Thu May 22 23:30:00 UTC 2025: ## “Criminal Minds: Evolution” Shocks Fans with Heartbreaking Loss, A.J. Cook Speaks Out

**BAU grieves the loss of a beloved character in emotional new episode.**

In a shocking turn of events, the latest episode of “Criminal Minds: Evolution” saw the devastating death of Will LaMontagne Jr., played by Josh Stewart, husband to Jennifer “JJ” Jareau (A.J. Cook). The episode, titled “Time to Say Goodbye,” follows JJ as she grapples with the sudden loss and attempts to remain strong for her family and team, culminating in a heart-wrenching eulogy delivered at his funeral.

A.J. Cook, in a recent interview, expressed her own grief over the storyline. “I’m still mad,” she admitted, acknowledging the significant impact Will’s death will have on JJ’s character arc.

The episode featured a poignant return from Matthew Gray Gubler as Dr. Spencer Reid, who was there to support JJ during the difficult time. Cook emphasized the importance of Reid’s presence, stating that his bond with JJ was clear even with minimal dialogue. “It felt like something major was missing if we didn’t have Spence,” Cook said. “Like a true friend does, you show up in those moments.”

Cook also discussed the complexity of filming the emotional scenes, particularly the church sequence where JJ finally breaks down. Her own sons played JJ’s children in the episode, adding another layer of depth to the already emotionally charged atmosphere.

According to Cook, the season will explore the various stages of grief and how JJ will learn to cope with her loss, finding healing in unexpected places. “We’re going to see JJ maybe find some healing and find healing through some unusual places and through some unusual people,” she hinted.

The episode also featured a touching scene between JJ and David Rossi (Joe Mantegna), who offers his support based on his own experience with loss. Furthermore, it provided closure to the storyline involving Will’s mother, Connie (Linda Lavin).

Cook highlighted the importance of Will’s character as JJ’s rock and the constant presence in her life. “To have that gone is to have a piece of herself gone,” she explained. While the loss is devastating, Cook hopes the storyline will serve as a tribute to single mothers and those who have lost loved ones.

She also noted that JJ’s natural defense mechanism is to delve into her work, but she will have to confront her grief eventually, with it shaping the person she is moving forward.

New episodes of “Criminal Minds: Evolution” are available to stream Thursdays on Paramount+.

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