Penelope Garcia, the beloved character from Criminal Minds, left the show in the Season 15 finale. Her departure was because she accepted a job offer at a private research company in Silicon Valley that focused on climate crisis- related issues. This new job was less emotionally taxing and provided her with the work-life balance and change she desired. The character's exit was also intended as a meaningful farewell as the original series ended. Afterward, she was later brought back in the spinoff Criminal Minds: Evolution.
Details on Penelope Garcia's Departure
- She had been a hacker before joining the FBI's BAU and brought unique computer skills to the team.
- The emotional toll of the intense FBI work contributed to her decision to leave.
- The job she took after leaving was with a private research company addressing climate change issues.
- This career move allowed her a break from the emotionally demanding work of the BAU.
- Her departure was written with the consent of actress Kirsten Vangsness, who co-wrote the series finale episode.
- The farewell scene included personal touches indicative of her new beginning and hinted relationships.
This departure took place around the 2020 ending of the original Criminal Minds series after 15 seasons.
