Penelope and J.J. aren’t leaving Criminal Minds anytime soon. Deadline reports Kirsten Vangsness and AJ Cook have just signed a new deal for season 13 of the CBS TV show.
Earlier, we reported that the long-time cast members were locked in negotiations for the upcoming season because they were seeking salary parity with their male co-stars, Joe Mantegna and Matthew Gray Gubler. Vangsness and Cook also sought parity in 2013 after being paid less than half of what their male co-stars earned. They eventually earned a raise but did not achieve equal pay with Mantegna, Gubler, and then cast member Shemar Moore.
Now, it looks like Vangsness and Cook have finally struck a favorable deal with Criminal Minds‘ producers, ABC TV Studios and CBS TV Studios. The two will star in season 13, which is set to debut this fall.
However, while Vangsness and Cook are back, not everyone is returning to Criminal Minds. As we reported earlier, cast member Damon Gupton is leaving the show ahead of season 13.
What do you think? Do you watch Criminal Minds? Are you glad both Vangsness and Cook are back for season 13?
I love all the CM Women!! Criminal Minds is undoubtedly one of my Favorite Shows!! The writers are so phenomenal that I actually feel as if I’m one of the characters myself! Although Dr. Reid is a living doll.. I do miss the bantering between…”Baby Girl and Chocolate Thunder”!!!! ☺️ Please let Penelope, Alvarez & Roxy continue to build a fun loving relationship!! I look forward to more classy entertainment!!
Yeah! They are pillars of this show. IT never would have been the same without them.
I am so glad Kirsten and AJ are not leaving they are part of the backbone that keeps the show so great. So thank you CBS for doing the right thing. I wonder who they will get to replace Gupton.
Shemar left b/c he wanted 2 Not b/c of CBS! Hate 2 c anybody let go, But if thats what CBS had 2 do 2 give JJ & Penelope their raise They did the right thing! They have been w/ show a long Time & JJ has already given so much 2 the show! CBS is lucky she has came bk ea time! I’m so glad they r staying! They r also a big part of show! Along w/Dave,Spencer,& Emily (She also gave up for the show & they finally brought her back! But shouldnt have been 2 replace Aaron(STILL… Read more »