A.J. Cook, who played Jennifer "JJ" Jareau on Criminal Minds, left the show during Season 6 primarily due to financial reasons. The studio was aiming to reduce costs and consequently let go of Cook and fellow star Paget Brewster. In the storyline, JJ was written off by being assigned a special task at the Pentagon. Fans strongly opposed her exit, sending numerous letters and petitions, which led to Cook's return later in Season 6 and her reinstatement as a regular character by Season 7. There were also speculations of "creative differences" and claims that the network sought to replace the original actresses with younger women, leading to accusations of sexism. The decision was mainly a network budget and casting strategy rather than anything related to Cook's performance or desires.
