Emily Prentiss’s shocking “death” and triumphant return remain one of the most talked-about storylines in Criminal Minds. Prentiss makes her dramatic re-entry in Season 7, Episode 1, “It Takes a Village.”
The Aftermath and the Lead-Up to “It Takes a Village”
Emily Prentiss, portrayed by the talented Paget Brewster, became a fan favorite for her sharp intellect, compassionate nature, and unflinching bravery. Her departure from the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) in Season 6 left a void, but the circumstances surrounding it were nothing short of devastating. She was seemingly murdered by Ian Doyle, a former IRA terrorist with a deep personal vendetta against her. Her “death” was meticulously staged by JJ, who helped Prentiss fake her demise and go into hiding to protect herself and her team. The subsequent grief and trauma experienced by the BAU were palpable, shaping their interactions and case work throughout the remainder of Season 6.
The beginning of Season 7 sees the team still reeling from the loss of Prentiss and the deception surrounding her exit. However, hints and clues begin to emerge, suggesting that all may not be as it seems. These subtle breadcrumbs eventually culminate in the revelation that Prentiss is not only alive but also in grave danger, requiring the immediate assistance of her former colleagues. The stakes are higher than ever as the BAU races against time to protect her.
Prentiss’s Explosive Return: “It Takes a Village” Deconstructed
“It Takes a Village” is a masterclass in suspense and emotional reunion. The episode opens with the BAU investigating a series of bizarre murders in Washington D.C. As they delve deeper, they discover a connection to Interpol and, ultimately, to Emily Prentiss. We learn that Prentiss has been working undercover for Interpol, tracking down criminals connected to Doyle. However, her cover has been blown, and she’s once again a target.
The episode deftly interweaves flashbacks that reveal the intricate details of Prentiss’s escape after faking her death. We see JJ’s crucial role in orchestrating the cover-up and the sacrifices Prentiss made to protect her team. The tension builds as the BAU pieces together Prentiss’s location and confronts the threat against her.
The reunion itself is charged with emotion. Relief, joy, and lingering resentment all play a part in the team’s initial reactions. While they are overjoyed to have their friend back, they also grapple with the fact that she kept them in the dark for so long. The episode concludes with Prentiss officially rejoining the BAU, marking a significant turning point for the team dynamic and setting the stage for new challenges and adventures.
FAQs About Emily Prentiss’s Return
FAQ 1: Why was Emily Prentiss “killed off” in the first place?
The reasons behind Prentiss’s departure were complex and involved contract negotiations. Actress Paget Brewster’s contract was not renewed due to budget cuts and creative decisions made by the network. This ultimately led to the storyline where her character was seemingly killed off. Fan outcry and support eventually led to her return.
FAQ 2: How did JJ help Prentiss fake her death?
JJ, working for the State Department at the time, used her contacts and resources to create a false identity and a plausible cover story for Prentiss. She obtained a fake death certificate and helped Prentiss disappear without a trace, ensuring that even the BAU believed she was truly dead. This involved considerable risk for JJ, potentially jeopardizing her career and reputation.
FAQ 3: What were the team’s reactions to finding out Prentiss was alive?
The team’s reactions were a mix of elation, anger, and confusion. Hotch, as the leader, was primarily concerned with her safety. Rossi expressed relief but also resentment for being kept in the dark. Morgan, who had a close bond with Prentiss, struggled with feelings of betrayal. Reid, ever the intellectual, focused on understanding the logistics of the deception. Overall, there was a sense of overwhelming relief that their friend was alive, but also a need to process the lies and the emotional impact of her absence.
FAQ 4: How long was Emily Prentiss “dead” for in the show’s timeline?
Prentiss was considered “dead” for roughly eight episodes of Criminal Minds, spanning from the Season 6 finale, “Supply and Demand,” to the Season 7 premiere, “It Takes a Village.” This period allowed the writers to explore the consequences of her supposed death and build suspense for her eventual return.
FAQ 5: What was Prentiss doing while she was “dead”?
Prentiss was working undercover for Interpol, tracking down criminals connected to Ian Doyle. This provided a believable explanation for her absence and her continued involvement in high-stakes investigations. Her work with Interpol put her in constant danger, necessitating the need for her to fake her death in the first place.
FAQ 6: Did Ian Doyle actually die when Prentiss “killed” him?
While it appeared that Prentiss killed Ian Doyle in self-defense, his body was never recovered. This ambiguity left the door open for a potential future storyline, though Doyle never reappeared in the series. The lack of a confirmed death added to the suspense surrounding Prentiss’s fate.
FAQ 7: How did Prentiss’s return affect the team dynamic?
Prentiss’s return initially created some friction within the team, as they grappled with the deception and the emotional toll of her absence. However, over time, her return strengthened their bonds and reaffirmed their commitment to each other. Her experience working undercover also brought a new perspective and skillset to the BAU.
FAQ 8: Did the other members of the BAU know about Prentiss’s plan?
Only JJ and Hotch were initially aware of Prentiss’s plan to fake her death. The other members of the BAU believed that she was genuinely dead, adding to their grief and trauma. Hotch’s knowledge was essential for protecting the team and ensuring the success of Prentiss’s mission.
FAQ 9: How does Prentiss explain her actions to the rest of the team?
Prentiss explains that she acted in their best interests, believing that keeping them in the dark was the only way to protect them from Doyle and his associates. She emphasizes that she never wanted to hurt them but felt that she had no other choice. While they understand her reasoning, it still takes time for them to fully forgive her.
FAQ 10: Is Prentiss’s return permanent after “It Takes a Village”?
Yes, after “It Takes a Village,” Prentiss remains a core member of the BAU until Season 12, when she temporarily leaves again before eventually returning as Unit Chief. Her character becomes a central figure in the series, contributing significantly to the team’s success and her leadership qualities develop extensively.
FAQ 11: What is the overall impact of Prentiss’s “death” and return on the series?
Prentiss’s storyline is considered one of the most impactful in the series. It highlights the dangers faced by FBI agents, the sacrifices they make, and the importance of trust and loyalty within the BAU. Her return revitalized the show and provided new opportunities for character development and storytelling.
FAQ 12: Does Prentiss ever leave Criminal Minds again after her return in Season 7?
Yes, Prentiss leaves again temporarily in Season 12 to work for Interpol. She returns in Season 13 as the new Unit Chief, replacing Aaron Hotchner. This later return marks a significant chapter in her career and a powerful demonstration of her leadership capabilities.