For 12 seasons, we've watched him unravel the most twisted minds, analyze the most disturbing crimes, and bring justice to the most vulnerable victims. But now, the time has come to say goodbye. Joe Mantegna, the beloved actor who embodied the enigmatic FBI Special Agent David Rossi on the long-running CBS series "Criminal Minds," has filmed his final scene.

It's the end of an era for the show, and for Mantegna, the bittersweet moment marks a closing chapter on a journey that began in 2007 when he joined the already established cast.

A Farewell Filled with Nostalgia and Gratitude

Mantegna took to Twitter to share his heartfelt farewell, penned as an open letter to the show's dedicated fans. His words are laced with a mix of nostalgia, gratitude, and a hint of melancholy.

"As I wrap up my last day of filming Criminal Minds, I can’t help but reflect in awe at what a truly wonderful experience it has been," he wrote, expressing his deep appreciation for the journey.

Mantegna's words paint a picture of a welcoming environment, where he was instantly embraced by the cast and crew, making him feel like part of the team from day one.

"The next 12 years would be a wild and wonderful ride," he continued, highlighting the show's impact on his life and career.

A Family Bonded by Crime-Fighting

But it wasn't just the thrill of the show's subject matter that made Mantegna's experience so special. It was the camaraderie, the shared passion, the sense of family that bloomed on set.

"Yes, I will miss playing David Rossi, and I’ll miss the wonderful writing that brought him to life, but mostly I will miss seeing my fellow cast mates and our fantastic crew every day," he wrote, revealing the deep bonds that forged over years of filming.

Mantegna's words echo the sentiment shared by countless actors who find more than just work in their projects: a sense of family, a support system, a group of people who become a second home.

The Show Must Go On

The final season of "Criminal Minds" was announced back in January, bringing an end to the show's remarkable 15-season run. CBS promised an "epic final season," a fitting send-off for a show that captivated audiences for over a decade.

As Mantegna reflects on his time on the show, he acknowledges the changing landscape of an actor's life.

"An actor’s life is always changing and I’m excited for what’s next and hope that when I find that thing, you’ll come along for that ride too," he wrote, expressing a sense of optimism for the future.

A Thank You to the Fans

In his final words, Mantegna acknowledged the driving force behind the show's success: its devoted fans.

"In the end we owe it all to you, the fans. For being the most loyal, tolerant, and passionate fans we could have ever asked for. Thanks for being there," he added, expressing heartfelt gratitude for their support.

A Legacy of Suspense and Character

"Criminal Minds" has been more than just a crime drama series; it's a journey into the minds of the most twisted individuals, a exploration of the human psyche in its darkest corners.

The show, created by Jeff Davis, premiered in 2005 and quickly gained a loyal following for its blend of suspense, character development, and compelling storylines.