Current status overview
As of mid-2026, Criminal Minds is not airing new episodes on any broadcast or first-run streaming service. The show concluded its network run on CBS in September 2023 with the finale of its sixteenth season, and no new season has been ordered since. All existing seasons remain available on Paramount+, and repeats air on CBS in syndication. The series is considered concluded unless a new production partner or platform announces a revival.
What happened to new episodes
Criminal Minds aired its original network run on CBS from 2005 to 2023, spanning fifteen full seasons and several special events. In April 2023, CBS confirmed the sixteenth season would be the final batch of episodes for the long-running franchise on the network. The series finale aired in September 2023. Since then, there have been no official announcements of new seasons on CBS or its streaming arm, Paramount+. The status is stable: the show remains off the air unless a future partner revives it.
Renewal history and network timeline
Over its run, Criminal Minds moved platforms once and expanded into a broader media ecosystem. Below is a concise timeline focused on renewals and where new seasons aired.
| Date or Period | Event | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 2005–2017 | Seasons 1–13 on CBS | Original network home; established the series |
| 2017–2020 | Seasons 14–15 on CBS; move to streaming on CBS All Access (later Paramount+) | Shift to streaming-adjacent model while still on broadcast |
| 2022 | Season 16 renewal announced | Final season ordered; planned as concluding batch |
| 2023 | Season 16 finale aired September 2023 | Series finale on CBS; no new season announced |
Where to look for official updates
To confirm whether Criminal Minds will return, prioritize sources that have direct industry relationships or distribution rights. These channels provide accurate, traceable information rather than rumors or speculation.
- Paramount+ press releases and renewals page
- CBS press releases and official schedule announcements
- Showrunner or studio official social accounts with verified badges
- Trade outlets such as Deadline or Variety when announcements occur
How to verify future air dates
When a show is off the air, rumors often circulate about revivals or new seasons. Reliable verification follows a clear path: an official announcement from a rights holder or platform. Until then, treat unofficial headlines as speculation.
- Check Paramount+ for any catalog additions or new-season banners labeled Criminal Minds.
- Review CBS schedule or press page for any return announcements in broadcast or syndicated windows.
- Look for verified studio or network announcements confirming new production or distribution deals.
- Monitor official showrunner or writer posts when they reference the franchise publicly.
Frequently asked questions
Below are concise answers to common questions about the show’s current status and how to track any changes.
| Question | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Is there a new season in production? | No announced new season as of mid-2026. | Platform announcements, studio press |
| Where did the original series end? | CBS Season 16 finale in September 2023. | Network press releases, episode guides |
| Can I stream Criminal Minds now? | Yes, all prior seasons are available on Paramount+. | Platform catalog, rights disclosures |
| Could the show return on another service? | Possible, but unconfirmed; would require a new deal and public announcement. | Industry reporting, studio licensing news |
Comparing past seasons and current availability
Understanding where the show has been and where you can watch it now helps set expectations about new episodes.
- Past broadcast model: Primarily CBS with later streaming integration.
- Current availability: Full catalog on Paramount+; repeats on CBS in syndication.
- Future model: Unknown; would depend on a new platform or network commitment.
Key terms and background
These definitions provide context for understanding renewal announcements and industry terminology related to revivals and new seasons.
- Renewal: A network or platform ordering additional seasons or episodes.
- Finale: The final episode of a season or series, often marking a conclusion.
- Revival: A new season or series that resumes an older show with original or new cast.
- Syndication: Broadcasting previously aired episodes on local stations or cable channels.
Bottom line
Criminal Minds is not currently returning with new episodes. The series finished its network run on CBS in 2023, and no new season has been announced. Existing content remains on Paramount+, and repeats air on CBS. To know when—if ever—the show returns, watch for official announcements from Paramount+, CBS, or the show’s studio or creators.