Welcome to this week’s installment of Geek Girl Authority Crush of the Week, wherein we spotlight strong women and non-binary folks who inspire us. These characters are prime examples of empowerment and how crucial it is for youth to have said examples to follow.
DISCLAIMER: The following contains spoilers for Paramount+’s Criminal Minds: Evolution, particularly Emily Prentiss’s arc. Proceed at your peril.
Criminal Minds: Emily Prentiss
Fast Facts
Emily Prentiss (Paget Brewster) joined the BAU during Criminal Minds Season 2. While she might not have clicked with the entire team in the beginning, she quickly became a fan-favorite character. Over time, she proved to everyone in the BAU that she was worthy of her spot and that her mother’s connections had no bearing on how she achieved that position.
Prentiss’s career has always been closely tied to Interpol, particularly during her time in London. That has prepared her to handle the different suspects they worked with in the BAU. However, that also brought on one of Prentiss’s biggest enemies.
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On Season 6 Episode 18, “Lauren,” Prentiss is seemingly killed by Doyle. When working undercover, she had been in a relationship with Doyle to gain closer access to him and achieve her target. Years later, Doyle discovered her true identity and came after her. Even though the BAU did everything they could to protect her, the season ends with viewers and most of the team believing Emily was killed.
However, when Season 7 began, the truth was revealed. JJ (A.J. Cook) and Hotch (Thomas Gibson) were the only two to know Prentiss was actually hiding in Paris. This had strong repercussions for the entire team, as they were upset that they had been lied to. They had a funeral and mourned the loss of one of their friends, which caused many of them to keep their distance when Prentiss returned to the team.
The Real Deal
When the team returned for Criminal Minds: Evolution, Prentiss returned as Section Chief, occupying the role that once belonged to Erin Strauss (Jayne Atkinson). While Rossi (Joe Mantegna) was supposed to be BAU Chief, Prentiss had to cover for him as he was still mourning the loss of his wife. With Rossi off chasing ghosts, Prentiss had to lead the team.
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Prentiss has done an extraordinary job of leading the team as they continue to chase Sicarius. At one point, she was tricked by someone promising more evidence. Instead, she ended up in jail for a short period while the team proved she had been tricked.
Why Emily Prentiss Matters
Ever since joining the show, Emily Prentiss has been viewed as a leader. Eventually, this came true and she began leading the team. Criminal Minds: Evolution has proven that Prentiss was always meant to be the boss.
So, be like Emily Prentiss. Pretend to die if it will protect those you love. Own at least one cat. Trust your team will always get you out of jail. Lead with conviction and dedication. And never be afraid to look good while kicking ass.
Criminal Minds: Evolution returns Thursday, April 8, on Paramount+.
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