Why has Matthew Gray Gubler's highly-anticipated CBS return been delayed? Speculations explored 

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2019 Los Angeles Times Festival Of Books - Source: Getty
2019 Los Angeles Times Festival Of Books - Source: Getty

Matthew Gray Gubler, best known for playing Dr. Spencer Reid on Criminal Minds, was expected to return to CBS in a new show. His return is a highly anticipated one, especially since he didn’t appear in the recent Criminal Minds: Evolution reboot. But now, viewers will have to wait a bit longer, as the new project has been delayed for unknown reasons, but there are a few theories.

Matthew Gray Gubler was set to lead a series called Einstein, where he would play the great-grandson of Albert Einstein. The official logline for the show, according to Variety, reads,

“Brilliant but directionless, the great grandson of Albert Einstein (Gubler) spends his days as a comfortably tenured professor until his bad boy antics land him in trouble with the law and he is pressed into service helping a local police detective (Salazar) solve her most puzzling cases.”

Why is Einstein starring Matthew Gray Gubler delayed?

The delay may have several reasons. CBS is currently focusing on renewing and launching other shows. For example, Fire Country has been renewed for another season, and a spin-off called Sheriff Country is set to launch in 2025. These shows may be taking priority in CBS’s lineup and planning, pushing Matthew Gray's Einstein further down the list.

In addition, CBS recently made big changes to its schedule. Some shows, like FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, were not renewed. At the same time, the network is bringing back other formats, such as the classic game show Hollywood Squares.

These shifts suggest CBS is trying new things and adjusting its strategy. Amidst such a shift, it is not surprising that a new drama series starring Matthew Gray is getting delayed to be released in the 2026-2027 season.

Because of all this, Einstein may simply be caught in the middle of a busy and changing schedule. That doesn’t mean it won’t happen; it just might take longer than Matthew Gray's fans had hoped. With so many shows and spin-offs, networks often delay shows, even ones with big names attached. It is unfortunate, but nothing can be done.

The show is created by Andy Breckman and executive produced by Randy Zisk, the team behind Monk, another hit detective series with a comedic twist. That connection alone got many fans excited. The pilot had strong support, and expectations were high that it would move forward quickly. But so far, CBS has not announced an official air date or given updates on its progress.

Peacock's "Mr. Monk's Last Case: A Monk Movie" New York Premiere - Source: Getty
Peacock's "Mr. Monk's Last Case: A Monk Movie" New York Premiere - Source: Getty

Even though the wait is frustrating, many Matthew Gray fans are still excited to see him return to an offbeat role. His charm, wit, and unique acting style made him stand out in Criminal Minds, and those same qualities could bring something special to Einstein. For now, fans are hopeful that CBS will give the show the green light soon.

Until then, Matthew Gray Gubler's fans can only wait and watch as CBS finalizes the release date for Einstein. His return is still one of the most anticipated in recent TV news, and when it finally happens, it’s sure to be an enjoyable experience.


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Edited by Zainab Shaikh