Why JJ left Criminal Minds? Yes, we are talking about the character Jennifer “JJ” Jareau, portrayed by A.J. Cook. The actress was associated with the CBS crime drama for quite a long time, till Season 6.
JJ didn’t introduce herself as the profiler but as one of the significant members of the team. Why did A.J. Cook exit suddenly? Before getting into further discussion, let’s look at the Criminal Minds plot and her character too!
Created by Jeff Davis, Criminal Minds focus on the team which analyses the dangerous people behind the misconduct. Before striking, the team investigates, concludes, and saves the nation.
This police procedural drama series made its debut back in 2005, with Season 16 ongoing at present. Looking for the next one? Well, Episode 6, titled- True Conviction, is set to release on 12 January 2023. Talking about JJ, she served as the FBI BAU Supervisory Special Agent.
Coming back to JJ leaving the Criminal Minds after playing for so many years was disappointing to many. What happened? Did A.J. Cook have a feud with the cast? Or was it something else? If you are looking for the reason behind JJ’s departure, here is what we know.
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A.J Cook As JJ Left Criminal Minds: Reason Revealed
With the news of JJ’s departure from Criminal Minds, many people wondered if she was dead. No, the character was alive and pretty much fine.
The major reason behind JJ or A.J. Cook’s real exit from Criminal Minds was not that much drama. It was all because of the production’s financial issues. The studio let go of the actress, seeking cost reduction. Many people claimed it to be unfair to her.
However, A.J. Cook was not the only one. Because of the same reason, Paget Brewster was also made to leave Criminal Minds.
Several rumors circulated that A.J. Cook had “creative differences,” and that was pretty much a standard reason. We wonder if we can address that as a “feud”. It was also reported that the network was not at all nice to women (specifically).
But, JJ’s departure from Criminal Minds was not for a long period. It was quite brief. That was meant to be short-lived. Financial issues couldn’t be the ultimate reason for the significant cast members leaving the show permanently. Why? Because it would badly impact the story. Yes! A.J. Cook or JJ, whoever you say, returned to the show.
We saw JJ during the Season 7 premiere of Criminal Minds. She joined the team but with a new position as a full-time profiler. Earlier, she was promoted to the Pentagon. That was how her short-time exit was shown in the series. It was made mainly because of the immense love and support of the fans. In other words, it worked like a silver lining for her.
We may say that it was not A.J. Cook’s decision to leave Criminal Minds. Despite not receiving kind behavior from the network, she did her job pretty professionally and nicely.
Concerning her exit, JJ said, “You think, ‘What did I do?’ It’s been a rollercoaster ride, but I just had to put one foot forward and keep moving.”
Did you know that there was also partiality? Wait, what? Yes! Well, that’s everywhere! No offense! One of the other Criminal Minds cast was paid more than what A.J. Cook and one other star used to get. To be more precise, it was double. And there came the need for cost reduction. How ridiculous! What’s your say on this?
Best Wishes to A.J Cook for the upcoming days of her life. You may give JJ or A.J. Cook a following on her Instagram account for more updates. Nothing stopped her from growing as an actress and an artist.
Also Read: How To Watch Criminal Minds Season 1 to 15? The Popular Mystery Series
