"Criminal Minds" fans were delighted when it was announced that the long-running crime drama would be revived for a 16th season titled "Evolution" and would be exclusively streaming on Paramount+. However, the show was later renewed for another season while "Evolution" was still airing. The premiere date for the 17th season has not yet been announced. The main cast members are all returning for the new season, and there is a possibility that BAU frenemy Tyler Green will also make an appearance. The showrunners have expressed their desire to bring back Special Agents Spencer Reid and Matt Simmons, but it depends on the actors' availability.

The character Elias Voit, the main villain of "Evolution," will make a return as well. The next season will revisit the mystery of the Gold Star, and the storyline will include both serialized and standalone episodes. The character Will LaMontagne Jr.'s cancer scare from the previous season was inspired by a real-life illness, and his health will continue to be a concern in the upcoming season. Emily Prentiss will also have a personal storyline this time around. Due to the ongoing writer and actor strikes, the production of the new season has been delayed, and it is uncertain when it will premiere. The second season will have 10 episodes, and currently, there is no indication that the show will be canceled.