‘Criminal Minds’ season 12, episode 3 sneak peeks: Paget Brewster’s big return

We have understandably spent a good bit of time talking about Thomas Gibson’s departure from “Criminal Minds” as of late, and we imagine that we’re still going to be doing that going into tonight. We’ve made our stance on that fairly clear: Even if you have something against Gibson from a production standpoint, it doesn’t seem right for it to come at the expense of Hotch. Hopefully, the show doesn’t just let him disappear into oblivion Wednesday.

Unfortunately, the two sneak peeks below for “Taboo” do not give you anything when it comes to Hotch’s whereabouts. Instead, they focus more around the case of the deceased Lisa Barkley, and the return of Paget Brewster. Let’s make one thing very clear: We’re thrilled to see Emily Prentiss back on the team. We don’t want our frustration over the exit of Hotch somehow taint our feelings towards getting to see her again on the show. She remains out of the bet characters created in this franchise, and knowing that she is back permanently is a delight.

Let’s get back now to the case. Barkley’s body was found encased in a concrete barrel, and the only reason why she was able to be identified is because of some fingers that were sticking out through the surface. It’s a horrific way to die, especially since she was a single mother, and that she was apparently put into said barrel still alive.

There’s not much else in the way of story scoop in these sneak peeks, but it feels fair to assume that the BAU will figure this out. As for whether or not they get justice for Barkley, that remains to be seen.

Before we sign off, here’s a reminder for all the Hotch fans out there: You can head over here to read some additional speculation regarding what could be happening to that character. (Photo: CBS.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3_x7JAPNyQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_B2xPfxZ904