Josh Stewart, known for his role as Will LaMontagne Jr. in Criminal Minds: Evolution, has announced his exit from the series. Stewart’s portrayal of Will began in season two of the original Criminal Minds series, with his character becoming a significant presence due to his romantic relationship with Special Agent JJ Jareau, played by A.J. Cook. Their on-screen love story has been a central plot point, with elements mirroring real life, such as Will’s cancer storyline reflecting a similar scare experienced by Cook’s actual husband.
Showrunner Erica Messer suggested a positive prognosis for Will in the upcoming season. However, whether Stewart’s departure was premeditated or personal remains uncertain. Nonetheless, Criminal Minds: Evolution, which premiered in 2022, continues to feature its original cast including Joe Mantegna, Paget Brewster, Kirsten Vangsness, Aisha Tyler, and Adam Rodriguez. The show streams on Paramount+, with the original Criminal Minds series available on Hulu.
