Joe Mantegna on "Criminal Minds"

After weeks of speculation it was announced that Joe Mantegna will bejoining the cast of CBS' "Criminal Minds." The Emmy nominated actor is set to replace Mandy Patinkin's character after his abrupt exit last month. According to Reuters, Patinkin left because of creative differences. After the exit announcement, the industry has been swarming with rumors of actors set to take his place. Some people rumored to be approached to fill the slot were: Harvey Keitel, Geena Davis and Michael Keaton. "We are very excited to tell you all that Joe Mantegna is officially joining the cast of 'Criminal Minds,'" the show's executive producer, Ed Bernero, wrote in a blog posting. "Thanks for hanging with us, everyone." Mantegna is up for an Emmy award for the USA mini series "The Starter Wife." His previous credits also include "Joan of Arcadia" and "The Last Don." There is currently no information on his character or when he will appear.