“Criminal Minds” has been one of television’s most gripping crime dramas, captivating audiences since it first aired in 2005. With over 15 seasons and a revival (Criminal Minds: Evolution), the show has showcased a stellar ensemble cast. Let’s take a nostalgic look at the main cast members – what they looked like when they were younger and how they’ve evolved over the years.
1. Mandy Patinkin (Jason Gideon)
Then:
In the early 1980s, Mandy Patinkin was already making waves with roles in Yentl and The Princess Bride. With his thick curly hair and intense eyes, he had a commanding presence.
Now:
Patinkin now sports a more refined look, with a gray beard and glasses, often seen in more dramatic roles like Homeland.
- Young Mandy Patinkin (circa 1980s)
- Patinkin after Criminal Minds
2. Thomas Gibson (Aaron Hotchner)
Then:
In the early ’90s, Thomas Gibson starred in Dharma & Greg with a clean-cut look, charming smile, and boy-next-door appeal.
Now:
Today, Gibson maintains a polished, mature appearance, recognizable for his intense portrayal of BAU Unit Chief Aaron Hotchner.
- Gibson in Dharma & Greg
- Gibson during later Criminal Minds seasons
3. Matthew Gray Gubler (Dr. Spencer Reid)
Then:
Matthew Gray Gubler began his career as a model before becoming the quirky genius Dr. Reid. Early photos show a youthful Gubler with floppy hair and a lanky frame.
Now:
Still a fan favorite, Gubler now has a more rugged look, but retains his eccentric, artistic personality.
- Gubler modeling in the early 2000s
- Gubler as Reid in final Criminal Minds season
4. Shemar Moore (Derek Morgan)
Then:
Shemar Moore rose to fame on The Young and the Restless in the late 1990s. He had a youthful, energetic charm and athletic build.
Now:
Moore now stars in S.W.A.T. and still radiates charisma and strength, with a more seasoned and bold appearance.
- Moore in The Young and the Restless
- Moore in Criminal Minds Season 11
5. Kirsten Vangsness (Penelope Garcia)
Then:
Before Criminal Minds, Vangsness was involved in local theater and short films. Her quirky style and bubbly personality made her instantly recognizable.
Now:
She’s grown into a style icon for the nerd chic aesthetic, embracing bold glasses and colorful outfits.
- Early headshot of Vangsness
- Vangsness as Garcia in the final season
6. A.J. Cook (Jennifer “JJ” Jareau)
Then:
A.J. Cook was a teen star in the 1990s, appearing in The Virgin Suicides and Final Destination 2. She had a fresh-faced, girl-next-door look.
Now:
Cook continues to embody grace and poise, with a refined but still youthful appearance on Criminal Minds: Evolution.
- A.J. Cook in her early film roles
- Cook in Criminal Minds: Evolution (2023)
7. Paget Brewster (Emily Prentiss)
Then:
Paget Brewster was known for her role in Friends as Kathy, with a stylish and edgy 90s look.
Now:
She now embraces a powerful and intelligent persona, often with short dark hair and a commanding presence.
- Brewster in Friends
- Brewster in Criminal Minds: Evolution
