Response to CBS's plan to axe AJ Cook and make Paget Brewster Part Time
Dear CBS:
Your recent decision regarding the cast of Criminal Minds is unfortunately a misguided one. While the recent release is that you aim to 'refresh' the cast of this veteran drama, this seems a baseless excuse. There is nothing 'stale' about the characters portrayed by Ms. Cook or Ms. Brewster; in fact, most fans agree that they provide a needed balance to the show's dramatic dynamic.
Some early reports had stated that the decision was based on the fact that your executives felt Criminal Minds was a more male-centric program; I must say that your polling numbers are off. There are literally hordes of women who love this show, and now, an angry horde as by your actions you are telling them their viewership is negligible, and the representation of their gender in a crime drama unrealistic.
Additionally, you should realize what a draw Ms. Brewster and Ms. Cook are to the male viewers. Many of those I have discussed this problem with have expressed disappointment in your recent decision, and doubt if they will continue watching without these vital characters.
Ultimately, by eliminating the character of JJ Jareau, and reducing the episodes featuring Emily Prentiss, you are dooming the show to fail. Fans will fall away, missing the chemistry that exists within the current cast. Is it logical to make drastic changes to one program while simultaneously attempting to launch a spinoff from it?
I understand there are factors we the fans may not see. However, I can't help but think a more logical solution would be to end the show cleanly with this coming season, tying that closure to the launch of the new spinoff. Do I want my favorite show to end? Of course not- Criminal Minds is the only reason I turn on my TV at all! However, I understand that your executives clearly want to do away with this brilliant program, and can only express that you do so in a manner that maintains the integrity of the BAU Team.
Kindest Regards,
Kathleen Hyde
Loyal CM Fan
Your recent decision regarding the cast of Criminal Minds is unfortunately a misguided one. While the recent release is that you aim to 'refresh' the cast of this veteran drama, this seems a baseless excuse. There is nothing 'stale' about the characters portrayed by Ms. Cook or Ms. Brewster; in fact, most fans agree that they provide a needed balance to the show's dramatic dynamic.
Some early reports had stated that the decision was based on the fact that your executives felt Criminal Minds was a more male-centric program; I must say that your polling numbers are off. There are literally hordes of women who love this show, and now, an angry horde as by your actions you are telling them their viewership is negligible, and the representation of their gender in a crime drama unrealistic.
Additionally, you should realize what a draw Ms. Brewster and Ms. Cook are to the male viewers. Many of those I have discussed this problem with have expressed disappointment in your recent decision, and doubt if they will continue watching without these vital characters.
Ultimately, by eliminating the character of JJ Jareau, and reducing the episodes featuring Emily Prentiss, you are dooming the show to fail. Fans will fall away, missing the chemistry that exists within the current cast. Is it logical to make drastic changes to one program while simultaneously attempting to launch a spinoff from it?
I understand there are factors we the fans may not see. However, I can't help but think a more logical solution would be to end the show cleanly with this coming season, tying that closure to the launch of the new spinoff. Do I want my favorite show to end? Of course not- Criminal Minds is the only reason I turn on my TV at all! However, I understand that your executives clearly want to do away with this brilliant program, and can only express that you do so in a manner that maintains the integrity of the BAU Team.
Kindest Regards,
Kathleen Hyde
Loyal CM Fan