The streaming landscape is ever-evolving, and the departure of a beloved show like “Criminal Minds” from Netflix can leave fans wondering where to find their favorite crime drama. This article aims to guide you through the various options available for watching “Criminal Minds” after it leaves Netflix, ensuring you can continue to enjoy the thrilling investigations of the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). From alternative streaming services to purchasing the series, we’ll explore the most convenient and cost-effective solutions to keep your Criminal Minds addiction alive.
The Departure of Criminal Minds from Netflix
Netflix, one of the world’s leading streaming platforms, has been home to a vast library of TV shows and movies for several years. However, content agreements and licensing deals are dynamic, causing some titles to come and go. Unfortunately, “Criminal Minds” is one of the shows that has left the Netflix catalog.
The departure of “Criminal Minds” from Netflix marked a significant change for the show’s fan base, which spans the globe. This procedural crime drama, known for its gripping cases and compelling characters, has garnered a dedicated following over its 15-season run. If you’re one of the many fans who relied on Netflix for their “Criminal Minds” fix, it’s time to explore alternative options.
CBS All Access, Now Paramount+
For those who don’t want to bid farewell to the BAU team, subscribing to CBS All Access, which has since been rebranded as Paramount+, is a great alternative. Paramount+ is a streaming service offered by ViacomCBS that provides access to a plethora of content from the CBS network, including all seasons of “Criminal Minds.”
Paramount+ offers different subscription tiers, allowing you to choose the one that suits your preferences and budget. By subscribing to Paramount+, you gain unlimited access to not only “Criminal Minds” but also an extensive library of CBS shows, live TV, and exclusive content.
This is a convenient option for those who are already fans of CBS programming or are looking for a one-stop solution for all their favorite CBS shows.
Hulu: Another Streaming Haven
Hulu, another popular streaming platform, is known for its extensive library of TV shows and movies. While it doesn’t have as many seasons of “Criminal Minds” as Netflix once did, it still offers an opportunity to catch up on the early seasons of the show.
Hulu typically offers a rotating selection of content, which means that the availability of “Criminal Minds” on the platform may vary. However, if you’re looking to binge-watch the earlier seasons or rewatch your favorite episodes, Hulu can be an excellent choice. Be sure to check its catalog regularly to see if “Criminal Minds” is available during your subscription period.
Amazon Prime Video: Buy and Stream
If you’re not interested in subscribing to another streaming service but still want to have “Criminal Minds” at your fingertips, Amazon Prime Video provides an option to purchase and stream individual episodes or entire seasons.
Amazon Prime Video allows you to buy episodes or complete seasons of “Criminal Minds” on a pay-per-view basis. Once purchased, these episodes or seasons are stored in your Amazon library, accessible at any time. This option is ideal for those who prefer to own their digital content.
Though it might be a more costly approach if you plan to purchase all 15 seasons, it gives you the freedom to watch “Criminal Minds” whenever you want without relying on a subscription service.
Physical Media: The DVD and Blu-ray Route
For those who prefer a more tangible way to enjoy their favorite series, “Criminal Minds” is available on DVD and Blu-ray. You can purchase individual seasons or even the complete box set of the entire series.
This option offers the advantage of a physical collection that can be kept as a collector’s item or shared with friends and family. It’s also a great choice for fans who want to enjoy the show even in locations without a reliable internet connection.
While owning the physical media can be a satisfying way to watch “Criminal Minds,” it’s worth considering that it might be a pricier investment compared to streaming services.
Digital Purchase on iTunes and Google Play
If you prefer a digital collection but don’t want to commit to a particular platform like Amazon, iTunes and Google Play provide an alternative solution. Both platforms allow you to purchase and download individual episodes or full seasons of “Criminal Minds.”
iTunes and Google Play offer the flexibility to watch your purchased content on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. You can buy episodes as you go or opt for entire seasons, making it a convenient choice for fans who want to pick and choose their favorite episodes or seasons.
Network Websites and Apps
Network websites and apps are often overlooked sources for catching up on TV shows. In the case of “Criminal Minds,” you may be able to stream episodes for free, albeit with ads, on the CBS website or app. This is typically limited to a selection of recent episodes and not the entire series.
Networks like CBS often make episodes available for a limited time after they air on television. If you don’t mind watching with ads and can keep up with the schedule, this can be a cost-effective way to stay up to date with the latest episodes of “Criminal Minds.”
Consider Other Streaming Platforms
Apart from the major streaming platforms mentioned earlier, it’s worth keeping an eye on smaller, specialized streaming services that may acquire the rights to “Criminal Minds” in the future. As the show’s licensing agreements change, it could become available on new platforms.
Keep in mind that streaming availability may differ by region, so consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access “Criminal Minds” on platforms that might not be available in your country.
Revisit A&E’s Cable Broadcasts
A&E, a cable network known for its true crime and investigative content, has been a home to “Criminal Minds” reruns. The network occasionally airs marathons of the show, allowing you to rewatch your favorite episodes or catch up on the series if you missed it during its initial run.
Cable and satellite TV subscribers may find A&E included in their channel lineup. If you’re still subscribed to a cable or satellite service, check your local listings for A&E’s schedule to find out when “Criminal Minds” is being broadcast.
Be Patient and Keep an Eye on Licensing Changes
Licensing agreements for TV shows can be complex and subject to change. What’s unavailable today may become accessible on a different platform in the future. Be patient and keep an eye on announcements and updates regarding the availability of “Criminal Minds.”
Streaming services frequently compete for the rights to popular shows, and as the popularity of “Criminal Minds” endures, it’s likely to find a new streaming home. Joining fan communities or subscribing to streaming news outlets can help you stay informed about any future developments.
Conclusion
The departure of “Criminal Minds” from Netflix may have left some fans in a state of uncertainty, but there are numerous options available to continue watching this beloved crime drama. From streaming on Paramount+ and Hulu to purchasing episodes on Amazon Prime Video, owning physical copies on DVD or Blu-ray, or buying digitally on iTunes and Google Play, you have a range of choices to suit your preferences and budget.
Additionally, network websites and apps, as well as the occasional cable broadcasts on A&E, offer alternative methods to enjoy the show. Be patient and keep an eye on changes in licensing agreements, as the availability of “Criminal Minds” on various platforms may evolve over time.
In the world of streaming, variety is key, and with the options presented in this article, you can ensure that you won’t have to bid farewell to the thrilling investigations of the Behavioral Analysis Unit. Whether you choose to subscribe to a new streaming service or own your digital collection, “Criminal Minds” can remain a staple in your TV-watching routine.
