"Criminal Minds" Finally Gets a New Cast Member

“Criminal Minds” has finally found its new star.

“Minds” executive producer Ed Bernero announced on the show’s #1 fan blog that Joe Mantegna has joined the cast.

“Entertainment Weekly” reported that Harvey Keitel (who I told you last week was the front-runner) was a “near-lock,” but negotiations broke down over his demands for “creative control and perks.” Geena Davis, Michael Keaton and Bob Hoskins also reportedly turned down the gig.

Mantegna was last seen in the USA mini-series “The Starter Wife,” which earned him an Emmy nomination. His last regular series role was on “Joan of Arcadia.”

Personally, I think this is an excellent choice. It won’t make me watch the show, but it’s still a good choice…

While the casting process has been going on, the show has been trudging ahead completing three episodes. This probably means that Mantegna won’t appear until November sweeps…