"Criminal Minds" Drops A.J. Cook Contract, Trims Paget Brewster Episodes

"Criminal Minds" is trimming down its female cast members to save on costs. A.J. Cook's contract has not been renewed, while Paget Brewster has been offered to stay for a reduced number of episodes, it has been reported.

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According to Deadline Hollywood, the criminal drama opted to not renew Cook's contract for the next season because of financial reasons. The cost-cutting plan also included cutting back the number of episodes Brewster is expected to appear.

This leaves Kristen Vangsness as the only remaining full-time female cast.

Cook, who plays Jennifer "JJ" Jareau, has been on board the show since the first season, while Brewster, who plays Emily Prentiss, joined the cast during the second season.