Jacob Ant
In July 2022, fans of Criminal Minds were thrilled to learn that the popular CBS crime drama was being revived for a 16th season, titled “Evolution,” on Paramount+, promising to continue the story from the original series, and it certainly delivered.
Throughout its 10-episode run, Criminal Minds: Evolution saw the BAU facing their greatest foe yet, the UnSub Sicarius, who was later revealed to be Elias Voit and built a network of serial killers during the COVID pandemic.
The cliffhanger finale left fans eager to see what will happen next, and the wait is finally over. Here’s what you need to know about the show’s return, including the release date, plot, cast, and how to watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in European countries…
How to watch Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 in Europe?
Criminal Mindsâs anticipated new season is headed to Paramount+ in the United States; however, to watch it in European countries, using a VPN is necessary.
Why? Weâll get to that in just a bit; for now, letâs dive right into the steps you need to watch Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 in Europe:
1- Get ExpressVPN for Paramount+ (12+3 month free special deal)
2- Download the VPN app on your preferred device
3- Select an American server from the country list
4- Open Paramount+ on your browser or in the app
5- Search for Criminal Minds on Paramount+
6- Enjoy
Why do you need a VPN to watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe on Paramount+?
You will need a VPN to watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe on Paramount+ because this crime drama series is exclusively available on the American content library of the OTT platform. Each region where Paramount+ is available has its own collection of titles, and due to geo-restriction policies, you cannot access a title that is not authorized in your region.
For example, only users who have an American IP address can watch Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 on Paramount+ directly. But to access this show in Europe or anywhere else, you must connect to an American server via a VPN and change your IP address.
We recommend using premium VPNs like ExpressVPN because it can effortlessly allow you to change your Paramount+ region and watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in Ireland, Finland, Sweden, Turkey, France, Spain, Italy, Romania, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Germany, France, Norway, Denmark, Greece, Portugal, Switzerland, Croatia, Hungary, Netherlands, Czechia, and other European countries.
Why is ExpressVPN the best choice to watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe?
ExpressVPN stands out as the premier option for streaming Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe online due to its impressive ability to overcome Paramount+’s geo-restrictions with over 20 specialized U.S. servers.
Beyond just bypassing restrictions, ExpressVPN has a global network of 3500+ servers across 105 countries. This extensive coverage enables access to other region-locked titles like For Love & Honey, The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan Season 4, and MasterChef Season 14.
A major advantage of using ExpressVPN is its high-speed performance, with download speeds reaching up to 96Mbps and upload speeds up to 84Mbps, ensuring a smooth, buffer-free viewing experience of titles like Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 in Europe.
ExpressVPN also offers cutting-edge features like Split Tunneling, MediaStream DNS, an Internet Kill Switch, Lightway protocol, and TrustedServer technology, enhancing both the security and the quality of your streaming experience of Criminal Minds Season 17 in European countries.
The service supports nearly all operating systems including Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux, and allows for up to 8 simultaneous connections, making it very versatile.
Priced at an affordable $6.67/month under an annual plan that includes 3 extra months and a 30-day money-back guarantee, ExpressVPN is not just cost-effective but also user-friendly with 24/7 customer support, solidifying its position as the top choice for watching Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 in Europe online.
Testing NordVPN to watch Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 in European countries
If you’re searching for a reliable VPN alternative to watch Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 in Europe on Paramount+, consider NordVPN, a top-rated VPN service globally renowned for its extensive server network.
NordVPN operates over 5000 servers across more than 60 countries, featuring 1900+ servers in the United States aloneâperfect for accessing Paramount+ and streaming Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe.
Our tests with NordVPN to view various geo-blocked titles like Rooney 2004: World At His Feet, Theresa May: The Accidental Prime Minister, and Confessions of a Teenage Fraudster have confirmed that it delivers smooth streaming with download speeds up to 93Mbps and upload speeds up to 82Mbps.
NordVPN’s impressive suite of advanced features includes Meshnet, Dark Web Monitor, Double VPN, and NordLynx protocol, enhancing your security and ensuring uninterrupted streaming of your desired titles like Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe.
The VPN service supports multiple devices simultaneously, allowing you to connect up to 6 devices at once, and is compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux.
NordVPN’s two-year plan is priced competitively at just $3.09/month with a 74% discount. This plan also includes three extra months free, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and 24/7 customer support, making it an excellent choice for watching Criminal Minds Season 17 in European countries on Paramount+ with peace of mind.
Where can you watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe?
If you are looking for a local streaming option for Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe, we suggest you save yourself the legwork because this show is only available to watch on Paramount+ in the USA.
However, you can go for the clever approach of using a trustable premium VPN service like ExpressVPN or NordVPN to change your Paramount+ region by simply connecting to an American server.
Once you have gotten your hands on an encrypted American IP address, youâll be able to watch Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 in Finland, Sweden, Turkey, France, Spain, Romania, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, France, Norway, Denmark, Greece, Portugal, Croatia, Hungary, Netherlands, Czechia, and other European countries on Paramount+ without any further hassle.
Where to watch Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 in Ireland?
There is no word yet on an official local release of Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 in Ireland. That is why, your best option is to get an American IP address and watch the crime drama show on Paramount+.
We have personally tested ExpressVPN and NordVPN to access geo-restricted content from various regions worldwide and have had the best experience. Hence, we recommend them to all our readers who want to watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in Ireland.
Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 – Release Date
Criminal Minds originally debuted on September 22, 2005, on CBS, and after 15 seasons, the show was revived by Paramount+ as Criminal Minds: Evolution and premiered on November 24, 2022.
The anticipated second season of Evolution, which is also dubbed as Criminal Minds Season 17, is set to premiere on Paramount+ on June 6, 2024.
It is also worth noting that over the years, the show has been nominated for 3 Primetime Emmys and has won various other awards. Additionally, it currently holds an impressive IMDb rating of 8.1/10.
Note: Criminal Minds Season 17 is now streaming on Paramount+.
Criminal Minds Season 17 – Official Trailer
Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 – What to Expect from the Show?
Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 is set to pick up just two weeks after the dramatic events of the season one finale, hinting at a seamless continuation of the story.
The gripping narrative resumes with Agent Emily Prentiss grappling deeply with the aftermath of FBI Deputy Director Doug Baileyâs death. In addition to the personal struggles within the BAU team, the broader plot thickens as they dive into the mysterious case known as the Gold Star.
This case takes center stage, but it’s complicated further when Elias Voit manipulates his way into a deal that lands him in federal custody. This development not only places him dangerously close to those hunting him but also amplifies the threat he poses, escalating the tension to new heights.
With high stakes and even higher tensions, Criminal Minds Season 17 is set to keep fans on the edge of their seats as the BAU navigates through its most unpredictable challenges yet.
The Cast of Criminal Minds Season 17
Criminal Mind Season 17 is set to captivate audiences with a blend of familiar faces and intriguing new characters.
Hereâs a closer look at the returning cast members:
- Joe Mantegna as David Rossi
A stalwart of the BAU, David Rossi, played by Joe Mantegna, continues his role as a seasoned profiler.
Mantegna, a revered actor with a rich career, is well-known for his roles in classics like The Godfather Part III and the popular TV series Joan of Arcadia. His character Rossi, with his deep experience and profound understanding of criminal psychology, remains a cornerstone of the team.
- Paget Brewster as Emily Prentiss
Emily Prentiss, portrayed by Paget Brewster, leads the team with a combination of sharp wit and strong leadership.
Brewsterâs notable appearances include Friends where she played Kathy, and the cult favorite Community. As Prentiss, she brings a nuanced understanding of both the strategic and emotional complexities of the unitâs work.
- A.J. Cook as Jennifer “JJ” Jareau
A.J. Cook returns as Jennifer “JJ” Jareau, a seasoned agent whose expertise in profiling and media liaison work makes her indispensable.
Cook has also been seen in horror hits like Final Destination 2 and the TV show Tru Calling. JJâs deep emotional connection to her work and her family often plays a central role in her characterâs journey.
- Kirsten Vangsness as Penelope Garcia
The quirky and beloved Penelope Garcia is once again brought to life by Kirsten Vangsness. Garciaâs tech wizardry and sunny disposition continue to lighten the team’s dark caseload.
Vangsness has made her mark outside of Criminal Minds in various stage productions and the spin-off series Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior.
- Aisha Tyler as Dr. Tara Lewis
Aisha Tyler portrays Dr. Tara Lewis, a forensic psychologist whose keen insights into the human psyche are crucial.
Tyler, known for her roles on Friends, Archer, and as a host on The Talk, brings a strong, intelligent presence to the team.
- Adam Rodriguez as Luke Alvez
Luke Alvez, played by Adam Rodriguez, brings his background in fugitive recovery to the BAU, offering a unique perspective on criminal behavior.
Rodriguez is familiar to many from his long-standing role on CSI: Miami and appearances on Jane the Virgin.
- Zach Gilford as Elias Voit
Introduced in the previous season, Zach Gilfordâs character, Elias Voit, a manipulative and dangerous adversary, returns in a complex plot twist. Gilford, known for his poignant role in Friday Night Lights and films like The Purge: Anarchy, expertly portrays this chilling antagonist.
- Ryan-James Hanataka as Tyler Green
Tyler Green, played by Ryan-James Hatanaka, transitions from a guest star to a series regular this season.
Green, a former army intelligence officer, brings a unique set of skills and a personal vendetta against the criminals he hunts. Hatanaka has appeared in Nurses and Chicago P.D., showcasing his range in various dramatic roles.
- Felicity Huffman as Dr. Jill Gideon
In an exciting new development, Felicity Huffman joins the cast as Dr. Jill Gideon, the ex-wife of the late SSA Jason Gideon.
Huffman, renowned for her role in Desperate Housewives and her Oscar-nominated performance in Transamerica, plays a brilliant biological psychiatrist roped into the BAUâs latest case.
It was reported by Variety that her character’s complex past with David Rossi and her reluctance to rejoin the team add layers to the unfolding drama.
Who is not returning for Criminal Minds Season 17?
Fans will be shocked to discover that Josh Stewart, known for his recurring role as JJ’s husband, Detective Will LaMontagne Jr., will not return for the upcoming season.
Stewart confirmed his departure from the series in a January 2024 post on X, expressing his gratitude to fans.
No sadly, my days of playing Will LaMontagne Jr. are over.
You guys have been the absolute best.
đ https://t.co/jq9LxhL3HO— Josh Stewart (@J0SHSTEWART) January 17, 2024
Are Matthew Gray Gubler and Daniel Henney coming back for Criminal Minds Season 17?
Daniel Henney’s character, Agent Matt Simmons, and Matthew Gray Gubler’s Dr. Spencer Reid did not appear in the first season of Criminal Minds: Evolution, even though the series explained that Dr. Reid was engaged in a classified assignment with another FBI unit.
The show has frequently mentioned Dr. Reid, keeping fans hopeful for his potential return. “Itâd be amazing. Iâm not giving up hope on that,” Erica Messer shared with TVLine when discussing the possibility of the actors returning to the franchise.
In an interview with Good Housekeeping, A.J. Cook also discussed Matthew’s potential return. She mentioned that “He has [watched the new episodes] and he’s super excited. He thinks they’re great. He wants to do it. He wants to be involved. It’s just the timing hasn’t been right yet … He would absolutely come back if the timing could work.”
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Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 – Episode Details
The complete details about the upcoming new episodes of Criminal Minds: Evolution haven’t been revealed yet, but we do know that the new season will have a total of 10 episodes, and they will be released on a weekly basis, starting with a two-episode premiere on June 6, 2024, on Paramount+.
We have mentioned what we know about Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 episodes below:
Episode 1 – Gold Dragon
Release Date: June 6, 2024
The BAU investigates a lethal Gold Star conspiracy as the transfer of serial killer Elias Voit to their custody introduces a significant complication. Confronted with their greatest threat to date, the team faces inevitable, mind-altering repercussions.
- Episode 2 – Contagion – June 6, 2024
- Episode 3 – Homesick – June 13, 2024
- Episode 4 – Kingdom of the Blind – June 20, 2024
- Episode 5 – Conspiracy vs. Theory – June 27, 2024
- Episode 6 – Message in a Bottle – July 4, 2024
- Episode 7 – Piranha – July 11, 2024
- Episode 8 – North Star – July 18, 2024
- Episode 9 – Stars & Stripes – July 25, 2024
- Episode 10 – Save the Children – August 1, 2024
Note: When new details about Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 episodes get revealed online, we will update this blog.
Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 – Review
Jay Snow from Paste Magazine says Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 is intense, grim, and faces some recurring challenges.
The review states that the new season kicks off with a horrifying case, typical of the Criminal Minds series, yet it takes advantage of the liberties offered by its transition from network TV to a streaming platform.
Additionally, Criminal Minds Season 17 opens with a much-appreciated team bonding event as they come together for Garciaâs birthday celebration, providing a joyful element to the show. Hopefully, there will be more such moments to lighten the otherwise very serious storyline.
Criminal Minds: Evolution on Twitter
See you there. The new season of #CriminalMinds: Evolution is streaming on June 6. pic.twitter.com/60vV8Bz83t
— Criminal Minds: Evolution (@criminalminds) May 3, 2024
The BAU like youâve never seen before. An all-new season of #CriminalMinds: Evolution premieres June 6 on @paramountplus pic.twitter.com/cR3Vlpd44N
— Criminal Minds: Evolution (@criminalminds) May 10, 2024
Wrap Up
As the much-anticipated second season of Criminal Minds: Evolution nears its premiere, get ready for more intense psychological thrills and complex narratives that fans have come to adore.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the BAU team or a newcomer, this season is set to be a compelling continuation of one of the most popular American crime dramas of all time.
So, without further ado, subscribe to ExpressVPN or NordVPN and prepare to watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe on June 6, only on Paramount+.
FAQs
1- Where can I watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe?
Our team of online streaming experts has conducted thorough research and has found that, unfortunately, Criminal Minds Season 17 wonât be available to watch on any of the major European platforms because this show is exclusively owned by Paramount+ in the USA.
The most viable option to watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in European countries is on Paramount+ paired with a reliable premium VPN, such as ExpressVPN or NordVPN.
2- Can I watch Criminal Minds Season 17 on Netflix or Prime Video in Europe?
Netflix does not own the online streaming rights for Criminal Minds in Europe or anywhere else in the world, but Prime Video does offer the series with a Paramount+ add-on in the USA and a couple of other regions.
However, we recommend a much more convenient alternative to watch Criminal Minds Season 17 in Europe: use a premium VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN to connect with an American server and access the show directly on Paramount+.
3- Who is the creator of Criminal Minds?
Criminal Minds was created by none other than Jeff Davis, who is also known for the acclaimed MTV series Teen Wolf.
3- Who is producing Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2?
Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 is produced by ABC Signature and CBS Studios.
4- Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2 Filming Location?
California, USA, and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada served as the two primary filming locations for Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 2.
5- How many episodes will there be in Criminal Minds Season 17?
Criminal Minds Season 17 will have 10 episodes in total.
6- What is the genre of Criminal Minds?
Criminal Minds is a mix of Police procedural, Thriller, Crime drama, and Mystery genres.
