The Best Character on Criminal Minds: A Decade of Favorites
The Best Character on Criminal Minds: A Decade of Favorites
The show Criminal Minds has captivated audiences for over a decade with its complex characters and thrilling mysteries. Picking one character as the best can be a highly controversial topic, and there are many compelling choices. Among them, one character stands out to me: Derek Morgan. However, I will also explore other favorites like Dr. Spencer Reid to provide a comprehensive look at some of the most beloved characters from the series.
The Case for Derek Morgan
Derek Morgan, played brilliantly by Jason Gavaris, is a masterful and dedicated field agent. Morgan's compassion and ability to form connections with victims and colleagues make him a key member of the BAU team. His sense of humor and strong moral compass bring dimension to the character, and his interactions with Emily Prentiss create one of the most memorable partnerships on the show. Morgan's growth throughout the series, from a tough, hardened agent to a more emotionally open and self-aware individual, is a testament to his character development.
Dr. Spencer Reid: The Enigma of the Best Character
Another excellent contender for the title of best character is Dr. Spencer Reid, played by Matthew Gray Gubler. Reid's unique mind and analytical skills make him indispensable to the BAU team. His friendship with Reid has always been one of my favorites. He is a brilliant and at times flippant adolescent in a grown man's body, which adds a layer of humor and relatability to the show. Reid's intelligence and wit keep the mysteries engaging and the narrative fast-paced. His growth from a child psychiatrist to a full-fledged profiler is both impressive and touching.
Other Excellents: Hotchner, Garcia, and Beyond
Besides Morgan and Reid, the BAU team has several other exceptional characters that make Criminal Minds a rich and captivating television series. (previously J.D.iva) praises Aaron Hotchner for his leadership and integrity. Hotchner's position as team leader gives him a deep understanding of the team's dynamics and their past struggles, making him a vital and inspiring character. Additionally, Penelope Garcia, played by Kirsten Vangsness, is an integral part of the BAU's technical analysis unit. Her resourcefulness, talent, and sarcastic sense of humor make her a standout character. These characters, among others like Jack Crawford, David Rossi, and Emily Prentiss, contribute to the overall charm and success of the show.
Other Notable Characters
As mentioned, there are several other characters that are noteworthy in their own right. Criminal Minds has introduced many characters over the years, such as Elle, Gideon, and Kate. While these characters were enjoyable and made significant contributions to the characters of the series, they are not as central to the main storyline as Morgan, Reid, Hotchner, and Garcia. Elle, portrayed by Masi Castaneda, brought a unique perspective to the team with her world-weary approach. Gideon, played by Terry O'Quinn, was briefly a part of the team and added a mix of toughness and empathy to their dynamics. Kate Mulgrew as Penelope Garcia's predecessor, Penelope 'Garcia' Drew, was a memorable foil to Garcia but left the show after the first season.
My Personal Selection and Conclusion
While it's challenging to single out just one character, I believe Derek Morgan and Dr. Spencer Reid stand out as some of the most dynamic and memorable characters on the show. Morgan's strength and vulnerability, as well as his growth throughout the series, make him a standout. Reid's brilliance, ingenuity, and charm keep the show exciting and engaging.
Final Thoughts
While there are many factors that contribute to the success of Criminal Minds—the brilliant writing, the ensemble cast, and the engaging stories—it is the characters that truly make it a TV classic. Each character brings something unique to the team, from Morgan's toughness to Reid's wit and Garcia's technical expertise. Choosing the best character is subjective, but it is safe to say that Criminal Minds has numerous compelling options that make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.