The BAU is heading into its most emotional—and most unpredictable—chapter yet. Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 4 has officially begun teasing its cast lineup, and fans are reeling from a devastating loss and celebrating long-awaited returns. The new season promises deep character drama, shocking twists, and a reshuffling of the team that will change everything.

A Heartbreaking Farewell That No One Saw Coming

Sources close to the production confirm that Season 4 will open by acknowledging a tragic loss within the BAU family. While details remain tightly guarded, insiders hint that the death will hit the team “on a personal, intimate level,” suggesting that this isn’t a random case-related casualty—it’s someone the agents deeply cared about.

The emotional aftermath will reportedly serve as the catalyst for several cast changes, new story arcs, and unexpected character developments. Fans should prepare for raw grief, heavy tension, and a shaken team forced to rebuild from the ashes.

But It’s Not All Sadness—Major Returns Are Confirmed

In a move that has sent the fandom into celebration mode, Criminal Minds: Evolution is bringing back multiple fan-favorite characters for Season 4.

Here’s who’s stepping back into the BAU spotlight:

★ Paget Brewster as Emily Prentiss

The BAU’s fearless Unit Chief returns full-time after last season’s cliffhangers. Rumors suggest Prentiss will face intense personal pressure as she tries to hold the team together after the devastating loss.

★ Joe Mantegna as David Rossi

Rossi is sticking around—and the writers hint that this may be one of his most emotional seasons yet. Expect him to grapple with grief, guilt, and a case that hits uncomfortably close to home.

★ Aisha Tyler as Tara Lewis

Lewis will reportedly take on a heavier leadership role this season, stepping into the emotional void and becoming one of the anchors of the BAU.

★ Kirsten Vangsness as Penelope Garcia

Yes, the heart of the team is returning. Garcia brings warmth, hope, and her iconic humor—but insiders say she’ll face surprising challenges of her own.

★ A Shocking Return: A Former BAU Agent Steps Back In

Producers have confirmed that a former cast member—one who left the series years ago—is returning for a multi-episode storyline.
While the identity hasn’t been officially revealed, fan speculation points heavily toward Matthew Gray Gubler (Dr. Spencer Reid) or Shemar Moore (Derek Morgan).

Whichever one returns, their comeback is expected to tie directly into the tragic loss that haunts Season 4.

New Threats. New Unsubs. New Evolution.

The writers promise that Season 4 will dive deeper into the psychological warfare between the BAU and a new breed of criminal masterminds. After the success of the “Gold Star” storyline, the series is doubling down on darker, more interconnected threats that push the team to their limits.

Cases will be more complex. Emotional stakes will be higher. And the BAU’s bond will be tested like never before.

The BAU Is Changing—Forever

With heartbreak fueling the season, long-awaited reunions bringing hope, and one enormous return still under wraps, Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 4 is shaping up to be a milestone chapter in the franchise’s history.

One thing is certain:

The BAU will never be the same again.