The television series Criminal Minds has built a long-running fanbase largely through its emotionally charged cases and the personal lives of its recurring characters. Among them, JJ Jareau is one of the most prominent figures, and viewers often ask about who plays JJ's sons on Criminal Minds as they track her family storyline.
Below you will find a structured overview of the actors, ages, and key appearances related to JJ's children, followed by in-depth sections on casting details, performance notes, and common fan questions.
| Actor | Character Name | Relation to JJ | First Appearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lola Glaudini | Ellianna Skye | Mother | Season 2, Episode 15 |
| Mekhai Andersen | Henry LaMontagne | Son | Season 11, Episode 5 |
| Daniel Polo | Michael LaMontagne | Son | Season 11, Episode 5 |
| A.J. Cook | Jennifer Jareau | Portrays Adult JJ | Series Premiere |
JJ Jareau Family Background on Criminal Minds
JJ Jareau serves as the communications liaison and emotional anchor of the BAU team, balancing professional intensity with maternal instincts. Her family life, particularly the introduction of her children, adds depth to her character arcs and explains key decisions throughout the series.
Casting Henry and Michael LaMontagne
Mekhai Andersen and Daniel Polo share the role of Henry LaMontagne, the biological son of JJ and William LaMontagne Jr., while also portraying his younger version in flashbacks. Their casting emphasized authenticity and age-appropriate nuance, bringing warmth to high-stress episodes.
Performance Nuance and Emotional Scenes
The actors playing JJ's sons on Criminal Minds capture the vulnerability and resilience expected of children raised in a law enforcement household. Directors often coached them to deliver subtle reactions that amplified dramatic tension without overshadowing the seasoned leads.
Key Appearances and Story Arcs
Henry appears intermittently as the team navigates complicated cases and personal risks. These storylines explore themes of parental sacrifice, public scrutiny, and the impact of trauma on a blended family, enhancing JJ's character development beyond her professional role.
Final Character Perspective
The casting of Henry LaMontagne remains a defining element of JJ's journey on Criminal Minds, reinforcing the show's focus on personal stakes within high-pressure investigations.
- Mekhai Andersen and Daniel Polo share the role of Henry LaMontagne, JJ's son.
- Henry appears primarily in Season 11 and select later episodes.
- The casting emphasizes emotional authenticity and age-appropriate performances.
- Storylines explore family dynamics, risk, and resilience within the BAU framework.
FAQ
Reader questions
How old are JJ's sons when they first appear on the show?
Henry LaMontagne, played by Mekhai Andersen and Daniel Polo, is introduced as a preteen around the age of 11 to 13 during Season 11, reflecting the timeline of JJ's relationship with William LaMontagne Jr.
Who played the younger version of JJ's son in flashbacks?
Daniel Polo portrays the younger iteration of Henry in select flashback episodes, delivering restrained performances that highlight the character's evolving bond with JJ.
Are JJ's sons featured in multiple seasons or just one arc?
Henry appears across several Season 11 episodes and returns for later seasons, integrating into ongoing storylines that examine family loyalty and the dangers faced by law enforcement relatives.
Do the actors playing JJ's sons have prior experience in crime dramas?
Both Mekhai Andersen and Daniel Polo came from youth acting backgrounds with limited but notable experience in family and drama genres, which helped them adapt to the show's intense procedural format.