Full Breakdown
Connor Storrie's Expanded Guest Arc on *Criminal Minds: Evolution*
6/11/2026, 10:42:24 PM
The Guest Role Takes Center Stage
Connor Storrie appears as Lance Kingston, a charismatic narcissist accused of stalking his ex-girlfriend, in the *Criminal Minds: Evolution* episode “The Witching Hour,” which premiered on Paramount+ on June 11, 2026. Originally contracted for a single-episode appearance, Storrie’s performance prompted the writers to extend his storyline into a four-episode arc (episodes 4, 5, 6, 9). In the narrative, Kingston is interrogated by Special Agent Jennifer “JJ” Jareau (A.J. Cook) and later identified by the BAU as a pawn in a scheme involving serial killer Elias Voit (Zach Gilford) and the UnSub known as “The Fan.”
Background: From *Heated Rivalry* to the BAU
Prior to his *Criminal Minds* debut, Storrie gained prominence as Ilya Rozanov in the hockey romance series *Heated Rivalry*. The casting process for *Evolution* occurred in the summer of 2025, before *Heated Rivalry* aired. Casting director April Webster selected Storrie for a two-day shoot, anticipating a brief guest spot. The production team was unaware of Storrie’s rising profile at the time of casting.
Narrative Impact on Season 19
Kingston’s interrogation reveals past legal troubles, including assault charges and a stint in a drunk tank, which the BAU uses to gauge his threat. Although initially treated as a suspect, the team later determines he is a “sacrificial pawn” manipulated by the true perpetrator. The episode ends with an unknown figure loading Kingston’s limp body into a truck, setting up his return.
Official Statements & Responses
Messer said the writers “adjusted the back half of the season to give his character more agency.” Rodriguez said Storrie “had exactly the right qualities for the role,” adding that he balances surface danger with underlying humanity. Paramount+ confirmed the June 11 premiere and Kingston’s storyline through episodes 5, 6, and 9.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We were very much interested in finding somebody that would stand out a bit. Connor won that, hands down,” — Erica Messer, Showrunner
- “He’s just so good — not only crazy talented, but so kind, so funny, so wonderful to have on set.” — Erica Messer, Showrunner
- “Connor really had something that I thought was exactly right for the character,” — Adam Rodriguez, Actor/Director
- “Hold me for something or I'm peacing out," Lance tells JJ.” — Lance Kingston (Connor Storrie)
What’s Next for Lance Kingston
Paramount+ has slated Kingston’s return in episodes 5, 6, and 9 of Season 19, where the BAU will investigate his connection to “The Fan” and the case surrounding Elias Voit. The arc is expected to explore Kingston’s vulnerability and his involvement in the UnSub’s plan.
