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After 15 seasons, “Criminal Minds” will conclude its run on CBS



The crime drama was renewed by the network, where it has always performed consistently, for a final, 10-episode season. Filming will take place in the immediate pursuit of season 14. The series tells the story of a specialized group of FBI agents who profile criminals, attempting to unravel their psychology in order to anticipate their next moves.

Of course, as with most dramas of its ilk, the series also delves into the personal lives of its characters, dealing with their struggles as they grapple with the heaviness of their career. The show has become known for featuring a quote at the beginning of each episode, recited by one of the aforementioned characters, which has some bearing on the theme or events the episode depicts.

Once the final episodes have aired, the entire series will have spanned 325 episodes. That formidable number easily allows it to rank among some of the longest scripted dramas in television history. Over that time, its ensemble cast has included Mandy Patinkin, Joe Mantegna, Thomas Gibson, Lola Glaudini, Paget Brewster, Aisha Tyler, and many others.

“Criminal Minds” was created by Jeff Davis, although the current showrunner is executive producer Erica Tasser. It has suffered from a few controversies in its long time on the air, including an altercation with a producer which resulted in actor Thomas Gibson being fired. There have also been rumors, according to Variety, that Greg St. Johns, the series’ director of photography, engaged in abusive behavior but was allowed to continue working on the show nonetheless.

Messer, who has promised a more serialized season with “formidable villains,” has a pod deal with CBS, meaning that she will continue to create original dramas with the network.