Jason Gideon Returned to 'Criminal Minds' for the Series Finale — Well, Sort Of. ... Gideon's spirit, who was reminiscent of the investigator in his early career, guided Rossi with advice about a case. The character's return — though unconventional — created further closure during the finale.

What episode does Jason Gideon come back?

In Criminal Minds' pilot, "Extreme Aggressor," Gideon returned to the BAU following a six-month medical leave due to the post-traumatic distress he suffered when a bomber he was profiling killed six agents under Gideon's supervision.

Is Jason Gideon really dead?

In the Season 10 episode "Nelson's Sparrow," Gideon is murdered off-screen, having been shot dead at a close range by a serial killer named Donnie Mallick. During the flashbacks focusing on a young version of him for the episode, which show him working at the BAU in 1978, he is played by Ben Savage.