Criminal Minds: Evolution – Explanation for Josh Stewart’s Absence as Will LaMontagne Jr. in Season 2

The crime procedural genre remains a beloved fixture on network television, yet it continues to flourish in the realm of streaming platforms. A prime example of this revitalization is Criminal Minds: Evolution, streaming exclusively on Paramount+. Initially airing for 15 successful seasons on CBS, the original Criminal Minds series paved the way for this sequel, which is now progressing into its third season. The new installment welcomes back fan-favorite characters, including David Rossi (portrayed by Joe Mantegna), Emily Prentiss (Paget Brewster), Jennifer “J.J.” Jareau (A.J. Cook), Luke Alvarez (Adam Rodriguez), and Dr. Tara Lewis (Aisha Tyler). Notably, Will LaMontagne, Jr. (Josh Stewart) played a key role in the franchise but did not make a return for season 2.

Will LaMontagne, a detective integral to the operations of the Behavioral Analysis Unit, had been a recurring character since season 2 of the original series. His character not only developed close ties to the team but also entered into a romantic relationship with J.J., becoming the father of her child, Henry. His unexpected absence from Criminal Minds: Evolution left many fans puzzled, particularly since he had been a consistent presence in the franchise.

Josh Stewart’s Departure from Criminal Minds: Evolution

Showrunner Erica Messer Offers Limited Insight on Stewart’s Departure

In January 2024, Josh Stewart officially confirmed his decision to exit Criminal Minds: Evolution season 2 through a post on the social platform X, responding to an inquiry from a fan. His message stated, “No sadly, my days of Will LaMontagne Jr. are over. You guys have been the absolute best.” While this statement was appreciative, it offered no further explanation regarding his departure from the series.

No sadly, my days of playing Will LaMontagne Jr. are over. You guys have been the absolute best. ð&Yuml;™
https://t.co/jq9LxhL3HO
— Josh Stewart (@J0SHSTEWART)
January 17, 2024

Showrunner Erica Messer also touched upon Stewart’s exit in a May 2024 interview with TV Line. She stated, “We tried to make it work for this year and it just didn’t work out. We love Will, J.J. loves Will… and that’s always a part of her world and her character.”

It’s possible that Stewart’s busy schedule contributed to his exit, particularly as he has recently starred in the Apple TV+ series Manhunt, and his IMDb profile indicates he has several upcoming film projects.

Addressing Will’s Absence in Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2

J.J. Indicates Will is Busy With Work

Will looking down as a threat looms behind him in Criminal Minds: Evolution

Throughout the first season of Criminal Minds: Evolution, Will makes limited appearances. A pivotal moment occurs in episode 4, “Pay-Per-View,” when Will visits a doctor and receives troubling news about a potential cancer diagnosis; fortunately, it turns out to be a false alarm. In her TV Line interview, Erica Messer expressed hope that “next season, hopefully, he’s going to be OK, but he’s not necessarily out of the woods forever.”

In season 2, J.J. explains Will’s absence by claiming he is “busy with work.” This subtle explanation aligns with the season’s focus on the Gold Star murder case, effectively diverting attention from Stewart’s character. The future of Will’s character in season 3 remains uncertain, especially with the ongoing implications of his medical scare from the previous season.

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