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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Matthew Gray Gubler returns as Dr. Spencer Reid in Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 3—Season 18 of Criminal Minds overall—in Episode 3, “Time to Say Goodbye.” The May 22, 2025 episode brings Reid to support Jennifer “JJ” Jareau after her husband, Will, dies. It is a brief personal appearance, not a confirmed return to the BAU as a regular team member.
When does Spencer Reid return?
Reid appears in Season 18, Episode 3, “Time to Say Goodbye,” which aired May 22, 2025. Paramount’s U.S. premiere date for the season was May 8, 2025, on Paramount+.
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The season numbering can be confusing: “Season 3” refers to the third season branded Criminal Minds: Evolution, while Paramount numbers it as Season 18 of the overall series. It is not the original show’s third season. Paramount’s series page identifies the 2025 installment as Season 18 and lists its U.S. platform and premiere date.
What happens in Reid’s return?
“Time to Say Goodbye” focuses on JJ and the aftermath of Will’s sudden death. Former teammates have sent flowers, and Reid comes in person. He embraces JJ and her sons, reunites with the former team, and is beside JJ at Will’s graveside. His presence is an act of support for his friend; the episode account does not describe him joining the season’s central investigation or formally rejoining the BAU.
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TV Insider reported that A.J. Cook called Gubler to explain the story and invite him to appear. Cook said the scene was intended to stay restrained: “They didn’t need a monologue. They didn’t need a bunch of dialogue. It’s all in looks.” She also described Reid’s brief appearance as meaningful to the episode.
Gubler said in a statement obtained by TV Insider: “It’s a joy to get to tell stories with people you love so I will always cherish any moment, big or small, that I get to hug my Criminal Minds family or slip back into my dear friend Spencer’s oversized wingtips.” TV Insider’s episode report includes his statement and Cook’s comments.
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Where has Spencer Reid been?
For the earlier Evolution seasons, TV Insider reported that Gubler’s absence was due to scheduling. The cited coverage does not establish Reid’s exact in-story location, assignment, or day-to-day duties while he was away, so those details should not be treated as settled. His Season 18 appearance shows him returning to support JJ, but does not provide a detailed explanation of his prior whereabouts.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Will Matthew Gray Gubler return in a future season?
As of October 8, 2026, the official announcements cited here confirm that Season 19 premiered May 28, 2026, and that Season 20 is planned for 2027. They do not confirm Gubler’s casting in either season. A report published in October 2026 describes his Season 18 appearance as brief and treats another appearance as uncertain; it does not establish that a return is impossible or that Gubler has ruled one out.
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- Genre: TV Crime
- Number of Discs: 85
- Number of Tracks: 0
- Rating: NR
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Accordingly, Reid’s guest appearance in Season 18 is confirmed, but a future appearance—or a return as a regular cast member—should be considered unconfirmed unless announced by the show or Paramount. Paramount’s Season 19 and Season 20 announcement provides the series schedule, not confirmation of Reid’s involvement.
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