Mandy Patinkin calls role in Criminal Minds his 'biggest mistake'

Mandy Patinkin, the actor who portrayed Jason Gideon in Criminal Minds, has expressed deep regret over his involvement in the series. As the show approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, Patinkin reflects on his role, calling it the "biggest public mistake" of his career. The actor, who departed from the show during its third season, criticized the series for its portrayal of violence, particularly against women. In a 2012 interview with New York Magazine, Patinkin revealed, "I never thought [the show's writers] were going to kill and rape all these women… week after week, year after year." He elaborated further during a talk at the 92nd Street Y, stating that he took the role for financial stability but struggled with the show's content, describing it as "misogynistic" and harmful to his well-being.

Despite Patinkin’s departure, the character of Jason Gideon remains a significant figure within the Criminal Minds universe. Showrunner Erica Messer and her team kept Gideon’s legacy alive, even after writing his death into the narrative in Season 10. Though Patinkin did not return for this episode, his character continued to be referenced with reverence by the remaining cast members. Patinkin clarified that his criticism is personal, acknowledging that fans are not "wrong" for enjoying the show, but emphasized his need to leave to "save my life."

Criminal Minds remains popular, with the full series streaming on Paramount+, and production for Season 18 of Criminal Minds: Evolution currently underway.