Adam Rodriguez Joins Criminal Minds: Unpacking the Versatile Star Replacing Shemar Moore

The landscape of CBS’s long-running hit procedural, Criminal Minds, underwent a significant shift with the departure of beloved original cast member Shemar Moore. Stepping into this pivotal role for Season 12 is the immensely talented and charismatic actor, Adam Rodriguez. At 41 years old, Rodriguez is poised to inject fresh energy into the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) as a new series regular, portraying an agent from the FBI Fugitive Task Force. While his face is new to the halls of Quantico, Adam Rodriguez is a familiar and celebrated presence across television and film screens. From iconic drama to blockbuster comedies, he has carved out a diverse and impressive career. For those eager to learn more about the man joining one of TV’s most compelling casts, HollywoodLife.com has compiled an in-depth look at five essential facts you need to know about Adam Rodriguez.

1. From Miami-Dade to the BAU: His Iconic Role as Eric Delko on CSI: Miami

For many viewers, Adam Rodriguez is synonymous with his portrayal of Eric Delko on the hugely popular crime procedural, CSI: Miami. This role became a cornerstone of his career, establishing him as a prominent face in network television for an impressive ten seasons. As part of the Miami-Dade Crime Lab, Delko wasn’t just another investigator; he was a multi-faceted expert, specializing in fingerprint, tire, and drug identification. His expertise didn’t stop there; Delko also served as the team’s invaluable underwater recovery expert, often diving into Florida’s murky waters to uncover crucial evidence. Co-starring alongside David Caruso, Rodriguez’s character was central to countless investigations, evolving significantly throughout the show’s tenure.

Throughout his decade on CSI: Miami, Eric Delko experienced a dramatic character arc, facing personal tragedies, professional challenges, and intense romantic relationships that kept audiences captivated. His dedication to his work, loyalty to his team, and complex emotional journey made him a fan favorite. Rodriguez’s ability to portray a character with both intellectual prowess and a deep sense of humanity was key to Delko’s enduring appeal. This extensive experience in a high-stakes investigative drama makes him an exceptionally well-suited addition to the Criminal Minds ensemble, where similar themes of intricate crime-solving and intense character development are paramount. His long history with a successful procedural means he understands the rhythm, demands, and nuances of such a role, promising a seamless transition into the BAU.

2. Stealing Hearts on Empire and Adding Charm to Jane the Virgin

Beyond his procedural drama roots, Adam Rodriguez has showcased remarkable versatility by taking on significant recurring roles in two of television’s most talked-about series: Fox’s music industry drama, Empire, and The CW’s critically acclaimed dramedy, Jane the Virgin. These roles highlighted his ability to navigate different genres and portray complex love interests, further solidifying his status as a captivating performer.

In Season 2 of Empire, Rodriguez joined the star-studded cast as Laz Delgado, a charming and mysterious concert promoter who quickly became a love interest for the fierce and unforgettable Cookie Lyon. His character brought a layer of intrigue and romance, challenging Cookie in ways that resonated with viewers. Laz’s smooth demeanor and complicated background added significant dramatic weight to the season, showcasing Rodriguez’s talent for embodying characters with hidden depths and magnetic appeal. His chemistry with Taraji P. Henson was undeniable, making their storyline one of the season’s highlights.

Simultaneously, Rodriguez graced the screens of Jane the Virgin during its second season, enchanting audiences as Jonathan Chavez, a literature professor. He became a temporary love interest for the titular character, Gina Rodriguez’s Jane Villanueva. In a show celebrated for its unique blend of telenovela tropes and heartfelt drama, Adam’s portrayal brought a grounded yet romantic presence. His character offered Jane a period of intellectual and emotional connection, providing a memorable chapter in her tumultuous love life. These roles on two vastly different, yet equally popular and critically lauded shows, cemented Adam Rodriguez’s reputation as an actor capable of delivering compelling performances across the spectrum of television storytelling, whether in gritty drama or whimsical romance.

3. Flexing Muscles and Charisma in Magic Mike and Magic Mike XXL

Adam Rodriguez truly captured the world’s attention with his unforgettable role as Tito in the highly successful films Magic Mike (2012) and its sequel, Magic Mike XXL (2015). These movies, which delved into the lives of male strippers, allowed Rodriguez to showcase a completely different facet of his acting prowess, alongside his impressive physique. As part of the electrifying stripping troupe, he shared the screen with an ensemble of Hollywood heavyweights, including Channing Tatum, Joe Manganiello, and Matt Bomer.

Tito was more than just a dancer; he was an integral part of the group’s camaraderie and a performer whose routines were among the most memorable. Rodriguez’s dedication to the role was evident, as he underwent rigorous physical training to embody the character convincingly. His performances were marked by undeniable charisma, sharp dance moves, and a powerful stage presence that captivated both his on-screen audience and moviegoers. The films highlighted not only the physical demands of the profession but also the underlying humanity and dreams of the characters. Adam’s role in the Magic Mike franchise allowed him to break free from the constraints of procedural dramas, revealing his comedic timing, dramatic depth, and magnetic appeal to a global audience, proving he could shine brightly on the big screen in a truly unique and physically demanding role.

4. A Leading Man in Music Videos: From J.Lo to 50 Cent

Before becoming a household name in television and film, Adam Rodriguez honed his performance skills and gained significant visibility through appearances in numerous high-profile music videos. This avenue provided him with an early platform to showcase his captivating presence and acting chops, often playing the dashing love interest or a compelling character in visual narratives that accompanied some of the biggest songs of their time.

One of his most notable early appearances was in Jennifer Lopez’s iconic 1999 music video for “If You Had My Love.” In this groundbreaking video, which was one of the first to heavily feature online interaction, Rodriguez played Lopez’s boyfriend, observed through webcams. His role was pivotal in setting the scene for the song’s themes of trust and surveillance in a relationship, contributing significantly to the video’s success and its cultural impact. This collaboration put him in front of millions of viewers at the peak of J.Lo’s early career.

Rodriguez’s music video repertoire didn’t stop there. He also starred in Busta Rhymes’ “Respect My Conglomerate,” a star-studded cinematic video that featured many hip-hop luminaries. His dramatic turn in Lionel Richie’s soulful “I Call It Love” showcased his ability to convey emotion without dialogue, playing a key role in the romantic storyline. Furthermore, he appeared in 50 Cent’s introspective track “Many Men (Wish Death),” adding gravitas to the narrative of struggle and survival. These diverse appearances in music videos for genre-spanning artists demonstrated Adam Rodriguez’s versatility and strong screen presence early in his career, making him a recognizable face long before his major television roles.

5. A Dedicated Family Man: Marriage and Fatherhood

Away from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Adam Rodriguez is a devoted family man. On May 2, 2016, he exchanged vows with his longtime love, model Grace Gail, in a beautiful ceremony held in Italy. The picturesque setting provided a romantic backdrop for the couple to formalize their commitment after years together. Their union was a celebrated event, attended by close friends and family, marking a significant milestone in Adam’s personal life.

Prior to their marriage, Adam and Grace welcomed their daughter, Frankie, into the world in 2014. Fatherhood has clearly been a transformative experience for Rodriguez, who often shares glimpses of his joy and pride in his family life. Despite the demanding schedule that comes with a successful acting career, Adam prioritizes his family, often speaking about the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with quality time spent with his wife and daughter. His commitment to his family underscores a grounded and authentic personality, adding another layer of depth to the public persona of the talented actor. This blend of professional success and a strong personal foundation makes Adam Rodriguez not just a compelling actor, but a well-rounded and admirable individual. His personal happiness and stability likely contribute to the steady and confident performances audiences have come to expect from him.

Welcome to the BAU: Adam Rodriguez’s New Chapter on Criminal Minds

As Adam Rodriguez embarks on this exciting new chapter with Criminal Minds, bringing his experience, charm, and talent to the FBI Fugitive Task Force, fans of the show and new viewers alike have much to look forward to. His diverse career, spanning from the intense investigations of CSI: Miami to the captivating love stories of Empire and Jane the Virgin, and the cinematic spectacle of Magic Mike, truly prepares him for any challenge the BAU might throw his way. His arrival promises to bring a fresh dynamic to the beloved cast, filling the void left by Shemar Moore with his own unique blend of intensity and charisma.

HollywoodLifers, are you eagerly anticipating Adam Rodriguez’s debut on Criminal Minds? What aspects of his past work do you think will best prepare him for his role as a new FBI agent? Share your thoughts and excitement in the comments below!