a break. No exception with Seaver. like Rick says

Anonymous said...

"But I'm sick of the way Hotch treats him, as well as how many of the 'Minds fans treat him as well. He doesn't deserve it."

whaaa? I must be watching the wrong show all along eh? I always love the interaction between the two. Be it disagreement, butting heads or bonding. The way they're is fine by me!

Maggie said...

Alison, no one really knows what type of contract Nichols signed, at least I have never seen anything published to that effect. However, it doesn't appear that whatever sort of contract she signed would stop the network course of action to eliminate her character from the show if that is what they decide to do.

Ann, with regard to Rick Dunkle, he is a writer, and I believe the story editor, he doesn't have the type of power to say what character stays or goes on the show. That is something that the network must ultimately decide and it will be based on many factors, some of which I discussed in my previous post. Dunkle is a writer and as a writer he is excited about writing possibilities, not the type of reception this character is receiving. But it is precisely the type of reaction that this character is receiving that is of issue. Unlike Rossi and Prentiss, this character has many negatives against her (primary of which is her rookie status and delivery) that those characters didn't have to face and that many fans are not just going to erase. Rossi and Prentiss were the right characters in strength, experience and qualifiaction to replace Gideon and Elle, that is not the case here.

Dunkle's words struck me as the same in nature and tone as that which Ed uttered many months back when he spoke of this character, months later, nothing has changed. Personally, I feel it is just time to move on.

Maggie said...

Michael, with the near destruction of the spin-off, viewer dissatisfaction with this character, uncertainity regarding Paget's return, and the looming issue of TG and SM's contracts, I personally don't believe the network is going to, or should, take any more gambles with this show. What they tried this season, for many (not all) has not panned out and I believe they know that and are trying to remedy the situation by offering AJ a contract to come back next season. A remedy, in my opinion, can't contain one or more root problems.

Ann said...

Michael said...
“why Seaver could be great.
Give her a chance all new kids need a break. No exception with Seaver. like Rick says”

Honestly, Michael, I really tried.
I really did, but the character and the acting just don't fit with the show and the chemistry this unit always had.
She is just not a good fit. You can try working around that, try to make it better, try different approaches, but if by the course of 10 episodes, the character is still not accepted and liked, you have a choice to make.
You keep the character because you are that kind of person who won't admit your mistakes; you keep her because YOU like her and don't care if no one else likes her; you keep her because you have no other choice or you give up and try something else to see if that works out.
A show with characters like Hotch, Reid, Prentiss and Rossi really doesn't need an Ashley Seaver, they need the next big, awesome, interesting thing.
And Prentiss wasn’t liked in what, her first 3 episodes? How many episodes will take? How many episode will they try?
If we are getting AJ back, let Seaver go please. And lets wait on Paget. But do not start next season with the message that: “we like Seaver, you guys are being petty, we are keeping her, suck it up.” Because how many fans will take leaving this show for the producers to admit they made a mistake? Because you can throw Seaver in the CBS’s is evil mix, this is their creation.

Anyway, I’m happy for AJ, hoping for a light bulb on top of TPTB’s head and for a 7th season with MY show back.

Anonymous said...

But Maggie, the 'product' is a written thing. It's not just about meeting a market and providing a wholly pleasurable experience.

It's the measure of resistance as well as the feeling of contact with the 'product' that makes it creative and that makes it worth doing. That's why the best episodes are least like fanfiction ego-gratification. It's why I like the way they write the Rossi character. His best moments are the moments when he comes unstuck or gets wrong-footed (Zoe's Reprise, for one). He's not some over-nice idealisation but is often caught out in a faulty attempt to do good. I like that the writers made this flawed being.

In my opinion, they're taking a dangerous direction if they give way too much to admittedly loyal fan reactions. I'm all in favour of the old guys finding their way back, if possible, but not in the least in favour of letting the new one be hounded out by some bad feeling.

I would love to see the writers fight to make it work, come up with the solutions, or else give up for their own reasons if eventually it's not working. For what it's worth, I thought Nichols was rather good last night -- less for what she said than for the look of concern going into decision when Hotch first asked her to accompany him into the house, and then afterwards, for the cats-got-the-cream pleasure on her face at having carried through the role successfully. Now that felt like the rookie and the person together and it's good sign.

UK viewer

Adam Peterson said...

Yeah they should keep Rachel. It is the right thing to do. This show has had way to many scandals

Maggie said...

sf81387, so was the fact that Reid slept on the plane ride home what they are saying was the resoluton of the headache story line? That is what I kind of thought myself as Reid said that his headaches had been casuing him to not be able to fall asleep, and in some measure, I believe the headaches were being caused by stress.

cmwinner said...

I was getting creeped out last night watching the eppy. I am single and live alone. I got to school. I have a degree in education. I babysit. Yikes!

I'm not sure what to make off the last scene with Hotch and Strauss. To be honest I was bouncing on my couch when I realized she would be gone for awhile. However, then I got lookig at hear, and am starting to wonder if it's health related with why she is taking time off. Also with what she was saying to Hotch last night, it confirmed that she knows nothing about the truth about Prentiss.

If AJ Cook does come back next season (OH please do!!!!) I'm wondering if JJ will take Struas' position? I was thinking Hotch, but if Hotch takes it will we see him as much? Then again if JJ takes it will we see her every eppisode? I guess we will just all have to wait and see and cross our fingers!

gubegirl said...

CAFL:
Oh, my, oh, my. This is a first for me. I don't remember ever seeing a CMFanatic who loves a team member as much as you appear to love Morgan knock another team member the way you have Hotch.
In almost 4 years of my blogging here, it would seem that everyone has their faves but not usually being so vehemently opposed to another character, pre-Seaver.

I agree with all the things you say in praise of Morgan - he is a wonderful person. But he has never been treated badly by Hotch and if a few odd ones on this blog have mentioned that he has shown signs of being "too angry or arrogant", well I would say they are few and far between. So insignificant that we don't usu even address them. When I read those kind of "rants", I usu dismiss them as people who don't come here often and get involved in discussions, which are the main purpose for this blog.

I would like to also comment on Hotch and his parenting vs. his job: He said it himself in an old epi, where he put forth the very most, best he had while at home, knowing the phone could ring at any time and his family time would be over. He LOVES his family; they wre very important to him. (I say that present tense, since little Jack is still here.) His is a very tough job, but thank God, there are people like him to do it because it is one that needs to be done, and unfortunately this calling doesn't always apply to single, unattached people, such as the remainder of the team. I liken it to those in our military who are willing to step out and go to places like Afghanistan to fight for their country: it doesn't mean they love their families any less or that they are a bad parent.

Please re-think your position here because we welcome all CM character lovers but not at the expense of beating down another, especially Hotch. I, myself being a Reid/Morgan luv'r, would never put down Hotch the way you have. It might be a nice thing for you to apologize here before all the Hotch fans jump on your case unless that's what you're here for. JMHO. Thanking you in advance for your consideration.

Ann said...

I don't think bringing AJ and Paget to the place they have owned for the past 6 and 5 years and letting the contrived character go after half a season, can be considered a scandal, no more so than firing most of the women on a show because they are "expandable". And more like justice and a big AHA to CBS for finally realizing their mistake.

And it's funny that CBS can actually back peddle and call the actresses they fired back, admitting for everyone out there that THEY WERE WRONG, but the producers, creators and writers of Criminal Minds CANNOT do that about Seaver.

So I say, please, let Seaver go (sorry Rachel, I liked you in The Inside, not here) and restore this show like it was, just the way everyone out there liked.

Michael said...

Not everyone. Actually Seaver has fans and so does Nichols

I agree with Dunkle she is a very interesting character that they should keep. I really think CBS will look bad the the writers guild if they didn't they bring in an actress and just let her go. It is not her fault. She has still room on the show i hate to see this good person out of a job because CBS made a mess.

Maggie said...

Uk viewer, you have to have a marketable product. If it can't be "pushed" so to speak, then it loses its appeal and "selling" power. I understand what you are saying, but, again, the network, I strongly suspect, is seeing more possible negative fan backlash and potential loss of viewers. That is what they are driven by and what is leading them (I strongly belive) to recreate the team that people have responded well to and in large measure desperately want back. All of this fan dissatisfaction is not good for buisness.

I'm cutting and pasting something that Blue Sunflower wrote in another thread because I think Blue Sunflower says it better than I could:

"The fact is, if you have a negative lightning rod character such as Seaver, what you've done is make it one step easier for your audience to start tuning out. Yeah, people will watch for awhile, but since the character doesn't draw them, eventually they'll get bored and move on to another show.

It's not an immediate reaction, it's just the start of the erosion - a weakness the show *didn't* have before said character came on board. The crack that just formed, where the only route left is for it to just get bigger."

Any possibility that you may lose viewers is the match that can't afford to be struck. It is why on other shows they have let characters go after one season because it was evident things weren't working on a level that was way beyond a "fuss."

I don't know what the network will do. What they will do at this point is anyone's guess, what I am saying is that in the overall scheme of things, on a purely network level that is driven by the ability to retain and hoepfully gain viewers (retain and possibly gain ad revenue), this type of viewer reaction to such a character needs to be taken into consideration moving forward.

Pat said...

Michael said:

Hire her couple a moths ago to regular and then drop her that is not how it works

Actually, I think that's exactly how it works, in any job, not just here. You are usually on a probationary period when you're hired and if it doesn't work out you can be let go. This should be no different. If RN doesn't do her job well (playing her character so she engages the fans and instead of driving them away), then she should be let go and, like any other job, the employer shouldn't be required to find her another gig as you put it.

I'm not saying I don't feel bad for RN. She was put in an almost impossible position, trying to fill the gap left by two much loved characters and portraying a character that, from the very outset, was so inherently flawed.

But, I'm sure the sponsors don't care about an actress' feelings, nor should they. Their only concern is that the show they're sponsoring generate viewers so that they can generate more revenue. If the actress can't do that, and worse yet, is turning viewers away, then she should be released. It's the nature of business.

Anonymous said...

Michael said....

"I really think CBS will look bad the the writers guild if they didn't they bring in an actress and just let her go. It is not her fault. She has still room on the show i hate to see this good person out of a job because CBS made a mess."

Michael, that is called show business. It happens all of the time in TV and movie circles. Actors get hired, fired, rehired, refired, etc. The same feelings of sadness that you feel about Nichols potentially losing her job is the same that people felt about the way that AJ was fired for no reason at all and the way that Paget was basically pushed out. Join the club.

Jessica said...

Eleven, Oh I loved that scene in the Chinese restaurant too. JJ is my absolute favorite but Hotch is my 2nd favorite. So that scene is high on my favorites list because the Hotch smile is so rare that when it does happen, like it did in that scene in the Chinese restaurant, it is just a beautiful moment. I have greatly missed JJ's presence on the team. Her compassion, her strong feminine presence. She showed that you can be a successful woman in a male dominated field while still retaining the essence of woman. Perhaps that's why I cannot warm up to the Seaver character. Though I do agree with you that she feels odd within the team. She also seems so inconsistent not to mention rejected by the fans. I think it is past time to raise the white flag and scrap that character. First a traumatized newbie. Now all of a sudden a full fledged kickass FBI agent. Sorry but badass female FBI agents are a dime a dozen on crime shows. JJ was unique. Beautiful. Woman. I am so happy that CBS is going to bring her back. I haven't posted on this board in quite some time and only came back when I heard the news about her return. I am beyond excited, thrilled and happy!!! I hope that they will also renew the contracts for Morgan and Hotch as well. JJ and Morgan interactions were rare and I would love to see more of that. I absolutely LOVE JJ and Hotch interactions. That plane scene between the two of them in the episode with the kids who were strangling themselves made me bawl like a baby. Talk about great TV. I am excited to have the team back the way it was. Thank you thank you CBS, producers, and writers for making this happen. You have made this long-time fan extremely happy.

Eleven said...

Oh Gubegirl, i thank thee! The Hotch hate kinda hit me like a truck. Weird, but i'll let it be. I was thinking how i'd describe each of the characters in two words and it hit me why this team is (was) so perfect. The sum of their parts is equal to perfection. Rossi (devil may care attitude, practical wisdom), Morgan (fierce loyalty), Prentiss (directness and chutzpah), JJ (generosity, humaneness), Hotch (righteousness, empathy), Garcia (Garcia Garcia) and Reid (ohhhh Reid). What's the downside ;-)

sf81387 said...

sf81387, so was the fact that Reid slept on the plane ride home what they are saying was the resoluton of the headache story line? That is what I kind of thought myself as Reid said that his headaches had been casuing him to not be able to fall asleep, and in some measure, I believe the headaches were being caused by stress.

Maggie, that was basically how I read it when they showed him sleeping on the plane. That what was going on with him was psychosomatic. That he had worked himself up to the point of neurotically believing he had inherited his mother's gene and that by finally opening up to someone and admitting the fear it relieved his symptoms and allowed him to relax about it. The headaches probably are stress related or maybe the boy just needs better glasses. ; )

Anonymous said...

I kind of feel like the writers and producers are listening to us.

I liked seeing the team our at the beginning. I can eve see how they would have invited the new girl although that scene would have been so much better with JJ or Prentiss. I loved the Morgan/Reid interaction that they seem to bring back in the last few episodes. Morgan is going back to his playful self. The storyline was well done with lots of profiling. I liked that the profiling is what told the story rather than just watching the unsub and learning about it through him. I didn't even have a problem with Hotch asking Seaver to come in with him to distract the unsub while Rossi shot him (so cool that they utilized Rossi). I don't think the writing was flawed when it came to Seaver in this episode but rather that Nichols plays this character in a very flat way. I don't think that she is a bad actress but I do think she doesn't play this role well. I think the same about Forrest Whitaker and Janine Garafalo on the spin-off - both great actors but horrible in those roles. I can see how the writers are now trying to work with what they have with Seaver but I'm sorry to say, she just has no chemistry on this show. I have really tried to like her but she just bores me.

I'm so excited that JJ may come back. I don't think I'd be able to contain my hapiness if Prentiss came back as well.

The only thing I'm kind of disappointed in is that they have dropped Reid's headaches. There could have been some potential here. He's such an interesting and complex character that I feel like lately they're not taking advantage of this like they could. MGG also plays the role really well. Everyone except Nichols really portray their characters well.

Eleven said...

Yep, the Reid headache thing, if it has already ended, would be a damp squib. I wish someone could think of a strong storyline with that. and what is hotch's big secret that dunkle refers to in that chat? hotch tieless? shall i reach for my inhaler? ooff it's hard to be a hotch fan. although i want him to be happy, tg does angst so well that i'm in a quandary over what i want. the choices we are faced with, man.

Pat said...

Michael, what do you consider a chance? I truly want to know because you keep telling us to give RN/Seaver a chance. She's been in 10 or 11 episodes now. How many will it take for the 'chance' period to be over? Since networks often order series in 13 episode blocks, it must be the barometer needed to decide whether a show is good or not, but often shows are pulled before the 13th episode mark because people just don't like it.

So, I'm interested in your definition of chance. When you tune into a new show and it doesn't grab you, how many weeks do you keep going back to give it a 'chance'? I doubt that you keep tuning in week after week to watch something you don't like. So why should we be asked to support a character week after week that doesn't engage us?

You say RN has fans and you are definitely one of them. Since the Seaver supporters seem unable to give concrete reasons why they support this character so much, I can only assume it's because they are fans of the actress that they are so adamant in her defense. Which is fine. I originally tuned in to CM because I enjoyed Mandy Patinkin's work, but I stayed because the other cast and characters drew me in. Now I find I much prefer JM's Rossi than I ever did Gideon. The same with PB replacing LG. However with RN, I'm not enjoying it. Unlike many of the posters I have never seen RN in anything before so she was a completely new actress to me and I had no preconceived bias either way, therefore my reaction to the Seaver character is totally based on the character and the actress' portrayal of her. I find both lacking So how long does this chance period last?

LaShawna said...

No one knows RN's final status for season 7, but if she is not asked back, this would certainly not be the first time this has happened on shows. Veteran shows frequently introduce new characters and some of them work out and some of them don't. Grey's Anatomy introduced a slew of new characters last year, and not all of them were well-received. So much so, that the most unpopular ones were killed off in the season finale. When CSI: Miami hired Adam Rodriguez back last year, they fired his replacement Eddie Cibrian. When Lauren Lee Smith's character on CSI: LV wasn't working out, they sent her on her merry way. SVU introduced Adam Beach for season 9 (?) and wrote him off at the end of the season. The point is, that there is ample precedence for this sort of maneuver. Do fans of Ashley have to blindly accept it? No, just like we didn't blindly accept AJ and Paget's firing or the introduction of Ashley. But then you better start that campaign to keep her. To keep an actor or not has nothing to do with fairness, but how things are working out on the show or what direction they want to push the show. If there is substantial negative fan reaction, networks and producers have to seriously consider whether or not to keep characters. It is standard practice.

Optika said...

Seaver is just to badly written and too inconsistently written to make sense overall and should be transferred to some other unit.
Really looking forward to the Jim Clemete episode and the last few eps of the season. I think that AJ will come back, as will Thomas Gibson and Shemar Moore. Paget will probably come back in some capacity as well.
Great job to the wrters of last nights ep and looking forward to Erica Messer taking over as showrunner. Please wrok on consistency though.

Anonymous said...

Seaver still doesnt show anything new but she was bearable in this episode. Hotch didnt need her at the end though.

CM fan girl said...

I dont think anyone would be sorry to see Seaver go if they had to make a chioce between her and the original season 5 cast.

Great episode overall except for Seaver's last five minutes. WHy Hotch brought her in is stupid and ooc for him.

Please TG and SM and AS and Paget please come back and stay forever!

Karen said...

Two things bothered me in this episode.

First, I felt as if the new blonde is being shoved at us as a substitute for JJ and Emily, and I'm feeling very resentful of that. She just does not fit in to this role as a credible member of the team. She doesn't have a strong enough personality to function as a BAU operative. Her interaction with the unsub was not believable. For lack of a better word, she seems to soft and gentle for her roll and way too inexperienced as a new agent.

Secondly, the ending scene with Crause left me feeling WTF?! She has been on Hotch's case for years. Why now suddenly out of nowhere trust him to step into her shoes? I think she has a medical issue.

So, Criminal Minds producers here are my demands; Get rid of Fluffy and bring back JJ and Emily!

Paget fan said...

How exactly is Seaver Sigourney Weaver ass kicking tough? First the Clarice Starling ripoff references and now this?
Never seen her kick ass or really be good at anything other than being a prime expample of bad writing, inconsistencies, ripoffs, misinformation and medocre acting and having things shaken out of her.


Rewatching The Stranger now. DId anyone notice that Garcia is always all over Morogn every chance she gets, kinda inapporiate considering she has Kevin.

ALso really intrigued by Hotch and Strauss's dynamic. Wonder whats going on.

I wonder what next season holds.

sdwally said...

"Michael said...
why Seaver could be great.
Give her a chance all new kids need a break. No exception with Seaver. like Rick says"


Rick's chat took place prior to the announcement of AJ Cook's possible return. Although I'm sure he supports and would write for all the characters; it would strike me as very odd for CBS to continue with 8 regulars (if Paget returns), when 7 were too many.


In addition, it seems to me it would be a marketing/promotional nightmare for a show to have two women who look so similar that it's hard to tell them apart unless they're next to one another. I think that has been one of the major flaws in CM's introduction of the character, requiring that she be in JJ's likeness. Rachel is brunette or redhead, and if they had kept her as such, the insult would not have been as great. But the producers wanted a hybrid clone; and they really shortchanged Nichols because many fans resented it. In addition, the writers undermined the character by developing such a contrived background, then created a storyline that betrayed the usefulness of her lineage. Why waste the audience's time setting up the serial-killer daddy storyline; then tell us she was insulated from it to the point where she had to ask Reid to help her fill in the gaps. The scripting of the story immediately sabotaged the character's usefulness.


After it was understood that the character had no personal insights into her daddy's attrocities, the audience is left to evaluate the merits of character's usefulness and effectiveness. In Seaver's case, the writer once again undermined the character by making her an inexperienced cadet who later disobeyed a direct order, which nearly got her killed. Instead of becoming a potential shining star, Seaver became an albatross that weighed down the team and became a distraction for the series. And Nichol's doesn't help herself with her presentation of the character.


The Seaver's experimentis built on a flawed premise, which failed due to major miscalculations and faulty implementation of the storyline. Based on the disruptions to the cast and the negativity surrounding the character; it probably would be unwise to continue with this experiment beyond this season. And to make matters worse, CM is already too crowded. Fans already complain about their favorites not having enough screen time. I know I do when it comes to Hotch.

Anonymous said...

sdwally,

Rachel's hair as you see it on the show now is her natural color. AJ, in fact, is the one who dyes her hair.

Loren said...

Haha Michael do you not watch any other television show? Or did you watch this before RN? Because the mere fact that they fired too actresses who both have a very positive fan base on a successful show out of the blue is far more wrong than firing an actress who is very clearly not liked hardly at all. RN fans are few and far between. I have been with this show from the beginning and yes, the new people are always slightly resented at first, but it usually goes away after a couple episodes. This couldn't be further from the case with Ashley Seaver.

The only reason I can think of as to why they are holding on so tightly to a character who is sooo disliked is the fact that we suffered the biggest blow yet with the loss of Paget and AJ that they may be thinking it'll take longer to accept RN than normal. Otherwise, they are being ridiculously stupid keeping her.

I do hope they get rid of her and if not, they sure hope AJ and Paget come back as they will certainly distract from the horrible character they created.

I love this show and have for years but lately, I've been finding it harder to watch because of how much I detest this character and how much she is SHOVED down our throats.

dear cbs said...

A copy of the letter I just sent to CBS:

Dear CBS,

I am a 23-year old female from Chicago, IL. I watched "Criminal Minds" from the very beginning of the first season. However, as the show went on, my life got busier, and quite frankly the show got boring and formulaic. I made less of an effort to watch it every week, and by the end of last season I pretty much wasn't watching it at all.

The first episode I watched this season was when I heard the show was bringing in a new character. I wanted to see if the new character would mix things up a little and make the show more interesting. Since Ashley Seaver was introduced, "Criminal Minds" has been back on my appointment television schedule.

While I liked the other characters of "Criminal Minds," I never felt like I could relate to them very much. They were older than me, and ran like well-oiled machines. Now, with the introduction of a young, rookie female, I can watch the show and identify with what the character is going through. I care not at all about her qualifications- the show has always required serious suspension of disbelief. She has spent time slowly gaining her footing in an elite field, but she has moments of strength and confidence that show she has potential. This makes me want to cheer for her, since I am at a similar point of transition in my life.

I hear that AJ Cook is in talks to return to "Criminal Minds." I am not opposed to that, but I would request that Rachel Nichols not be disposed of next season. She has challenged the writers, she has challenged the other characters, and she has provided a source of identification for younger viewers. I have never been as invested in the show as I am now, and if the show goes back to exactly how it was last season, I will quickly lose interest.

Thank you for listening to my concerns.

Loren said...

Sorry, RN fans in general may not be few and far between in general, but Ashley Seaver fans are. Not that I've seen many RN fans around here but I didn't know who she was before CM anyway so I don't know about her fanbase as an actress.

Loren said...

Oh what a lovely letter. Thanks for telling me becasue I certainly want the opposing few (which is held by the majority here as well) to be seen as well.

I will now go write them a letter as well, though it will not be like yours.

Anonymous said...

Rachel's hair as you see it on the show now is her natural color. AJ, in fact, is the one who dyes her hair.

An actor's qualifications lies not in her natural hair color but in her acting abilities.

Anonymous said...

An actor's qualifications lies not in her natural hair color but in her acting abilities.

Except sdwally seems to think they dyed RN's hair to make her seem like JJ, which is just blatantly not true. I wasn't saying anything about acting, just correcting a faulty premise.

Anonymous said...

I believe you missed sdwally's premise altogether. Her point was that CBS should have mandated that the new character have a hair color other than blonde (regardless of the actor's natural hair color) so that it wouldn't be too similar to JJ. sdwally please feel free to correct me if my assumption is incorrect.

Anonymous said...

::sigh:: here is the quote from sdwally:

I think that has been one of the major flaws in CM's introduction of the character, requiring that she be in JJ's likeness. Rachel is brunette or redhead, and if they had kept her as such, the insult would not have been as great.

heyya said...

Anonymous, you are entitled to your opinion as I just read the letter you sent to CBS, and I respect what you have to say. I'm nineteen myself, so I'm also one of the "younger viewers" and I feel no connection with Seaver whatsoever. Amongst all the CM ladies, I connected the most with JJ. Most of my friends who watch CM are also in my age group, some are even younger, and we are unanimous in our condemnation of the Seaver character. I don't think it's about age, I think it's a character's ability to emote, to express, to establish a connection with its audience. Unfortunately for me, and I speak only for myself, Seaver fails in all the above categories. If CBS has a bit of sense left, they will get rid of Seaver. And bring back JJ. And hopefully Emily. I have always maintained that even if both the ladies don't come back, I want Seaver gone. The character is irredeemable.

Anonymous said...

::sigh::

requiring that she be in JJ's likeness.
Actually CBS did require Nichols to re-dye her hair blonde for the role. Nichols even tweeted about it. Shall I go and dig up her tweet for you?

Rachel is brunette or redhead,
Yes this part was incorrect.

and if they had kept her as such i.e. NOT blonde , the insult would not have been as great.

It's called reading in between the lines.

Hmm... said...

Loren, how old are you? I'm guessing 10.

Anonymous said...

Hmm: If Loren is 10 then I'm guessing you're 5.

Seaver is bad for the show said...

Here is my letter:

Dear CBS,

Last week's viewership was 3.6/13.9 mil. This week it is 3.4/13.25.

Anonymous said...

It's called, simply correcting the fact that RN's is not in fact "brunette or redhead."

Anonymous said...

Rick Dunkel's take on Seaver:

Yes, she's a rookie, but we love the idea of exploring someone who has first ahnd knowledge of what it is to live with a serial killer... Our team members study serial killers for a living... She LIVED it. I think that gives her a vital perspective that no other team member can bring. Personally, for me, I also feel like the team in some way needs her around... She is validation on a daily basis of what they fight for. We never get to stay with the families of the serial killers or with the victims... With Seaver we have the opportunity to explore the aftermath on a weekly basis.

heyya said...

oops...sorry! My post was addressed to "dear cbs" not Anonymous

Loren said...

Hmm...,

I'm 19 actually. And I respect your opinion and I do not believe anything I said was disrespectful. But seeing as how you included a letter to CBS that opposes the opinion of most of the people on this site, I saw it as a calling to do the same. It's only fair and truly, since it is the majority of the fans' opinions that this character does not fit, it seems right that this opinion is represented. Which I did just that. And I hope others do the same, regardless of their opinion because if everyone wrote in expressing their beliefs, the vast majority would still be against Ashley Seaver.

sf81387 said...

Here is my letter:

Dear CBS,

Last week's viewership was 3.6/13.9 mil. This week it is 3.4/13.25.


Yes, a decline in the first half hour was expected with the return of the mega-hit "Modern Family" on ABC. I was surprised they only lost the few that they did. The numbers were higher in the second half hour.

Anonymous said...

At this stage we have no idea whether the show is going to buckle before the campaign to get rid of Seaver. This is my last word on the subject, because I'm in danger of boring myself on the matter! They'll make up their own minds in any case.

This is just what I hope will happen.
I hope that the writers stay strong and continue to work with the ideas that they originally found challenging in the character's conception. The obstacles are large because Seaver is extremely unlikely to get a fair hearing in some quarters. It's as though nothing arrives the same as it left the page or the same as it was filmed. But that makes the challenge more interesting. It's hard with a truly demotic art to carry on with the real fire-em-up principles -- but you should try.

I disagree altogether that you can think of a book or a piece of music or a programme purely as a marketable product. This is not cornflakes. You don't need mass acceptance in this case. You need a writer with bad taste, an obsession, a bug-bear, or some driven half-wonky idea. You need someone's brain and imagination to rile the audience, or why bother making it at all? If you make a thing so palatable that there's nothing strong enough to offend, there's probably nothing left at all.

To be honest, I'm not entirely sure why they should give way. The ratings aren't dropping. Most people beyond the forums who watch the show couldn't give a tinker's cuss about the cast (except in a few notable instances, the usual suspects).

On a personal level, I'll be a little ashamed of them if they drop Nichols, unless it's demonstrably for good reasons of their own. But then I'm subtly ashamed of most of my very good friends. We're a bad lot. And we rub along alright.

Shoot me if I say another word on this matter, please.

UK viewer

dear cbs said...

Loren,

I think you are confusing me with Hmmm...

But fwiw, I considered the "Oh what a lovely letter" sarcasm to be somewhat disrespectful.

Loren said...

Dear CBS,

Apologies it came off that way and for confusing you with hmmm. It was certainly an intelligently written letter with good points, I just happen to disagree with them.

Nahla said...

Loren,

Haha Michael?
they are being ridiculously stupid keeping her?
I do hope they get rid of her?

I don't believe the Seaver character fits or ever will. And I miss JJ terribly. But your words are very harsh and mean-sprited. No one should be called stupid because of the character. And Haha sounds juvenile.

LaShawna said...

But the problem with Rick's idea, is that was not the way her background was written, from the very first episode. Her background was such that she didn't even know her father was a serial killer until he was arrested. Her father seemed like a good father to her (except for the puppy incident). She was completely blind to his depravities, and it would only be in hindsight that she would have known anything. She has to ask Reid for details on her father's killings. She couldn't even offer up any concrete ideas for the profile, beyond the "doesn't allow pets" idea. She doesn't bring any vaunted insight into the minds of serial killers, because most things that come out of her mouth are clueless questions or obvious observations.

Loren said...

Nahla,

I have no intentions of bickering with you or anyone else. Over typing, communication is lost greatly and I'm sorry 'haha' seems juvenile to you, it's just a habit with me. I say haha with everything.

As for the stupid comment, yes, stupid may not have been the best connotated word, and I'm sorry it offended you.


I'm not sure why you felt the need to call me out so much, but again, I'm sorry for seeming 'mean-spirited' I have just never seen a show try so hard to keep a character that is so clearly not right for it.

I will be sure to filter my words a bit better either way.

gubegirl said...

heyva,

Just wanted to let you know that I would have taken you to be much older. Your posts are well-put, well-worded and thought out. Opposed to so many here who rant and rave and do not even review their words prior to pressing "publish your comment."

You sound quite mature, we have blogged together before and I wanted you to know that I am impressed; I would have thought you to be something like 30ish:) not 5 not 10...LOL

But you are the same age as my son!

To the rest of you: when you are finished "discussing the epi", I would enjoy going back to discuss music. Take your time, tho', I would not want any tidbit to not be beat to death and back...

I prefer to talk here rather than argue non-stop. This is getting so old...or is it just me?

LOL!! said...

Gubebirl,

Either it's getting old, or it's you and me too!! LOL!!!

Loren said...

Heeyyy,

Okay, I know I got caught up in this angry tirade. Normally I don't, but last night's episode bothered me and got me going. This is the only place that I can rant and people know what I'm talking about so, sorry for unleashing the wrath here.

With that, I'm done.

Okay, so what is it about the music? Just that you really like it or... I'm curious? I never really notice it but now I'm curious.

Maggie said...

I agree with you Uk viewer, but what drives the "cornflakes," if you will, are the people who are buying them otherwise they wouldn't get produced. Networks aren't in the business of thinking on a creative level, they are in the business of making money and anything that has the potential to ruin that is an issue that needs to be addressed. If along the way they put out a "masterpiece," great, but their interest in that "masterpiece" is first and foremost what that "masterpiece" will generate money wise. As LaShawna pointed out earlier, shows like Grey's Anatomy that, are successful in their own r,ight have immediately taken action when they recognize that a character, or two, is not working because they don't want to take any chances that a grave issue may arise as a result of that charcter, or two. The same with the CSI shows she referenced. Again, I don't know what their line of thinking is in regard to this character, but there is enough there I think for them to closely examine whether it is a good move to proceed with this character come season 7.

The comments that are made in non- forum places, in a large measure, do speak to the casting changes. Many people in those places don't know why AJ and Paget are no longer on the show, but they do not like it, and many of those same people do not like the Seaver character. Those are the places that for me are most revealing to me because they don't have the background that most of us have here, yet, they echo the same sentiment as many here. That is very telling and something that the network has to consider as they decide what to do moving forward.

Anonymous said...

Maggie,

mmmmffff!
I'm in danger of getting shot (by my own request), but thanks for your reply and I have read you. You make a good argument.

:o)

UK viewer

gubegirl said...

Loren, I do not know if you are new to this blog but we have been talking about the idea of submitting a list of our favorite songs that have been featured on CM in the past 6 years to CBS for the purpose of having a CM soundtrack.

There have been some really memorable ones and after an epi, you hear the song and go "Wow!" Maybe you never even heard the song before,m but you will never forget it. Or maybe it was a great OLD song like Johnny Cash or AC/DC. etc.

Then, in trying to move past the anti-Seaver crap (I am speaking of the bickering) we got to talking music and several fans told me of music that they like (again old or new) that brings to mind a CM character or just a theme or mood that might be good for CM's FUTURE use. I am on the look-out for new artists that would be appropriate CM material especially but there are lots of old songs that are quite perfect as well. New artists are more likely to want to participate where some established groups may demand residuals, etc to be a part of a soundtrack OR their recording contracts may not even allow it.

We have found this to be a healthy and fun outlet and even kidded about it being fundraiser for CBS to re-hire our old faves back, etc. NOT. Just fun. but I am compiling the two lists and intend to submit them when I have enuf.

If you are interested, go for it!

You can also Google or Bing CM music and see the list of music used if you can't remember the name of something you liked.

TTFN.

Seaver should Stay said...

With last nights episode seaver should definitely stay even if AJ came back. There is so much meat on Seaver after that episode

Optika said...

Both Aj and Rachel are both natural blondes either way who go blonder. Aj's natural color was seen in Higher Gorund and Rachel's was seen in everything until Star Trek or Gi Joe, whichever she filmed first.

Also, I don't see the show keeping both Seaver and JJ if AJ returns becuase of all the aforementioned reason.

I agree with LaShawna, Rick Dunkle has great ideas but Seaver's background was written so that any supposed insight she has now is cancelled out by that first episode. To further prove that Seaver has no unique insight whatsoever, in the episode With Firends Like These, at the end of the show when she was talking with Morogn, Seaver said " I used to think all serial killers were monsters". That sentence alone proves that she should really be transferred to sex crimes or some other department.

All in all, despite Hotch acting out of character and brining Seaver into negotiate, it was a great episode.

Anonymous said...

Even a lot of the articles mentioning AJ coming back say that Seaver isnt well recieved. They cant be getting that from just one source like only this blog. I've read some negative critics reviews of Seaver as well.

Anonymous said...

Those articles do not mention that Seaver is not well-received. They just say the news does not bode well for the character. And I have seen zero negative critical reviews about the character.

jennifer Monahan said...

Well the reviews for her in this episode is positive now. She is really coming into her own now

Blimey Limey said...

My online back-up source came up with the episode surprisingly sharpish!

Positive:

The "whodunnit" nature of the episode. Enough of the unsub to get the flavour of what he's like and what he does, but not so much to stop me trying to solve the crime before they did (I didn't beat Reid this time - ha!) as the episode progressed.

Creepy deluxe - thanks for targeting brunette women who live alone. Hockey stick by the door, anyone?

Plenty of profiling; it took them a while to work out what was going on, rather than miraculously getting everything 100% correct immediately.

Reid & Morgan paired up in the field, with the latter teasing the former. Like the CM of old, they work well together and add welcome dash of humour.

Neutral:

Seaver. Didn't mind her during the episode, although at the end I was surprised Hotch asked her to accompany him. I get that he was trying to offer her experience in the field, although there's not much room for error in a hostage situation.

Strauss. She didn't seem as "fierce" as usual. Perhaps whatever's going on with her behind the scenes is diluting her venom? I wondered about the end scene - giving Hotch a cover story of TG doesn't sign a new contract? Although maybe she's actually admitting Hotch & his team do a damn fine job, but being Strauss she can't do that directly? I apologise for not explaining what I mean that well, it's quite hard to articulate.

Negative:

Reid's headaches. I can see this storyline being brushed under the rug like the drug issue in season 2. It needs clearing up, one way or another.

No Sergio - if I start an online petition, do you reckon CBS will bring him back for a guest appearance?! All joking aside, I would love to see that one of the team adopted him. All you'd need to see is a few seconds of that person getting back home from a harrowing case, opening the door and the cat comes running to them. It would be nice to see Reid adopt Sergio, I'd imagine looking after Prentiss' cat would bring him some degree of comfort - assuming the "Reid Effect" doesn't affect felines.

Other points:

Scream. For once I didn't mind a film being "ripped off" (not that it was really ripped off as such, but it reminded me of it). I thought the scene where the four of them left the cinema and Morgan was being teased for squealing "like a pre-pubescent girl" (go Reid!) was funny, especially after seeing Scream back in the day and having a similar conversation when we left the cinema. My (thankfully now ex) boyfriend reacted à la Morgan during the film, although sadly that was where the resemblance ended. ;-)

Apparently my Mum had to pause the episode to laugh when the kid's step mother opened the kitchen cupboards and everything was lined up. I always place tins/packets/bottles facing forwards so you can read the label more easily and she's teased me about it for years (as have others). Didn't know it was the mark of a sociopath.

Be nice to me, people...

Karen said...

This is going to sound really random but I think CBS should have a contest for fans where we can make up an unsub for them to use in the show. I think that'd be pretty awesome. I highly doubt they'd do it but it'd still be a fun contest.

jennifer Monahan said...

It is speculations i think they can work her into the cast.
It worked in Lauren. It will work for the show and would be the right thing for CBS to do with all their negativity surrounding the AJ and Paget sacking earlier

sf81387 said...

I don't think Hotch was acting out of character. He needed a softer, less threatening presence than himself to help calm the unsub so he took Seaver with him. It was no different than any other time he's used any of the other female agents in this manner and it was certainly no sillier than him relying on JJ to negotiate with Billy Flynn or relying on Garcia to get the goth kid to open up or getting Prentiss to flirt with the Fox. All of whom admitted, "I've never done this before". There's a first time for all of them.

That said, there was nothing remarkable about Seaver last night, but there was nothing annoying about her either. As always, she's just kind of there and doesn't really have any kind of distinct personality yet. If the other two actresses are coming back I don't imagine she'll get to stick around long enough to develope a personality. She and Reid did look pretty cute together though. : )

Marli said...

Just passed by to see if this place was still on fire.

It is!

See, CM PTB, what you guys are doing with this new character? You are breaking up the fandom.

Sameera said...

Anonymous, there have been various articles throughout the months in different places on the net where people comment, that is what I think the other Anonymous is mentioning (is that correct?). Not sure about show reviews, haven't seen any other than fan reviews of episodes and those generally tend to skew against the Seaver character.

Jennifer M., I don't think the majority of the people, from what I have personally read not just here but in other places would react negatively to the Seaver character being written out, certainly not at the level of what was seen with AJ and Paget, no where near that level.

Sameera said...

Marli, what you stated, I think, is one of the things that they have to consider in determining whether to keep this character on the show or not. I know that played a major role in the decision to remove the CSI Miami characters Tara and Cardoza.

Blimey Limey said...

Also:

Fab news about AJ Cook possibly returning and hopefully PB will be back too (although I don't want to wish ill luck on her new show). All we need is CBS to give TG & SM the contracts they deserve and life will be peachy(ish).

@ Gubegirl. I see they were "on your manor" (as we say). Do you know if they filmed the external scenes in San Diego, or was it a Los Angeles neighbourhood pretending to be San Diego?

Blimey Limey said...

@ Karen

I love your idea of "design an unsub"!

Something to do with eyeballs (I know it's already been done, but it makes me shudder) or pulling out teeth/fingernails/toenails.

I warned you all to be nice, but you wouldn't listen...

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