LOVING MOORE ~ We've Never Met A Mormon We Didn't Like ~ CRIMINAL MINDS' A.J. Cook

Beautiful A.J. COOK, who stars on TV's CRIMINAL MINDS (although not for much longer) is reportedly a devout Mormon. Word is that A.J., short for Andrea Joy, will only accept roles that don't go against her faith.

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormons) are a family-oriented, patriotic group. There seems to be something special that emanates from Mormons. It might be described as a joy, or peace, that flows from them, and on the whole, Mormons seem to be good, decent people. While we don't subscribe to all of their beliefs, LOVING MOORE certainly respects their values.

We don't know A.J. Cook personally, but she seems to have that special quality that comes from faith.

A.J.'s patriotism was reflected in her stellar reading at the 2010 National Memorial Day Concert. She portrayed the widow of a soldier killed in Iraq. Her moving performance is the video clip posted below:

A.J. was born in Ontario, Canada, and was once a competitive dancer. She has been married for nearly nine years to Nathan Anderson, whom she met at a film class at UVSC. They have one son, Mekhai, who will turn two in September. Her real-life pregnancy was played out in her storyline on CRIMINAL MINDS, when Agent Jennifer Jareau became pregnant by New Orleans Detective Will LaMontegne (Josh Stewart). They made a cute couple, and we were hoping to see more of the characters on the series. Unfortunately, it was not to be. The hierarchy at CBS decided not to renew A.J.'s contract for Season Six.

A.J. could have told CBS where to stick their two episode kiss-off, but she was professional when she showed up to begin filming last week.

Joe Mantegna, CRIMINAL MINDS star, and all-around good guy himself, tweeted that A.J. conducted herself with class when she returned to work for her final days on the series. We didn't expect anything less from this special lady.

LOVING MOORE feels that the decision not to keep her on CRIMINAL MINDS was a mistake. She has a devoted fan base, and there was so much more that could have been done with her character, but it was not to be.

A.J. is celebrating a birthday on Thursday, July 22, when she'll turn thirty-two years old. LOVING MOORE wishes her a HAPPY BIRTHDAY, and best wishes in all of her future endeavors. We know that with her talent, new doors will be opening for her.

Can Kirsten Vangsness Spark Interest in CRIMINAL MINDS Spin-off Series?

Popular CRIMINAL MINDS computer tech, Penelope Garcia, aka Kirsten Vangsness, has been approached to reprise her role on the up coming MINDS spin-off series, "CRIMINAL MINDS: Suspect Behavior," coming to CBS in January, 2011.

The series, which will star Forest Whitaker, and has had a chilly response from fans so far. Most MINDS fans disliked the pilot episode, "The Fight," which aired in April, citing a poor script, lack of chemistry among the characters, and a dislike for the idea of a MINDS spin-off in general.

Kirsten, a gifted comedic actress, is a fan favorite on the original program, beloved for her zany personality and flirtatious banter with the male cast members, especially Derek Morgan, star SHEMAR MOORE'S character. She is pictured with SHEMAR in the bottom photo.

Could the addition of Vangsness to the cast boost interest in the new series? Hum?

Collateral Damage ~ Another CRIMINAL MINDS Loss

Josh Stewart (top photo), who has had a recurrent role on CRIMINAL MINDS for the past three seasons, has secured a role on "No Ordinary Family," a series premiering this fall on ABC. The actor is also a veteran of the series "Dirt" and "Third Watch."

On CRIMINAL MINDS, Stewart portrayed Detective, Will LaMontagne, who connected with Agent Jennifer Jereau (A.J. Cook) while the BAU was working on a case in New Orleans. In fact, they connected so well, that when Cook became pregnant in real life and a pregnant J.J. had to be explained, LaMontagne was written in as the father of J.J.'s baby.

With A.J.'s (bottom photo with SHEMAR MOORE) departure from MINDS coming in the first two episodes of Season 6, we are wondering if Stewart will be involved, or will his commitment to "No Ordinary Family," make him unavailable.

We would like to see Detective LaMontagne again, at least for one or two more episodes, as he is a fan and LOVING MOORE favorite. Alas, regardless of his availability, without J.J. there isn't a storyline for LaMontagne.

The collateral damage of A.J.'s departure, will be the disappearance of the charming, easy-going Detective from New Orleans.

We wish Stewart success on his new series, but MINDS fans will be sad to know that he won't be around any more.

CRIMINAL MINDS and Chili ~ Better The Second TIme

CRIMINAL MINDS is currently showing reruns on Wednesday nights at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT. While some folks dislike sitting through a program a second time, with CRIMINAL MINDS it is often the opportunity to fully appreciate the flavor of the episode.

This week (July 14), "Haunted" will air again. Remembering guest star, Sean Patrick Flanery (top photo), on the cover of Playgirl a few years back, it was hard to picture this hottie in the role of a killer. Young Indiana Jones turned psychopath? Really?

Flanery does an amazing job in "Haunted," as Darrin Call, a man who suffers a psychotic break and goes on a killing spree. As heinous as his crimes may be, he is a sympathetic figure, as his violent and traumatic childhood is revealed.

Also, guest starring in this episode, is Glenn Morshower (bottom photo with Paget Brewster), the bulwark of Federal Agents, through seven seasons of "24." Great seeing him again in an episode adeptly directed by long-time "24" director, Jon Cassar.

Like a warmed over bowl of chili, this one will be delicious. Also starring, SHEMAR MOORE, Joe Mantegna, Thomas Gibson, Matthew Gray Gubler, and A.J. Cook.

CRIMINAL MINDS Cast Returning to Work This Week

First Lola Glaudini left the CRIMINAL MINDS cast at the beginning of the second season. Ho-hum! No one even noticed.

Then Mandy Patinkin left abruptly, just as Season 3 was about to begin filming. There was a wringing of hands and a gnashing of teeth. Oh, what are we going to do without him! Many worried that the series couldn't survive without Mandy. Guess what? CRIMINAL MINDS became every bit as good, if not better after his departure.

Joe Mantegna settled nicely into the role of senior profiler. The cast became more of an ensemble, and less The Mandy Show, and most fans were delighted.

On Wednesday, July 14 the CRIMINAL MINDS cast returns to work on Season 6. This group of remarkable actors, whom we've heard were like a family, is about to lose their little sister. A.J. Cook's contract was not renewed, and she is only appearing in the first two episodes. We're hoping she gets a good send off, not just "I'm leaving to spend more time with my baby." Too lame. She deserves better.

Another sister, Paget Brewster, will be leaving at the end of Season 6.

Will the series survive these cast changes?

It is doubtful that A.J. and Paget will be as forgettable as Lola, or even as Mandy was, after the dust settled. It will hurt to say goodbye to our girls, but if stories are fresh, and the writing top notch, we are betting CRIMINAL MINDS will survive.

CRIMINAL MINDS airs on CBS on Wednesdays at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT. Cast includes: SHEMAR MOORE, Joe Mantegna, Thomas Gibson, Matthew Gray Gubler, Kirsten Vangsness, Paget Brewster and A.J. Cook

Update On Criminal Minds Geek ~ Nicholas Brendon

After an alcohol related run-in with the law back in March, former "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" star and occasional computer geek on "Criminal Minds," actor Nicholas Brendon checked into rehab. As fans of Brendon, we have been hoping the actor would get his life and career back on track. He pleaded no contest to four misdemeanor charges on June 17, and was sentenced to a one year suspended jail sentence, and thirty-six months of probation. He was also ordered to attend anger management classes.

Nick has been making personal appearances this summer and was spotted looking tan and fit at a recent Meet and Greet Event with his fans. (top photo) We are looking forward to seeing him on "Criminal Minds" in Season 6 in his recurrent role as Penelope Garcia's boyfriend, Kevin Lynch. (bottom photo~with Kirsten Vangsness). Here is an adorable clip of Nick with a young fan.

For more photos and Nicholas Brendon news, visit his official website.

http://nickbrendon.com/

Criminal Minds Stars on the Golf Course

The always busy, Joe Mantegna (top photo), attended the 13th Annual Women In Film Malibu Golf Classic on July 10 in Malibu, California.

Joe plays FBI profiler, David Rossi, on the CBS series, CRIMINAL MINDS. His co-star, Thomas Gibson (bottom) is a avid golfer who frequently participates in golf tournaments on his down time from the hit CBS series. Gibson is considered one of the Hollywood's best celebrity golfers.

Not knocking Joe, who is a LOVING MOORE favorite, but judging by his stance in the picture, we are guessing that golf isn't his forte. The BAU's senior profiler looks like he is either at bat, or whacking some weeds.

Joe is known to be a huge baseball fan, but with golf, we're thinking...not so much.

Worthy Charitable Event ~ And The Chance To Meet The CRIMINAL MINDS Cast

CRIMINAL MINDS Executive Producer, Ed Bernero, the cast and crew of the series, and Area 9 Productions are hosting a FILM FESTIVAL EVENT to raise money for the LUNG CANCER FOUNDATION of AMERICA in the name of Andy Swan. Andy is a crew member at CRIMINAL MINDS who has been battling Stage IV cance, since being diagnosed in February.

By supporting this event, you help to raise much needed funds, and have the opportunity to meet the cast of CRIMINAL MINDS, including Joe Mantegna, SHEMAR MOORE, Thomas Gibson, Matthew Gray Gubler, A.J. Cook, Paget Brewster and Kirsten Vangsness.

Three fantastic Door Prizes will be awarded to audience members.
1~A day on the set of CRIMINAL MINDS!!!
2~A $1000 scholarship to Video Sympathy
3~A seven night stay at Global Resort Homes in Orlando, Florida

This July 24 event is a MUST ATTEND event for anyone in the Pasadena Area, and especially for CRIMINAL MINDS/SHEMAR MOORE fans.

August 29 EMMY AWARDS ~ A Night To Forget

The 2010 Emmy Awards were just announced, and, of course, they've never heard of CRIMINAL MINDS.

It wasn't unexpected. Except for two awards for Stunt Coordination, CRIMINAL MINDS has been ignored since the series premiered five seasons ago. It was naive to think that Thomas Gibson (Aaron Hotchner) could possibly be considered Best Lead Actor in a Drama for his stunning performance as the husband of a murdered spouse in "100." It was ridiculous to think that Joe Mantegna might be deserving of a Best Actor nod for his consistently solid role as the patriarchal, senior profiler, David Rossi.

And why would SHEMAR MOORE, who has so adeptly portrayed Derek Morgan this season, an Agent grown dark and brooding from years of doing a difficult job, ever be considered for recognition? Hey, he's just an old soap opera actor.

So on August 29, the night of the Emmy Awards Show ignore the Emmys, as they have ignored CRIMINAL MINDS. Put a CRIMINAL MINDS DVD in your player instead, and enjoy one of the best programs to never get any respect.

(photos: CRIMINAL MINDS cast on the last day of filming Season 5. From left to right~Joe Mantegna, SHEMAR MOORE, Paget Brewster, Matthew Gray Gubler, Kirsten Vangsness, A.J. Cook, and Thomas Gibson. SHEMAR MOORE in "Solitary Man.")

Will Reid Kick In Doors Like Derek Morgan? ~ Interview With Matthew Gray Gubler

Matthew Gray Gubler has been in Europe, promoting CRIMINAL MINDS. He was interviewed at the RomaFiction Fest on July 6 and talked about his role on MINDS, his aspirations to direct and his feelings about acting. In talking about his character, Dr. Spencer Reid, he suggests a new, more self-assured Reid, who may be kicking down doors like Derek Morgan (played by SHEMAR MOORE).

SHEMAR MOORE'S Busy Summer

SHEMAR MOORE has had an active summer while on hiatus from his hit series, "Criminal Minds." After a couple of weeks of vacationing in Brazil, SHEMAR was only home in LA a short time, before being spotted working and playing in exotic Istanbul, Turkey. Now, The Boston Herald is reporting in their Inside Track column, that SHEMAR is in Beantown for his cousin's wedding. SHEMAR, who plays FBI profiler, Derek Morgan, will be returning to work later this month, along with his co-stars Joe Mantegna, Thomas Gibson, and Matthew Gray Gubler.

Matthew Gray Gubler Looking Good

Matthew Gray Gubler has changed his look several times in his five years on the hit CBS series, CRIMINAL MINDS. Matthew, who plays nerdy genius, Dr. Spencer Reid, on the show turned up at the ROMA INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL a few days ago with a short, curly hairdo (top photo). Is The Gube looking...healthier? Sexier? More mature? Whatever it is, he seems to be getting better with age.

Happy Birthday, Kirsten Vangsness!

Happy Birthday, Kirsten!

LOVING MOORE sends birthday wishes to Kirsten Vangsness, who turns 38 on July 7. Kirsten is one of the stars of CRIMINAL MINDS. She plays computer wizard, Penelope Garcia, on the series. What began as a bit part on MINDS, was quickly expanded when her character became a favorite with the fans. She has a particularly good chemistry with series co-star, SHEMAR MOORE (bottom photo). Fans enjoy their flirtations and playful banter. CRIMINAL MINDS will begin work on Season 6 of the series later this month. In addition to Vangsness and Moore, the series stars Joe Mantegna, Thomas Gibson, Matthew Gray Gubler, Paget Brewster, and A.J. Cook.

July 7 on CRIMINAL MINDS ~ Encore: "A Thousand Words"

When a serial killer covered in tattoos commits suicide, he leaves the BAU clues to the identity of his last victim, who may still be alive, on CRIMINAL MINDS, encore episode, Wednesday, July 7. Stars SHEMAR MOORE, Joe Mantegna, Thomas Gibson, Matthew Gray Gubler, Paget Brewster, and A.J. Cook.

"A THOUSAND WORDS" is a little heavy on the guest stars for fans who want to see their favorite profilers at work. Dean Norris (Breaking Bad) and Green Bay Packers Wide Receiver, Greg Jennings, guest star in this one, with Jennings making his acting debut in a scene with SHEMAR MOORE. The episode, which first aired in May, has the team working backward to save a serial killer's last victim. Edward Allen Bernero, who is the series Executive Producer, and who is one of MIND'S best writers, penned this one.

Vote For CRIMINAL MINDS in New Poll

TELEVISION WITHOUT PITY

has posted some neat polls on their web site.

You can vote for CRIMINAL MINDS in several of twenty-four categories.

Among them are~ Best Single Episode in a Drama Series ~ "100"

Worst Single Episode in a Drama Series ~ "The Fight" ~ which most MINDS loyalists detested. This is your chance to express your opinion on that awful episode.

Best Hell Yeah Moment ~ Hotch Beats Foyet to Death

and more.....

If you want to join in the fun, here is the link to their site to vote in the TUBEY AWARDS.

http://www.televisionwithoutpity.com/tubey.php

Thomas Gibson Celebrates A Birthday on July 3

Happy Birthday to Thomas Gibson!

LOVING MOORE sends Best Wishes to Thomas Gibson.

Gibson, one of the co-stars of the hit CBS series, "Criminal Minds," turns forty-eight on July 3.

The series also stars SHEMAR MOORE, Joe Mantegna, Matthew Gray Gubler, Paget Brewster, A.J. Cook and Kirsten Vangsness.

Tom and the cast will begin work on Season 6 later this month.