Criminal Minds season 13 renewal: Why are we still waiting?

Earlier today, CBS confirmed the news that a wide array of their primetime programming is going to be coming back on the air (you can check out which shows are coming back at the link here) — alas, Criminal Minds is a show that we’re still waiting to get a little bit more news about. It’s a show that’s done some good things in season 12 like breaking away from a procedural format more, but it’s also had some challenges, such as introducing new cast members and saying goodbye to an original series star in Thomas Gibson.

Now, the question you have to wonder is why we didn’t get the Criminal Minds renewal earlier today? Is it because of the ratings? Probably not. This is more of a situation tied to the fact that this show comes via ABC Studios, which means that there is a slightly different protocol in the works here than there would be for a show from CBS or Warner Bros. TV, who they frequently work with. The network and the studio often have lengthy negotiations, especially since at this point in a series’ run, it’s far more expensive to keep a show on the air for a network than it was in the early days.

We think that everything will probably by sorted out by the time we get around to May, but the fate of the Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders spin-off is probably a little more dicey thanks to the sole fact that CBS seems to be treating it already like it’s somewhat expendable. For now, the biggest thing that we can say is not to worry about the flagship show too much. Even with lower ratings in the 18-49 demographic this year, it’s still one of their top-rated drama series. You also have to remember that the majority of the CBS scripted fare, other than the continually-dominant Friday schedule, has posted some pretty big declines this year in live+same day ratings.

As for whether season 13 could be the last one for Criminal Minds, anything is possible. We don’t want to jinx the cast and crew by pointing in any one direction, since it probably depends mostly on the cost versus the numbers.

Remember, you can get some further news in regards to Criminal Minds, including our most-recent episode review, just by heading over to the link here!

Do you think that the renewal will happen, and how long do you see Criminal Minds on the air? Share now in the comments! (Photo: CBS.)