This started a week or so ago. Rumors were all over the internet that Mandy Patinkin no showed a table reading. The reason was not entirely clear. Stories were floating with some suggesting a salary dispute, while others said that the first couple of episodes for season three did not feature his character as much.
With this, it was said, the show’s writers were told to work with the plan that Patinkin would not be returning.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, the show’s producers ABC Studios and the show’s Network CBS, issued a joint statement confirming this.
“Last week, Mandy Patinkin asked to be released from his role on Criminal Minds. We have honored this request, which was not in any way connected to contract renegotiations or salary issues. His departure from the series will be explained to audiences in an episode to be filmed in the near future and broadcast early next season. We thank Mandy for helping to make Criminal Minds a strong and successful series, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors. A new character will be added to the series for next season.”
In a seperate release, Mr. Patinkin said:
“Due to creative differences, Mandy has asked not to return to Criminal Minds this season. Mandy would like to thank the studios and network for releasing him from the series, and he wishes the cast and crew continued success in all of their endeavors and looks forward to continuing to work with the Disney and CBS companies in other capacities in the future.”
Of course in Hollywood, “creative differences” means as much as “exhaustion” does in Rock n Roll.
The show is planning on introducing a new character early next season.
As much as I loved Mandy on the show I knew it couldn't last. The man has no follow through on anything. However as much as I liked him onit, I think the show will do just fine without him as long as the new character doesn't try to fill the now empty shoes.
I'll reserve judgment on the show without Patinkin until I've seen a few shows. But on the surface it doesn't look good.
Love the show and loved Mandy as Gideon, I watch the reruns. Rossi (Mr. Monatgue) arrived and is doing just fine. I love this show just don't lose Hock, Reid, Morgan or Garcia.