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David Rossi
Criminal Minds character
Joe Mantegna as David Rossi
First appearance"About Face"
3x06, October 31, 2007
(on Criminal Minds)
"The Harmful One"
1x01, March 16, 2016
(on Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders)
Created byEdward Allen Bernero
Portrayed byJoe Mantegna
(Original)
Robert Dunne
(Young)
Other appearancesCriminal Minds: Beyond Borders
In-universe information
NicknameRossi, Dave, The Italian, Papa Pasta, Papa Rossi, Stallion the Italian
GenderMale
TitleFBI BAU Supervisory Special Agent
FBI BAU Former Unit Chief (replaced)
OccupationFBI Special Agent
USMC Sergeant Major (retired)
FamilySal (uncle; deceased)
Rosie (aunt; deceased)
Kai Struthers (grandson)
Shawn Struthers (son-in-law) Joy Rossi (daughter)
SpouseKrystall Richards
(wife; deceased)
Hayden Montgomery
(ex-wife; 1 daughter and 1 grandson)
Carolyn Rossi
(ex-wife; 1 son; deceased)
ChildrenJames David Rossi
(son, with Carolyn; deceased)
Joy Struthers (daughter, with Hayden)
Portia Richards
(stepdaughter)
NationalityItalian-American
Seasons3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18

David Stephen Rossi is a fictional character in the CBS crime drama Criminal Minds, portrayed by Joe Mantegna. He is a Supervisory Special Agent in the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit, and has appeared from the episode "About Face", which was originally broadcast on October 31, 2007, during the show's third season. He is also portrayed as a younger man by Robert Dunne, in flashbacks as a Marine infantry private in Vietnam in 1969 and in his earlier years with the BAU in 1978.

Rossi begins the series returning to the FBI after a lengthy period of being semi-retired, with his return due to "unfinished business". He is shown to be a close friend and colleague of Aaron Hotchner (Thomas Gibson), as they worked together during the early days of the Behavioral Analysis Unit. Rossi is also a writer and one of the team's senior and most decorated profilers. He replaced Jason Gideon, who was written out following Mandy Patinkin's abrupt departure from the series.

Mantegna has stated in an interview that the character was named after one of the policemen who had testified at the O. J. Simpson trial.[1][2] Rossi's middle name, Stephen, is revealed in a flashback near the end of the tenth season episode, "Nelson's Sparrow".

Storylines

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Backstory

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Rossi was born and raised on Long Island, New York, in the town of Commack.E503 As a child, he was friends with a young Emma Taylor, whom he refers to as the "one who got away". He was also close with Ray Finnegan (William Sadler), who eventually grew up to be a prominent local mobster. Rossi, however, avoided the lure of organized crime, and enlisted in the Marine Corps. He also admits in season 9, while interrogating a suspect, that when he was a teenager, he stuffed a Black teammate on his baseball team into a locker and urinated on him because of peer pressure from his other, white teammates. He says he has felt ashamed of it ever since, and that he considers it the worst thing he ever did.

Details of his military service are sketchy, as Rossi rarely talks about it. He served in the Vietnam War and rose to the rank of sergeant major before retiring from the Marine Corps; based on the backstory timelines, specifically the time in service required to rise to the rank of sergeant major and retire, he presumably served in the Marine Corps Reserve after joining the FBI.E703 In the Season 8 episode "The Fallen", Rossi encounters his old unit commander, Sgt. Harrison Scott (Meshach Taylor), who has since become a homeless alcoholic living on the streets of Santa Monica, California. Through flashbacks, it is shown that Scott had saved Rossi's life in Vietnam when Rossi froze at an oncoming Viet Cong soldier. It is implied that they both served in the 1st Marine Division.

After being discharged from active duty, he was recruited by the FBI. He subsequently cut most ties with his former life, not even returning to Commack for Emma's funeral in early 2009. Rossi has had an illustrious FBI career and enjoys a sterling reputation, even outside the BAU confines. He claims to have "written the book" on hostage negotiation, and in one episode steps in as a negotiator when his fellow agents Spencer Reid (Matthew Gray Gubler) and Emily Prentiss (Paget Brewster) are being held hostage.E403 He takes an annual leave to do cross-country lecture and book-signing tours, which apparently attract a lot of female fans, "if Barry Manilow isn't in town."E402E415 He had worked with Hotchner prior to his initial retirement from the Bureau. To date Rossi has been married three times, but he has said the only people he knows how to make happy are "divorce lawyers".E318

In season seven, he reconnects with his first wife, Carolyn (Isabella Hofmann), who tells him she is dying of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and asks him to help her end her suffering. After some deliberation, he tells her he cannot bring himself to help her commit suicide, only to find that she has already taken an overdose of her medication. As she dies in his arms, she asks, "Do you think he'll be there?" Rossi replies, "I know he will." At the end of the episode, the "he" in question is revealed to be their son James, who died moments after being born, and whom Rossi buries her next to.

In season 9, it is revealed that his second wife, Hayden Montgomery (Sheryl Lee Ralph), is African American, and later in season 10 he discovers she was pregnant when they divorced, and that he has a daughter, Joy (Amber Stevens), and a grandson.

Rossi has a romantic relationship with BAU Bureau Chief Erin Strauss (Jayne Atkinson), hinted at throughout the series starting late in season 7. The full details of the affair are never disclosed, but he reveals his feelings for her when she is murdered by serial killer John Curtis (Mark Hamill), aka "The Replicator"; upon learning of her death, the usually unflappable Rossi becomes deeply emotional. At the end of the season, he kills Curtis to save his fellow agents' lives, thus avenging Strauss' murder.

Despite growing up on Long Island, Rossi is apparently a Chicago Cubs fan, judging by the Cubs gear in his Quantico office.E319

It is hinted that he plays video games, as BAU Technical Analyst Penelope Garcia (Kirsten Vangsness) mentions a report of an abducted child named "Niko Bellic", who Rossi points out to be a character from Grand Theft Auto IV. Also, in a season 8 episode, Rossi shows familiarity with the game "Gods of Combat", a fictionalized PC game which corrupts the minds of several young murder suspects.

Personality

[edit]

In contrast to Hotchner and Gideon, Rossi is decisively extroverted, abrasive, and much less cerebral, though still highly intelligent and disciplined. In one episode, Prentiss describes him as a "fussy, anal-retentive neat-freak who never leaves anything out of place", even color-coding his notes (blue pen for evidentiary items, red pen for supposition and theory).E314 He seems to favor less polished, more traditional police methods in profiling and interrogation - for example, he has no idea what a PDA is.E314 Nevertheless, he, Reid, and Gideon are the only characters who are known for being prolific writers. In later episodes, it is implied that he is more technically savvy than he was when first seen - in "Epilogue", he attributes his tiredness to a long session of Rock Band and not enough coffee the night before, but he also claims to have "wiped the floor" with Ringo Starr in the process, apparently on a high difficulty level.

Rossi is apparently something of a playboy, judging by what Agent Jennifer "JJ" Jareau (A.J. Cook) says to Garcia: "From what I hear, Rossi is the reason most of these fraternization rules even exist." On one occasion he has come into a team meeting late and with an undone tie, leading colleague Derek Morgan (Shemar Moore) to ask if he is "working on wife number four".

It is implied that Rossi is quite wealthy. At times, he has deliberately flaunted his financial security to his superiors - for example, mentioning to Strauss during an interrogation session his grievances about how the price of gold is going up, and having to figure out when to sell. His wealth is also indicated by Rossi's favorite type of shoe (Italian suede), and an Italian Renaissance artwork he has in his office. In one episode, he also gives a young Catholic girl a check for $500 when she takes her First Holy Communion. In "Zoe's Reprise", he secretly pays for a young girl's funeral who was a fan of his books and was murdered the night she met Rossi. Also in season seven, Rossi makes his wealth apparent when the team coerces him to bankroll a sting at a poker tournament rather than going through FBI channels for funding. In another episode, Rossi believes that a suspect's monogrammed shirt is a clue to his real name; he states that such shirts are expensive, adding "trust me." At the end of season 7, Rossi hosts a lavish party at his house, where he later hosts Jareau and William LaMontagne, Jr.'s (Josh Stewart) wedding.

On the job

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Rossi was in early retirement until his voluntary return to the BAU in 2007, replacing Jason Gideon (Mandy Patinkin). Rossi had retired in order to write books and go on lecture tours, but he returned to "settle some unfinished business". As he had served in an early form of the BAU, it was initially hard for Rossi to acclimate to the current team structure, but he eventually adjusted.

Rossi revealed to a local sheriff his reason for returning to the BAU, holding out a charm bracelet with the names of three children from one of his first cases.E314 The children had found their parents bludgeoned to death in the family home with an axe. After going unsolved for 20 years, the case found that a mentally disabled carny clown had committed the murders accidentally when he broke into the house to play with the oldest daughter. The father had surprised the man in the parents' bedroom and triggered the resulting attacks.E314 After the murders, Rossi had purchased the family's home to assist the children's grandmother, who was raising them following their parents' death. Rossi returned the house to the children, with the request that they use the proceeds to better their lives.

In "Hanley Waters", as he is being interviewed about Prentiss' "apparent death" by Hotchner instead of Strauss, he reveals that he feels more married to his job than to his three ex-wives. He even proposes a toast with Hotchner, to commemorate Prentiss and Hotchner's deceased wife Haley (Meredith Monroe).

In the season six finale, he is almost shot in the face by a suspect pretending to be a victim of human trafficking; however, Morgan's quick reaction saves his life. Later he meets Jareau in his office after solving the case. She meets him to let him know that she is returning to the team.

In season seven, Rossi is just as surprised as the others to learn that Prentiss is alive. However, in "Proof", he mentions to Hotchner that he had an inkling that Prentiss wasn't dead. As he has no children from his previous marriages, Rossi has adopted the BAU team as his own family and invites them to his house for dinner.E702

In "Profiling 101", convicted serial killer Tommy Yates (Adam Nelson) boasts to Rossi about killing and mutilating a total of 101 women and gives him a list of 40 victims' names. Yates makes a deal with Rossi and the FBI to avoid the death penalty in exchange for revealing one additional name per year on a "special day", which proves to be Rossi's birthday.

In "Annihilator" he is forced into retirement when assistant director of National Security Linda Barnes (Kim Rhodes) reassigns the BAU. However, he is reinstated by the end of the next episode.

Rossi carries a Springfield Professional Model 1911-A1 .45 ACP pistol as his duty sidearm. Only active or former members of the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team and Regional SWAT teams are authorized to carry that pistol. Although never mentioned this would seem to indicate that Rossi served on one or both of these elite FBI tactical units at one time during his FBI career.

Awards and decorations

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In "Anonymous", Rossi's military awards and decorations can be clearly seen in a shadowbox hanging on his office wall. The following are the medals and service awards fictionally worn by Sgt. Maj. Rossi.

Personal decorations
Purple Heart
Meritorious Service Medal
V
Gold star
Gold star
 Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with two award stars and V Device
V
 Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with V Device
Combat Action Ribbon
Unit awards
Navy Presidential Unit Citation
Navy Unit Commendation
Bronze star
 Meritorious Unit Commendation with one service star
Service Awards
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
Bronze star
Bronze star
 Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal with two service stars
Campaign and service medals
National Defense Service Medal
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
Bronze star
Bronze star
Bronze star
 Vietnam Service Medal with three service stars
Service and training awards
Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
Foreign awards
Vietnam Gallantry Cross
Vietnam Presidential Unit Citation
Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation
Vietnam Civil Actions Unit Citation
Vietnam Campaign Medal
Other accoutrements
Marine Corps Expert Rifle Badge
Marine Corps Expert Pistol Badge

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

David Rossi

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
David Rossi is a fictional character from the American crime drama television series , portrayed by actor from 2007 to 2020 and reprised in the Paramount+ revival Criminal Minds: Evolution starting in 2022. As a Supervisory in the FBI's (BAU), he specializes in criminal profiling, hostage negotiation, and behavioral analysis to apprehend violent offenders, drawing on decades of field experience to guide the team through complex investigations. Introduced in the third season episode "About Face," which aired on October 31, 2007, Rossi rejoins the BAU after a brief , replacing the departing Jason Gideon and initially causing tension with his old-school, authoritative style. A founding member of , he is characterized as an Italian-American veteran who served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the , rising to the rank of before transitioning to . Mantegna drew from real FBI consultants to infuse authenticity into the role, emphasizing Rossi's practical, no-nonsense approach to high-stakes cases. Rossi is renowned within the series for his of younger agents, culinary expertise—often hosting team dinners featuring Italian dishes—and personal struggles, including three failed marriages that highlight the sacrifices of his career. His shrewd, seasoned demeanor evolves over the series into a paternal figure, providing emotional depth amid the show's focus on psychological thrillers. The revival was renewed for a 19th season overall in March 2025, with Rossi continuing as a core leader.

Development and portrayal

Casting and introduction

In August 2007, CBS announced that Emmy-nominated actor Joe Mantegna would join the cast of Criminal Minds as FBI Supervisory Special Agent David Rossi, a series regular beginning with season 3, to replace Jason Gideon following Mandy Patinkin's abrupt departure after season 2. The casting decision came amid production challenges, with Mantegna selected for his extensive experience in film and television, including roles in The Godfather Part III and House of Games. Rossi made his debut in the episode "About Face" (season 3, episode 6), which aired on October 31, 2007, introducing the character as a founding member of the returning from semi-retirement to assist the team. In the episode, Rossi is depicted as a seasoned profiler drawn back into , quickly integrating into the unit's dynamics. Ed Bernero designed Rossi as an antithesis to , aiming to shift the team's leadership style from Gideon's sensitive, disheveled intensity to Rossi's sharp, confident demeanor grounded in extensive field experience and emotional reserve. Bernero ensured Rossi's charisma and world-weary expertise would complement rather than replicate the previous mentor figure. To prepare for the role, Mantegna consulted with the show's FBI advisors from the real to understand profiling techniques and operational realities. He also incorporated elements of his own Italian-American heritage, intentionally shaping Rossi as a character with similar cultural quirks, family-oriented values, and preferences to add authenticity. This personal touch extended to Rossi's in-universe backstory as a veteran, reflecting Mantegna's interest in portraying grounded, relatable authority figures.

Characterization by Joe Mantegna

Joe Mantegna, who has portrayed David Rossi since the character's debut in Season 3 of , intentionally infused the role with elements of his own Italian-American heritage to create an authentic depiction. He made Rossi an Italian-American agent, incorporating personal quirks such as a love for cooking Italian food and using aliases like "Papa " and " the Italian" to reflect cultural stereotypes rooted in truth, including strong family loyalty and expressive mannerisms. Mantegna has described this choice as a way to pay homage to his ethnic background, noting that he often selects Italian-American characters across his career to balance representation positively. He emphasized Rossi's pride in his heritage, stating, "I've played Agent David Rossi for 17 years on '' and he's a proud Italian American." Mantegna's performance evolved significantly over the series, beginning with Rossi as a confident, no-nonsense profiler in early seasons and progressing to more vulnerable portrayals in later ones, particularly through emotional breakdowns tied to family revelations. This shift became especially pronounced in : Evolution, where Rossi grapples with profound grief following the death of his , Krystall Richards, from an unspecified illness, leading to a darker, more introspective state that affects his interactions with the BAU team. Mantegna highlighted how the streaming format allowed for deeper , enabling him to explore Rossi's trauma over a 10-episode arc rather than isolated episodes, which added layers to the character's resilience amid loss. He drew from personal life experiences to incorporate these traits, making the return to the role feel natural and comfortable after a hiatus. Throughout the run, Mantegna provided input on scripts to enhance Rossi's charismatic elements, such as advocating for storylines that showcased his skills and interpersonal dynamics, including contributions to arcs like the one involving Meshach Taylor's character. This helped highlight Rossi's persona through witty, flirtatious exchanges that balanced his professional toughness. One key challenge Mantegna faced was balancing Rossi's tough exterior with moments of personal vulnerability, particularly in episodes revealing family secrets, such as the Season 10 disclosure of his middle name "Stephen," which required conveying layered without overshadowing the agent's . He found portraying this emotional depth "interesting and challenging," as it depicted an imperfect world where even seasoned profilers struggle with loss. Mantegna's involvement extended into : Evolution (Seasons 16–18, 2022–2025), where he not only reprised Rossi but also directed Episode 3 of Season 16, allowing him to influence scenes like interrogations through on-set adjustments that emphasized the character's raw intensity. The physical demands of action sequences remained a hurdle, yet Mantegna noted being in better shape for these, which supported his committed performance amid the show's darker tone.

Character profile

Background and early career

David Rossi was born on May 9, 1956, in Commack, , New York, to Italian-American parents. Growing up in this environment shaped his pragmatic worldview and appreciation for resilience, themes that would later influence his professional life. After graduating high school, Rossi enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, rising to the rank of during his service in the . He earned during his service. His combat experiences, including intense frontline duties, forged his toughness and introduced him to high-stakes negotiation tactics that proved invaluable in future crises. Upon honorable discharge, Rossi transitioned to civilian life, leveraging his discipline and strategic mindset. In the , Rossi entered the FBI, where he played a pivotal role in co-founding the (BSU), the precursor to the modern (BAU). As one of the unit's original architects alongside figures like Jason Gideon, he contributed to pioneering criminal profiling techniques, focusing on psychological analysis of violent offenders during an era when such methods were nascent. His early tenure emphasized hostage negotiation and behavioral patterns, establishing him as a foundational expert in the field. By the early 2000s, after decades of service, Rossi opted for semi-retirement to pursue writing true-crime books and consulting gigs, amassing personal wealth through these endeavors. This period allowed reflection on his career but ended with his return to the FBI in 2007 amid pressing needs at the BAU. Paralleling his professional path, Rossi's early included two marriages that ended in , compounded by the profound loss of his son, James, who died from a chronic illness shortly after birth in 1979. These events underscored the personal toll of his demanding career and deepened his for victims' families.

Personality traits

David Rossi is depicted as a charismatic and extroverted figure within the (BAU), often employing humor and sarcasm to alleviate tension during high-stakes investigations, setting him apart from more reserved colleagues like Spencer Reid. His warm demeanor and relatable interactions, such as preparing Italian meals for the team, underscore a lighter, engaging side that fosters camaraderie amid the unit's grim work. Rossi exhibits neat-freak tendencies, meticulously organizing his workspace and color-coding notes, as noted by Emily Prentiss in a team discussion: "The guy is a fussy, anal-retentive neat freak who never leaves anything out of its place." This precision extends to his personal life, where his reputation is reflected in multiple marriages—three in total—and a comfortable lifestyle supported by royalties from his successful novels. His Italian-American heritage subtly informs a family-oriented outlook, though professional duties often take precedence. As a traditionalist in profiling, Rossi favors instinct and established methods over emerging technologies, drawing from his military background and founding role in the BAU to emphasize practical, experience-based analysis. This approach is coupled with unwavering loyalty to the BAU, viewing it as an extension of family, and a strong moral compass that prevents him from bending ethical or legal boundaries, even in personal crises like assisting an ex-wife with end-of-life decisions. Beneath this confident exterior lie internal conflicts, particularly guilt stemming from past failures, including the tragic death of his infant son with first wife , which resurfaces in emotional confrontations and contributes to occasional abrasiveness toward the team. Over the series, Rossi demonstrates growth in vulnerability, particularly in later seasons and the revival , where grief over personal losses leads to therapy sessions and greater emotional openness, allowing him to confront his "darker place" and step beyond his usual restraint.

Skills and expertise

David Rossi possesses extensive expertise in hostage negotiation, a specialty developed during his military service in the United States Marine Corps and his early FBI career, where he taught numerous agents in and emphasized techniques such as building with subjects to de-escalate crises. His approach often incorporates a personality-driven style, leveraging psychological insights to connect with perpetrators on a level. Rossi demonstrates proficiency in resolving cold cases through historical profiling, applying long-term pattern analysis to connect unsolved crimes and demonstrate persistence in pursuing justice for unresolved investigations even decades later. This skill stems from his decades of experience interviewing offenders, including serial killers and sex offenders, which has informed his ability to revisit and link disparate cases effectively. As a in , Rossi has authored multiple bestselling books on the subject, selling over one million copies worldwide and establishing his influence through speaking engagements and consultations. His writings draw on psycholinguistic expertise to decode offender behaviors and communication patterns. Rossi's marksmanship and field tactics proficiency originate from his training as a in the Marine Corps, enabling him to handle high-stakes operational pursuits with precision and tactical acumen. In his role as a founding member of the (BAU), Rossi serves as a mentor to younger agents, imparting traditional investigative methods and leadership principles amid the team's increasing reliance on .

Storylines

Pre-BAU career and return

David Rossi played a pivotal role in the establishment of the FBI's (BSU), the precursor to the (BAU), during the 1970s. As one of the unit's founding members, he collaborated with early pioneers like Jason Gideon on groundbreaking profiles, applying insights from his military background in to develop foundational profiling techniques for the FBI. After decades of service, Rossi entered semi-retirement from 2004 to 2007, during which he authored several bestselling books on criminal profiling and conducted private consulting on high-profile cases, leveraging his expertise for select law enforcement and media engagements. Rossi returned to the BAU in 2007, motivated by his growing dissatisfaction with retirement's inactivity and the unit's urgent need for experienced leadership following Jason Gideon's abrupt departure. His reintegration into the team was marked by initial tensions in team dynamics, but he quickly established his authority through decisive contributions to case resolutions in Season 3, such as unraveling complex unsub patterns that solidified his role as a senior profiler. In Season 13 (2017), Rossi briefly considered retirement amid the physical and emotional toll of ongoing cases, but he ultimately recommitted to the BAU, reaffirming his dedication to the unit's mission and his irreplaceable institutional knowledge.

Major personal arcs

One of David Rossi's most significant personal developments occurred in the tenth season when he discovered he had an adult daughter, Joy Struthers, from a brief relationship during his early career. This revelation came during the episode "Fate," where Joy, a , sought Rossi's help amid a personal crisis, leading to an emotional reconciliation as he grappled with his absence from her life due to his demanding career. Joy was later introduced to the BAU team, strengthening family bonds and highlighting Rossi's commitment to making amends for past absences. In the seventh season, Rossi reconnected with his first wife, , after years apart, attempting to support her through her battle with (). Their reconciliation was bittersweet, marked by Rossi's efforts to care for her in her final days, as depicted in episodes like "The Bittersweet Science" and "," where he confronted the regrets of their failed marriage. Carolyn's death from the disease left Rossi in profound grief, prompting deep reflection on his three failed marriages and the emotional toll of his professional life. Rossi expanded his family role in the eleventh season with the introduction of his grandson, Kai, son of and her husband. This arc, explored in "Inner Beauty," showcased Rossi attending Kai's birthday party and navigating an awkward reunion with Joy's mother, Hayden Montgomery, his second ex-wife, underscoring his evolving identity as a grandfather amid ongoing family dynamics. Throughout the series, Rossi confronted lingering regrets over personal losses, including the death of his son from his first marriage and the dissolution of his three marriages, which intensified in the fourteenth season. These struggles culminated in therapeutic introspection during his captivity in the season finale "Truth or Dare," where hallucinations forced him to address unresolved guilt and seek emotional closure. In a positive turn during the fourteenth season, Rossi rekindled a romance with his third ex-wife, Krystall Richards, a philanthropist who provided emotional stability after his past traumas. Their subplot progressed through renewed dating and culminated in marriage in the "Truth or Dare" finale, offering Rossi a sense of enduring and family grounding as the series concluded.

Role in Criminal Minds: Evolution

In Criminal Minds: Evolution, David Rossi is reintroduced in Season 16 (2022) as the seasoned Supervisory Special Agent leading the (BAU) through the challenges of the , with the team operating remotely to combat a network of serial killers orchestrated by Elias Voit. This storyline emphasizes Rossi's resilience amid isolation protocols, as he coordinates virtual briefings and fieldwork while grappling with the psychological toll of the crisis on both victims and the team. His experience proves crucial in unraveling Voit's manipulation of societal fears during lockdowns, highlighting Rossi's role as a stabilizing force in the BAU's adapted operations. Season 17 (2024) delves into Rossi's ethical dilemmas through the "Gold Star" arc, a conspiracy tied to a classified program he co-developed with Jason Gideon decades earlier, which outlined methods to psychologically engineer but was buried due to its dangers. As the BAU investigates Gold Star perpetrators who weaponize this knowledge—leaving behind gold star bullet casings—Rossi confronts suppressed guilt and hallucinations of , blurring his reality and forcing him to interrogate his past contributions to criminal profiling. This subplot tests Rossi's moral boundaries during intense interrogations, where he risks exposing the program's secrets to apprehend killers like Sicarius, ultimately deepening his character through themes of and redemption. In Season 18 (2025), Rossi faces a career-threatening internal investigation subplot triggered by his involvement in a prison attack on Elias Voit, who survived but was placed in a medically , stemming from a high-stakes confrontation that raises questions about excessive force and procedural violations. The inquiry, launched early in the season, scrutinizes Rossi's actions amid the ongoing pursuit of Voit's "Disciple" network, placing him under FBI oversight while he mentors the team through explosive threats and abductions. This arc underscores the vulnerabilities of long-serving agents, as Rossi balances defending his legacy against potential suspension, all while aiding in the protection of individuals in danger, such as Lainey and Ava. Throughout , Rossi exhibits personal growth shaped by earlier family arcs, including his marriage to Krystall Richards, which provides emotional continuity as he navigates grief and recommits to the BAU. His mentorship of newer agents, such as Tyler Green, becomes prominent, with Rossi guiding the rookie through fieldwork and psychological profiling in high-pressure cases, fostering Green's integration into the team dynamic. This advisory role highlights Rossi's evolution from a lone profiler to a paternal figure, emphasizing legacy-building amid the revival's darker threats. Paramount+ announced Season 19 in April 2025, ahead of Season 18's premiere, with teases focusing on Rossi's legacy reflections as the BAU confronts escalating unsub networks. While plot details remain sparse, promotional materials hint at Rossi contemplating his future contributions, potentially exploring retirement themes intertwined with his enduring impact on .

Relationships

Family

David Rossi has been married three times, with each union shaping his personal life in profound ways. His first marriage, to Carolyn Baker Rossi in the 1970s, ended in divorce after the birth of their son, James David Rossi. The couple's son was diagnosed with , and his death deeply impacted Rossi, leading him to question his priorities and contributing to his initial departure from the FBI's . Carolyn herself was later diagnosed with (ALS), prompting a brief reconciliation with Rossi before her passing. Rossi’s second marriage was to Hayden Montgomery in the 1980s, which also ended in divorce during the 1990s amid the strains of his demanding career; the couple had a daughter, Joy Struthers (née Montgomery), born during this period. Joy, a instructor and , was unknown to Rossi for much of her life due to Hayden's decision to raise her independently in , and they only reconnected in 2008 when Joy sought out her father. Joy is married to Shawn Struthers, and they have a son, Kai Struthers, Rossi's grandson, born in the , whom Rossi has embraced as part of his growing family circle. His third marriage was to Krystall Richards, a Las Vegas native he met during a brief, impulsive in the early that was quickly annulled; they rekindled their relationship and remarried in 2019. This union provided Rossi with a sense of stability in his later years, though Krystall's death from an unspecified illness prior to left him grappling with profound grief. Krystall brought her daughter, Portia Richards, from a previous into Rossi's life, further expanding his familial role, though he maintained limited contact with extended Italian relatives due to his career's demands, which often kept him distant from personal ties. Over the course of his , Rossi evolved from an absentee , prioritizing his professional commitments, to a devoted in his later seasons, actively supporting and her while reflecting on the regrets of his earlier absences. This transformation underscored his loyalty to , a trait that fostered deeper bonds despite past estrangements.

Colleagues in the BAU

David Rossi maintained close professional relationships with his Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) colleagues, often serving as a mentor and stabilizing force within the team. His mentorship of younger agents, including Emily Prentiss and Spencer Reid, emphasized practical guidance in profiling techniques and case strategy, drawing from his decades of experience to help them navigate complex investigations. Prentiss, in particular, whom Rossi mentored as she served as BAU unit chief, reflecting the trust he placed in her leadership abilities during high-stakes operations. Rossi shared a banter-filled dynamic with technical analyst Penelope Garcia, whom he treated as a figure, blending teasing humor with protective concern that strengthened their collaborative efforts on cases. This familial rapport occasionally gave way to tensions, as seen in : Evolution, where Garcia's assertiveness after a period away from the FBI clashed with Rossi's gruff demeanor amid his personal struggles. Their interactions highlighted Rossi's role in fostering team morale through lighthearted exchanges, even as professional disagreements arose. Initially, Rossi's relationship with Derek Morgan was marked by rivalry, with the two butting heads over profiling approaches and authority during early cases, such as the investigation in season 3's "Lucky," where Rossi playfully deferred challenging interviews to Morgan. Over time, this evolved into mutual respect and admiration, particularly after Morgan's departure from the BAU, as they bonded over shared reflections on faith, personal growth, and the emotional toll of their work. Rossi enjoyed a close friendship with Aaron Hotchner, rooted in their long history as BAU founders, where they shared leadership responsibilities and provided emotional support during crises like the Reaper case. Their bond extended beyond work, with Rossi coaching Hotchner's son Jack's soccer team and offering counsel on family matters until Hotchner's exit in season 12. Early tensions with cadet Ashley Seaver arose from her inexperience and familial ties to a serial killer, but these resolved through collaborative casework, allowing Rossi to offer constructive feedback as she integrated into the team. He also provided ongoing support to Jennifer "JJ" Jareau and Tara Lewis, aiding their transitions in media liaison and profiling roles with his negotiation expertise and team-oriented advice.

Awards and decorations

Military awards

David Rossi earned several distinguished military awards during his service as a U.S. Marine in the , reflecting his valor, leadership, and direct involvement in combat operations. These honors underscore the discipline and experiences that shaped his later career in . The was awarded to Rossi for physical wounds he sustained in combat in 1970, a testament to his endurance under fire during intense engagements. In the episode "Anonymous" (Season 10), a shadowbox in Rossi's office displays his , though specific details beyond are not explicitly described in the narrative.

References

  1. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001505/
  2. https://www.paramountplus.com/shows/criminal_minds/
  3. https://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2007/08/14/emmy-award-nominee-joe-mantegna-joins-the-cast-of-criminal-minds--25197/20070814cbs01/
  4. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1111508/
  5. https://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/05/arts/television/05crim.html
  6. https://smashinginterviews.com/interviews/actors/joe-mantegna-interview-criminal-minds-is-not-some-pretend-made-up-kind-of-program-what-we-show-is-not-fantasy
  7. https://www.tvguide.com/news/criminal-minds-joe-mantegna-1056157/
  8. https://www.assignmentx.com/2014/exclusive-interview-joe-mantegna-on-criminal-minds-season-9-and-more/
  9. https://variety.com/2022/tv/reviews/criminal-minds-evolution-review-joe-mantegna-paramount-plus-reboot-1235439303/
  10. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/criminal-minds-evolution-renewed-season-19-paramount-plus-1236155263/
  11. http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2007/08/14/emmy-award-nominee-joe-mantegna-joins-the-cast-of-criminal-minds--25197/20070814cbs01/
  12. https://www.nbclosangeles.com/entertainment/criminal-minds-evolution-joe-mantegna/3037302/
  13. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1W5B4f2HRdE
  14. https://www.sfchronicle.com/entertainment/article/joe-mantegna-sf-italian-parade-21043036.php
  15. https://www.tvinsider.com/1072142/criminal-minds-evolution-joe-mantegna-rossi-unsub-video-interview/
  16. https://smashinginterviews.com/interviews/actors/joe-mantegna-interview-the-evolution-of-criminal-minds
  17. https://www.looper.com/1106333/joe-mantegna-on-stepping-back-into-david-rossis-shoes-for-criminal-minds-evolution-exclusive-interview/
  18. https://www.newsweek.com/david-rossi-wife-krystall-richards-what-happened-criminal-minds-evolution-joe-mantegna-1762176
  19. https://netvol.co.uk/david-rossi-criminal-minds-character-profile/
  20. https://www.charactour.com/hub/characters/view/David-Rossi.Criminal-Minds
  21. https://www.tvfanatic.com/criminal-minds-exclusive-joe-mantegna-on-vietnam-flashbacks-play/
  22. https://www.looper.com/492659/analyzing-david-rossis-dating-life-at-the-end-of-criminal-minds/
  23. https://www.tvline.com/lists/best-worst-tv-cast-replacements-list-ranked-cheers-er-the-office/
  24. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1197560/quotes/
  25. https://www.cbr.com/saddest-deaths-in-criminal-minds/
  26. https://www.looper.com/615071/the-heartbreaking-criminal-minds-moment-with-rossi-and-his-ex/
  27. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1256100/quotes/
  28. https://tvshowtranscripts.ourboard.org/viewtopic.php?f=31&t=13111
  29. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByfeO399GZA
  30. https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/the-keefe-report-agent-rossi-s-and-the-nra-national-firearms-museum-s-next-gun/
  31. https://www.looper.com/377023/why-david-rossis-first-appearance-in-criminal-minds-means-more-than-you-think/
  32. https://screenrant.com/why-rossi-didnt-become-bau-chief-in-criminal-minds/
  33. https://www.looper.com/1113444/david-rossi-best-worst-criminal-minds-moments-ranked/
  34. https://www.tvfanatic.com/criminal-minds-season-11-episode-7-recap-target-rich/
  35. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5460408/
  36. https://www.tvfanatic.com/criminal-minds-season-11-episode-20-review-inner-beauty/
  37. https://www.spoilertv.com/2020/01/criminal-minds-truth-or-dare-review.html
  38. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8835038/
  39. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7912274/
  40. https://www.tvfanatic.com/criminal-minds-season-finale-review-truth-or-dare/
  41. https://www.tvinsider.com/1138699/criminal-minds-evolution-rossi-voit-hallucination-tyler-garcia-gold-star/
  42. https://www.denofgeek.com/tv/criminal-minds-evolution-season-2-ending-explained-does-emily-prentiss-survive/
  43. https://criminalminds.fandom.com/wiki/Gold_Star_Killers
  44. https://www.tvinsider.com/1141582/criminal-minds-evolution-season-17-episode-6-recap-gold-star-rossi-gideon-paper/
  45. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26211290/
  46. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFqqUGCy_1M
  47. https://www.tvinsider.com/1199744/criminal-minds-evolution-season-18-episode-9-recap-voit-kidnapped-ochoa/
  48. https://www.paramountplus.com/shows/video/mnOtNKHp19UX7PKuQ91gmg5s6xLnkzek/
  49. https://criminalminds.fandom.com/wiki/Krystall_Richards
  50. https://screenrant.com/criminal-minds-evolution-season-3-classic-rossi-return/
  51. https://collider.com/criminal-minds-evolution-tyler-green/
  52. https://www.wzbg.com/2025/04/21/criminal-minds-evolution-renewed-for-season-19/
  53. https://www.tvinsider.com/1180079/criminal-minds-evolution-season-19-cast-premiere-date-trailer/
  54. https://www.looper.com/628113/what-you-might-not-know-about-david-rossis-marriages/
  55. https://screenrant.com/criminal-minds-best-worst-friendships/
  56. https://screenrant.com/criminal-minds-evolution-rossi-garcia-tension-joe-mantegna/
  57. https://www.cbr.com/best-criminal-minds-ships-ranked/
  58. https://www.unsubspodcast.com/recaps/s3e8-lucky
  59. https://www.cbr.com/criminal-minds-duos/
  60. https://www.cbr.com/saddest-criminal-minds-character-exits/
  61. https://criminalminds.fandom.com/wiki/Anonymous
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