Interview With Executive Producer Harry Bring Of Criminal Minds

Interview With Executive Producer Harry Bring 

News recently was released that Criminal Minds would have its 15th and final season. I got the chance to have a catch-up and chat with the shows Executive Producer Harry Bring to see what everyone's thoughts were and what's coming next. Its always a pleasure to chat with Harry, He's really one for the fans. 

AJ Cook recently made her Directorial Debut on episode 13 of season 14. What was it like getting to work with her as a director?

HB: AJ was absolutely the best. She was so great and did an amazing job for her first time.

I’m sorry, she didn’t get the opportunity in earlier seasons so she could have directed more episodes. She will make a great director, especially if she makes that her goal overacting.

The news recently came out that Criminal Minds would end with a final 15th season with a run of 10 episodes, Is there anything you can share about that?

HB: Doing 15 seasons put CM in elite company. I think there are only 10-12 other TV single-camera dramas that can say that, since the start of TV series (65 years)

Fans really don't want to see the show end, Do you believe it's time to let go of the long running crime drama, Especially with all the uncertainty over the last few seasons?

 HB: I think CM could go on for quite a few more years. There is such a huge following of our show internationally that the demand will always be there. Crime shows, in general, are extremely popular and CM is unique to the normal crime procedurals. Other shows have tried to copy CM but so far none have been as good in my humble opinion.

What was your reaction to finding out The show will be ending?

HB: I was sad to hear that CBS no longer wanted to air the show. We did realize that all good things must come to an end so it wasn’t a shocker. Mark Gordon does not want the show to end and I know he will try and sell the show to another outlet. There are Netflix, Hulu, and streaming opportunities so things might not be dead yet.

What was the casts and crews reaction to the show ending?

HB:  The cast was not surprised and those that have been here since the beginning were sad. The cast was excited to go out with a bang and make it the best season ever. About 70% of our crew have been on the show since 2005 and that length of time is record-setting. I’ve only been on the show since 2010 and that seems record-setting.

Can you give us any details to what we can expect from season 15, will fans be happy with what's to come?

 HB: All I know is that there will be more personal life stories on the last season along with solving the crime of the week. Each episode will have one cast member showcased. Exciting.

Will we see any old cast members or recurring cast appear in the final season?

HB: Unknown to me as yet. It has been talked about but not sure if it will happen. I’ll bet the creative team will try.

Lots of fans are hoping for a happy ending for all our favorite characters,and there families do you believe we will see that?

HB: I am sure there will be happy endings for all the characters. Our show will definitely want the fans to go out smiling. Plus, if there is life for CM after CBS then there has to be openings for stories to continue.

What's next for you, once the show finishes?

HB: I really want to retire, or semi-retire. When I came to the show in season 7 I thought CM would go on for 2, maybe 3 more seasons, and then I would retire. I’ve been doing this since 1964. Blessed and rewarded. But it’s time to slow down for me. Erica Messer and Mark Gordon has mentioned me just doing a pilot here and there and that sounds good for me. A pilot lasts about 3 months and that activity would be perfect. Keeping busy is healthy for me so keeping my fingers in it on occasion sounds great.

Don't miss the season 14 finale Wednesday 6th Feb 10/9C CBS ! In the USA! 

UK dates still to follow season 14 Returns Monday 11th Feb 9PM only on Sky Living

Season 15 will have 10 episodes dates still to follow! 

All Photos are from Harry Bring's social media. All Rights to Him.