Introduction to A.J. Cook
A.J. Cook is a Canadian actress born on July 22, 1978, in Oshawa, Ontario. She is best known for her role as Jennifer “JJ” Jareau in the CBS crime drama Criminal Minds. However, before her breakout role in Criminal Minds, Cook appeared in several films and television shows, including the horror movie Final Destination 2.
Early Life and Career
Cook grew up in a family of modest means and was raised by her parents, Mike and Sandra Cook. She has three siblings, and her family struggled financially during her childhood. Despite the challenges, Cook’s parents encouraged her to pursue her passion for acting. She began taking acting classes at a young age and landed her first role in a McDonald’s commercial when she was 17.
Breakthrough Role in Final Destination 2
In 2003, Cook appeared in the horror movie Final Destination 2, which was a sequel to the successful film Final Destination. The movie follows a group of characters who cheat death after a woman has a premonition of a massive car crash on a highway. Cook played the role of Kimberly Corman, a young woman who is haunted by a series of ominous and deadly events. Although the movie received mixed reviews from critics, it was a commercial success and helped establish Cook as a rising star in Hollywood.
Rise to Fame with Criminal Minds
After her appearance in Final Destination 2, Cook landed the role of Jennifer “JJ” Jareau in the CBS crime drama Criminal Minds. The show premiered in 2005 and followed a team of FBI agents as they investigated crimes and tracked down serial killers. Cook’s character, JJ, was a supervisory special agent and the team’s liaison with the local police departments. The show was a huge success, and Cook’s performance earned her a nomination for a Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actress.
Other Notable Roles
In addition to her roles in Final Destination 2 and Criminal Minds, Cook has appeared in several other films and television shows. Some of her notable roles include: * The Virgin Suicides (1999) * Out Cold (2001) * Least Among Saints (2012) * Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (2011)
Personal Life
Cook is married to Nathan Anderson, and the couple has two sons, Mekhai and Phoenix. She is a devout Christian and has spoken publicly about the importance of her faith in her life. Cook is also an advocate for several charitable organizations, including the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and the World Vision organization.
👍 Note: A.J. Cook is also a talented singer and has released several songs, including a duet with her Criminal Minds co-star, Matthew Gray Gubler.
Awards and Nominations
Throughout her career, Cook has been nominated for several awards, including: * Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actress (2006) * People’s Choice Award for Favorite TV Crime Drama Actress (2012) * TV Guide Award for Favorite Actress in a Drama (2011)
| Year | Award | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Teen Choice Award | Choice TV Actress | Nominated |
| 2011 | TV Guide Award | Favorite Actress in a Drama | Nominated |
| 2012 | People's Choice Award | Favorite TV Crime Drama Actress | Nominated |
As we reflect on A.J. Cook’s career, it is clear that she has established herself as a talented and versatile actress. From her early days as a young actress to her breakout role in Final Destination 2 and her success in Criminal Minds, Cook has proven herself to be a dedicated and passionate performer. With her charming on-screen presence and her commitment to her craft, it is no wonder that she has become a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
What is A.J. Cook’s most notable role?
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A.J. Cook’s most notable role is as Jennifer “JJ” Jareau in the CBS crime drama Criminal Minds.
What was A.J. Cook’s breakout role?
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A.J. Cook’s breakout role was in the horror movie Final Destination 2 in 2003.
Is A.J. Cook married?
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Yes, A.J. Cook is married to Nathan Anderson, and the couple has two sons, Mekhai and Phoenix.
