‘Criminal Minds’ Showrunner Discusses Emotional Season 19 Premiere Death

Season 19 of ‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’ kicked off with a poignant moment, as a cherished character met their demise in the premiere episode.

During the two-episode return on May 28, 2026, the BAU team is engaged in a new case, but one particularly emotional storyline quickly takes center stage. Luke Alvez, portrayed by Adam Rodriguez, grapples with grief following the loss of his dog, Roxy. By the conclusion of the premiere, viewers discover that Roxy has been euthanized, marking a deeply touching moment for both the character and the fans who have followed his journey for years.

Showrunner Erica Messer addressed the decision and the challenges it posed for the cast and crew. As reported by Us Weekly, she stated, “I don’t think we can ever be prepared anytime anything has ever happened with a beloved character — whether they’re four-legged or not.” She emphasized that pets hold significant emotional value for many viewers, remarking, “It’s a loss of a family member.”

Messer elaborated that Roxy had been integral to Luke’s narrative for a long time, especially for fans who have been watching since earlier seasons. The writers were aware that this storyline would resonate deeply. She mentioned, “It was devastating for all of us to break that story. We all really felt the loss.”

The emotional weight of the episode also impacted production. Messer revealed that she had prepared Adam Rodriguez in advance for the storyline, noting that the cast was profoundly affected during filming, with “not a dry eye” present during the table read and shooting.

Adam Rodriguez has also shared insights about the ramifications of significant story changes on the series. In previous discussions with Us Weekly, he reflected on how the show embraces bold choices with its characters. He noted that even challenging storylines can enhance actors’ emotional performances, allowing characters like JJ and Luke to exhibit greater vulnerability.

Over the years, ‘Criminal Minds’ has consistently tackled major character departures and emotional deaths. The franchise often utilizes loss as a catalyst for character development, illustrating how the BAU team copes with grief while continuing their work on perilous cases.

Rodriguez has previously commented on the behind-the-scenes handling of these decisions. He explained that actors typically receive advance notice before significant changes occur, allowing them to prepare for emotional arcs rather than being caught off guard.

Looking ahead, Messer stated that Season 19 will focus on “new beginnings,” even after such a heartbreaking start. She described the season as one that balances grief with hope, showcasing how the team continues to progress while facing personal challenges.

New episodes of ‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’ continue to stream weekly on Paramount+, with more emotional and high-stakes stories anticipated throughout the season.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!