Here's How A.J. Cook Really Feels About All the Swearing on Criminal Minds: Evolution
What the BLEEP!?
The most recent episodes of Criminal Minds sound and resemble nothing like fans of the TV series have ever witnessed before. And, it's something that the actors of the show are also starting to swear off on.
For the past 15 years, Criminal Minds has been a hallmark of CBS due to its dark, compelling storylines. Despite running on network TV, the series has been able to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable on television. Nonetheless, Criminal Minds – like other network shows of the era – have always been confined to the strict standards and rules of television and restricted to what was allowed under the guidelines of a TV-14 rating.
Until now.
Criminal Minds: Evolution recently converted to Paramount+, a streaming provider, which is not regulated or subjected to the same standards as traditional TV shows. Accordingly, the iconic TV series has radically shifted in language and the stars of the show are beginning to comment on it.
A.J. Cook, who assumes the role of Special Agent JJ Jareau on Criminal Minds: Evolution, considers it a good thing. The 44-year-old actress has been an advocate for streaming services in the past since they generally grant more artistic freedom for the show's creators. As a result, converting Criminal Minds from network TV to streaming allows the show to present a realistic version of the psychopaths and serial killers it depicts.
"It's awesome that we're [using swear words now]," Cook revealed to Collider. The actress explained that after years of the cast having to watch their mouths on CBS, being able to utter dirty words was refreshing, if not a culture shock.
Cook particularly recalls a moment in the new season of Criminal Minds where Rossi (Joe Mantegna) is having a bad day, and accidentally drops the F-word in front of his children.
Nevertheless, Cook finds the language fitting and appropriate for the show: "I like the edgier version of [Criminal Minds]," he confessed.
While not everyone may welcome the filthy language, Cook insists it makes for better TV. It's been supported by strong viewership as Criminal Minds continues to thrive a decade and a half after its first episode ran in 2005. There is no doubt that the TV franchise has benefited from a switch to streaming after concluding its time with CBS in 2020.
Episodes of Criminal Minds: Evolution are currently available on Paramount+. The new season revolves around a series of crimes committed around the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.