Seasoned viewers of "Criminal Minds" had predicted the departure of agent Kate Callahan and JJ since news of their real-life pregnancy first surfaced online. Executive producer Erica Messer recently confirmed the news to Entertainment Weekly, saying that Jennifer Love Hewitt, who played Kate, would not be returning for season 11 of "Criminal Minds", while A.J Cook, who essays the role of JJ, would be absent for at least five episodes of the dark CBS crime drama.

Now, another Entertainment Weekly article reports that a new actress will replace the void left by Hewitt and Cook's departure. The actress to fill in their shoes for the time being will be Aisha Tyler. Starring in a heavily recurring role, the dusky beauty will essay the role of Dr. Tara Lewis, a forensic psychologist.

In season 11, Aaron Hotchner interviews several applicants for Kate's newly vacated position. Dr. Lewis emerges as the best candidate and ends up working with the BAU team in an investigation.

Lewis studies psychopaths up close and personal in order to find their human side and learn if there lies a conscience in these brutal criminals. Tyler is famous for her role in "The Archer" and is currently a co-host in "The Talk". Production is scheduled to commence this July.

Messer, the creator of the CBS crime drama, made it clear to the publication that the doors were open for previous actors and actresses to appear in "Criminal Minds". Rather than casting a series regular, the showrunner plans to bring back old actors who will guest-star or recur in season 11 before finalizing a series regular.

This revelation has made fans speculate about the return of fan-favorites Paget Brewster, who played agent Emily Prentiss, and Meta Golding, who played Jordan Todd. Long-time viewers want them to come back for at least an episode or two.

"Criminal Minds" will return on CBS on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 9 p.m. EST.