The Sudden Absence of Will: A Reflection on 'Criminal Minds' and the Art of Character Farewells
When a beloved character vanishes from a long-running show, it’s more than just a plot twist—it’s a cultural moment. The recent departure of William LaMontagne Jr. (Josh Stewart) from Criminal Minds: Evolution is one such instance that has left fans reeling. But what makes this particularly fascinating is how the show handled his exit. It wasn’t just a narrative choice; it was a masterclass in emotional storytelling, albeit one that raises questions about the nature of television and the bonds we form with fictional characters.
The Shock of the Sudden Exit
Will’s death in Season 18 was abrupt, to say the least. One moment he’s complaining of a migraine, the next he’s gone—a victim of a rare medical condition. Personally, I think this kind of sudden departure is both a writer’s challenge and a viewer’s nightmare. It’s jarring, yes, but it also mirrors the unpredictability of real life. What many people don’t realize is that these kinds of exits often stem from behind-the-scenes decisions, like an actor’s contract or creative shifts. In Will’s case, Josh Stewart’s departure was as unexpected for fans as it was for the character himself.
From my perspective, the show’s decision to use previously filmed footage for his final scene was both ingenious and heartbreaking. It’s a detail that I find especially interesting because it highlights the lengths to which creators will go to honor a character’s legacy. Yet, it also underscores the cold reality of television production: characters are often at the mercy of business decisions, not just storytelling needs.
The Ripple Effect of Grief
Will’s absence isn’t just felt by JJ (A.J. Cook); it’s a seismic shift for the entire BAU team. What this really suggests is that the impact of a character’s death extends far beyond their final scene. JJ’s grief becomes a central thread in Season 19, forcing her to navigate work, motherhood, and her own emotional wreckage. If you take a step back and think about it, this is where Criminal Minds shines—in its exploration of how trauma shapes its characters.
One thing that immediately stands out is how Will’s death brought back Dr. Spencer Reid (Matthew Gray Gubler) for the funeral. This raises a deeper question: Do characters ever truly leave a show, or do they linger in the emotional fabric of the narrative? In my opinion, Will’s death isn’t just a plot point; it’s a catalyst for growth, both for JJ and the series itself.
The Business of Saying Goodbye
Josh Stewart’s exit from the show is a reminder that television is as much about contracts as it is about storytelling. In a recent interview, Stewart admitted he was surprised by the decision, but he also acknowledged, “It’s business. That is the way it goes.” This candidness is refreshing, but it also highlights a broader trend in the industry: the disposable nature of characters in long-running shows.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how fans react to these departures. Will had been a fixture on Criminal Minds for nearly two decades, and his sudden death felt like a betrayal to some viewers. Personally, I think this speaks to the emotional investment we place in these characters. They become part of our lives, and when they’re taken away, it feels personal.
The Future of JJ and the BAU
So, what does Season 19 hold for JJ and her family? The show has always been about resilience, and JJ’s journey is no exception. But here’s where I speculate: Will’s death isn’t just a plot device; it’s a mirror to the audience. How do we move on from loss? Can we ever truly let go? These are the questions Criminal Minds is daring to ask, and I find that both bold and necessary.
From my perspective, the show’s willingness to explore such heavy themes is what sets it apart. It’s not just about catching the bad guys; it’s about the human cost of doing so. Will’s absence is a reminder that even in a world of fictional crime-solving, the stakes are always personal.
Final Thoughts: The Art of Letting Go
As I reflect on Will’s departure, I’m struck by how much it says about the nature of television itself. Characters come and go, but their stories—and the emotions they evoke—linger. In my opinion, Criminal Minds has handled Will’s exit with a level of respect and nuance that’s rare in the genre. It’s not just about saying goodbye; it’s about honoring what was and what could have been.
If you take a step back and think about it, this is what great storytelling does: it makes us care, even when it hurts. Will may be gone, but his legacy—and the questions his death raises—will stay with us. And that, I think, is the mark of a character who truly mattered.
