In the world of television, the unexpected loss of a beloved character can leave fans and characters alike reeling. Such was the case with the abrupt and tragic death of Will LaMontagne Jr. on the long-running series, Criminal Minds: Evolution. This unexpected turn of events not only shocked viewers but also forced the show to confront the emotional aftermath of such a loss. The question on everyone's mind is: what happened to Will, and how did this impact the show and its characters? Let's delve into the details and explore the aftermath of Will's death, as well as the reasons behind Josh Stewart's departure from the series.
The Tragic End of Will LaMontagne Jr.
Will's death was a shocking twist that left fans and characters alike reeling. In Season 18, Episode 2, Will suffered an aneurysm and, unfortunately, passed away. The scene was filmed several seasons ago, but it was ultimately decided not to use it, as it felt too painful to put Will in such a vulnerable position. However, in the wake of Stewart's surprise departure, the show decided to salvage the scene for a emotional sendoff, paying tribute to the character and the impact he had on the series.
The Emotional Aftermath
The loss of Will had a profound impact on the show and its characters, particularly JJ, his wife. The scene where Will collapsed in the kitchen was a powerful moment that highlighted the emotional turmoil the characters were going through. Aisha Tyler, who portrays Tara and directed the emotional episode, described it as a "seminal moment for the characters, for the series." The question of how JJ would work through her grief and how it would affect her work and her children was a powerful one, resonating with anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one.
The Impact on the Show
Will's death also had a significant impact on the show itself. The series had to confront the emotional aftermath of such a loss, and the characters had to navigate the challenges of moving forward. The show also briefly brought back Matthew Gray Gubler's Dr. Spencer Reid for the funeral, adding another layer of complexity to the story. The question of how the show would move forward without Will was a challenging one, and it remains to be seen how the series will continue to explore the impact of his death on the characters and the story.
Josh Stewart's Departure
The reasons behind Josh Stewart's departure from the series are complex and multifaceted. Stewart confirmed in January 2024 that he wouldn't be returning to the series as Will, and showrunner Erica Messer explained that they tried to make it work for this year, but it just didn't work out. The decision to write Will off the show was a difficult one, and it was clear that the show had to move on without him. Stewart's departure was a surprise to fans, but he understood that it was a part of the business. He expressed his love for playing the character and his admiration for the show and its cast, but he also respected the decision to move on.
The Future of Criminal Minds: Evolution
As we move forward, the question of how Criminal Minds: Evolution will continue to explore the impact of Will's death on the characters and the story remains to be seen. The show has a challenging task ahead of it, but it is also an opportunity to explore the complexities of grief and loss, and to showcase the resilience of the characters as they navigate the challenges of moving forward. The future of the show is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the impact of Will's death will be felt for a long time to come.
In conclusion, the death of Will LaMontagne Jr. on Criminal Minds: Evolution was a powerful and emotional moment that left a lasting impact on the show and its characters. The reasons behind Josh Stewart's departure are complex and multifaceted, and the future of the show remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: the impact of Will's death will be felt for a long time to come, and the show will continue to explore the complexities of grief and loss as it moves forward.
