Current status overview
As of 2026, Criminal Minds is not producing new episodes on broadcast or cable TV and has not aired on U.S. television since its original run ended. The series finale aired in 2022, following its move from CBS to Paramount+. The show is not currently in production or on any major U.S. network schedule. You can watch the full series on streaming platforms, with availability varying by region and license. Below is a detailed breakdown of its broadcast history, current availability, and what "still airing" means in this context.
What "still airing" means for scripted series
For long-running procedural dramas, "still airing" can refer to several timelines:
- Original linear/network run (initial broadcast)
- Repeats and syndication on cable or local affiliates
- Availability via streaming and on-demand services
- Revivals, reboots, or continuation series
Because the show has ended, no new episodes are scheduled on any linear network. Past seasons remain accessible through streaming and digital purchase, which can create the impression that the show is "still on" when, in fact, it is in rerun/evergreen distribution mode.
Key timelines
Below are verified milestones that frame when the show was actively producing and broadcasting new episodes.
Broadcast and streaming availability table
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 2005–2016 | Original CBS run | Network television premiere to season 11 |
| 2014 | Streaming debut on Netflix (U.S.) | First long-term streaming home; built evergreen access |
| 2016–2020 | CBS All Access (Paramount+ predecessor) | Live and on-demand episodes under one service |
| 2022 | Series finale on Paramount+ | Final episode; no new production ordered |
| 2023–2026 | Available to stream on Paramount+ and licensed services | Access depends on regional licensing; repeats may rotate |
Current streaming and purchase options
As of 2026, the most consistent U.S. streaming home is Paramount+, with all seasons available in the catalog where licensed. You can also rent or buy individual episodes and seasons on major digital stores such as Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Vudu. Availability on free ad-supported services varies by month, so check your region’s service list for the latest lineup. If you are outside the U.S., look for local streaming providers that have secured rights; libraries and campus networks sometimes include the show in their digital collections.
Reruns, syndication, and cable presence
Because Criminal Minds has ended, it does not receive first-run syndication in the way newer hits might. Some local stations and cable channels may air marathons or weekend blocks sourced from digital masters, but there is no regular nightly schedule on major broadcast or basic cable in the U.S. Expect programming to be sporadic and tied to special event blocks rather than a permanent time slot.
Revival, continuation, and related series
There is no revival or new season of the original Criminal Minds series in production. A short-lived spin-off titled Criminal Minds: Evolution was released as a single event season on Paramount+ in 2023 and does not currently have new episodes ordered. Related projects in development focus on different characters rather than continuing the original show. Therefore, if you are waiting for new weekly episodes on a network, none are scheduled.
How to stay updated on future releases
To track any new seasons or limited series, follow official announcements from CBS Studios and Paramount Global communications channels. Reliable sources include the official Paramount+ blog, press releases from parent company Paramount Global, and trusted entertainment news outlets that report on renewal decisions. Avoid assuming a show is "still airing" simply because full seasons remain on a streaming service; instead, check for greenlit production announcements for any new episodic content.
Quick reference comparison
| Platform | Availability (2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Paramount+ | All seasons | Primary streaming home; license can change by region |
| Digital purchase (Apple, Amazon, etc.) | Episodes and seasons | Permanent ownership; no subscription required |
| Free ad-supported services | Occasional; varies | Limited by rights; check monthly |
| Linear cable/satellite | None scheduled | No regular rerun blocks as of 2026 |
Bottom line
Criminal Minds is not still airing new episodes on television in 2026. The series concluded with a finale in 2022 and is available to stream in full on Paramount+ and for purchase on digital platforms. There are no upcoming seasons or weekly broadcasts on U.S. networks. If you want to watch the show, you can access all 16 seasons on streaming or buy episodes digitally. To stay informed about any future projects, follow official studio announcements rather than assuming ongoing linear television presence.