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Rachel Nichols, who was originally tapped for a 3-episode arc which will begin airing next week, is in negotiations to join the cast of CBS’ Criminal Minds as a series regular, the show’s first new regular addition since Joe Mantegna took over for Mandy Patinkin in 2007. Following the departure of original castmember A.J. Cook at the beginning of the current sixth season, CBS had said it would add a new female regular cast member.
The former Alias actress will play FBI cadet Ashley Seaver, who will first join the Behavior Analysis Unit when she is invited by Agent Hotch (Thomas Gibson) to consult on a case after learning her family history will bring a unique insight into the mind of a serial killer.
Meanwhile, Paget Brewster has been asked to return to a status of a full-fledged regular on the show but will weigh pilot offers. Brewster opted to adhere to her amended contract and take advantage of the option that allows her to do a pilot.
What do you think of all the cast changes in Criminal Minds? Do you miss A.J. Cook’s JJ?
