The final episode of Criminal Minds, “And in the End,” delivered a poignant and action-packed conclusion to the beloved series, primarily focusing on the resolution of the season-long cat-and-mouse game with the elusive serial killer, The Chameleon (Everett Lynch), while also weaving in heartwarming moments of closure for the BAU team. It culminated in a bittersweet yet satisfying send-off, leaving viewers with a sense of finality and the enduring legacy of the team’s unwavering commitment to justice.
The Hunt for The Chameleon Concludes
The series finale unfolded as a two-part event, beginning with “Awake” and concluding with “And in the End.” The driving force of both episodes was the intensified pursuit of Everett Lynch, whose manipulative and deadly game reached a fever pitch. The BAU team, pushed to their limits, found themselves facing not only Lynch but also their own personal demons as they grappled with the potential loss of one of their own.
The Brink of Despair
The initial moments of “And in the End” showcased the lingering tension from “Awake,” with the team reeling from Rossi’s kidnapping. Lynch’s capture of Rossi (Joe Mantegna) injected a palpable sense of urgency and fear into the narrative. The episode expertly manipulated the audience’s emotions, building suspense as the team raced against time to locate and rescue their friend and colleague. The vulnerability of Rossi, a seasoned profiler and a pillar of the BAU, heightened the stakes considerably.
A Deadly Confrontation
The chase for Lynch leads the team to a desolate, abandoned site, setting the stage for a final, dramatic confrontation. The ensuing battle between the BAU and Lynch’s network of accomplices was intense and visceral. The episode masterfully balanced the action sequences with the emotional weight of the situation, highlighting the team’s camaraderie and unwavering dedication to each other.
The climatic showdown saw Dr. Spencer Reid (Matthew Gray Gubler) in a particularly precarious situation, forced to make a split-second decision that ultimately leads to Lynch’s downfall. The episode’s pacing kept viewers on the edge of their seats, unsure of the outcome until the very last moment.
Resolutions and Goodbyes
Beyond the resolution of the Lynch case, “And in the End” provided much-needed closure for the characters we’ve grown to love over the past fifteen seasons. There were tender moments between team members, acknowledging the deep bonds forged through shared trauma and unwavering support.
The episode subtly hinted at potential futures for several characters, suggesting continued dedication to law enforcement and personal growth. A celebratory gathering at Rossi’s house cemented the feeling of family that has always been at the heart of Criminal Minds. The final scene, a quiet moment of reflection, served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the lasting impact of the BAU’s work.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Criminal Minds Finale
This section addresses common questions that arose following the airing of “And in the End,” providing further insight into the episode’s plot, character arcs, and overall significance.
1. Was Everett Lynch really dead at the end of the episode?
Yes, Everett Lynch, a.k.a. The Chameleon, was definitively killed during the final confrontation. His death marked the end of the season-long arc dedicated to capturing him and bringing his reign of terror to an end.
2. Did Rossi die in the finale?
Fortunately, Rossi survived his ordeal. Although he was kidnapped and subjected to psychological torture by Lynch, the BAU team successfully rescued him before he suffered any permanent harm.
3. Why was Derek Morgan not in the finale?
While Shemar Moore, who played Derek Morgan, couldn’t make an appearance due to scheduling conflicts with his leading role on S.W.A.T., his presence was subtly acknowledged. Morgan’s absence was felt, but the episode focused on the remaining team members and their individual resolutions.
4. What happened to JJ in the finale?
JJ Jareau (A.J. Cook) continues to be a crucial member of the team. While there were no major plot twists specific to JJ in the finale beyond the resolution of the Lynch case, her dedication to her family and her work remained a central aspect of her character. Her role as a supportive colleague and experienced profiler was vital to the team’s success.
5. Did any characters leave the BAU at the end of the episode?
While the finale didn’t explicitly show any characters leaving the BAU permanently, the sense of closure suggested potential future changes for some team members. The focus remained on the enduring bonds between them and their commitment to justice, rather than immediate departures.
6. What was the significance of the final scene at Rossi’s house?
The gathering at Rossi’s house served as a symbol of the BAU’s enduring family dynamic. It highlighted the deep personal connections forged through years of working together and facing traumatic experiences. It underscored the idea that their relationships would continue even after their professional lives potentially diverged.
7. Why did they choose The Chameleon as the final antagonist?
The Chameleon’s sophisticated and elusive nature made him a compelling antagonist for the final season. His ability to adapt and manipulate, coupled with his personal connection to Rossi, created a challenging and emotionally resonant case for the BAU to solve. His long arc allowed for a deeper exploration of his motivations and the impact of his crimes on the team.
8. Was the finale satisfying for long-time viewers of Criminal Minds?
The reception to the finale was largely positive, with many viewers praising the episode’s ability to balance action, emotion, and character development. While some fans may have wished for more explicit resolutions for certain characters, the overall consensus was that “And in the End” provided a fitting and respectful conclusion to the series.
9. What were the ratings for the Criminal Minds finale?
The Criminal Minds series finale garnered strong ratings, reflecting the show’s enduring popularity and the anticipation surrounding its conclusion. The episode drew a significant viewership, demonstrating the loyalty of the fan base and the widespread interest in seeing how the story would end.
10. Will there be a Criminal Minds reboot or revival?
While there were initial discussions about a potential reboot, a revival series titled Criminal Minds: Evolution premiered on Paramount+ in 2022, featuring many of the original cast members. This new iteration continues the story of the BAU, tackling new and challenging cases in the ever-evolving landscape of criminal profiling.
11. How did the finale address the trauma experienced by the BAU team?
The finale subtly acknowledged the cumulative trauma experienced by the BAU team throughout the series. While it didn’t delve deeply into individual experiences, the emphasis on camaraderie and support highlighted the importance of their relationships in coping with the psychological toll of their work. Rossi’s kidnapping, in particular, served as a stark reminder of the dangers they faced and the emotional weight they carried.
12. What message did the Criminal Minds finale ultimately convey?
The Criminal Minds finale ultimately conveyed a message of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection. Despite the darkness they faced in their work, the BAU team remained committed to justice and to each other. The finale emphasized the importance of family, both biological and chosen, and the enduring legacy of their dedication to protecting the innocent. It highlighted that even in the face of unspeakable evil, good can prevail, and the bonds of love and friendship can provide strength and solace.