Zach Gilford is a versatile actor who showcases his talent in the hit show Criminal Minds: Evolution on Paramount+. In Season 1, he plays Elias Voit, a cold-blooded murderer and evil genius who builds a network of serial killers during the COVID-19 lockdown. However, Voit’s double life is revealed when he returns home to his beautiful wife Sydney (played by Gilford’s real-life wife Kiele Sanchez) and their two daughters, Holly and Harlow. This chilling sequence highlights Voit’s skill at juggling conflicting personalities.
As the season progresses, we learn about Voit’s troubled past and how it contributes to his sadistic behavior. Despite being captured by the team in Season 1, Voit returns in Season 2 through haunting hallucinations triggered by Rossi’s PTSD. Gilford’s portrayal of Voit’s vile and monstrous side captivates viewers and solidifies him as one of 2022’s most terrifying on-screen villains.
In Season 2, with Voit physically imprisoned, Gilford demonstrates his range without relying on gruesome attention-grabbing tactics. He shines as he convincingly portrays Voit’s cocky attitude and ability to switch between tones, suppressing his serial killer rage for the sake of his family. When confronted by the FBI, Voit exudes arrogance, deriving pleasure from concealing the truth and toying with his BAU visitors. Gilford’s snarky delivery adds depth to the character and makes him even more detestable.
Through Rossi’s hallucinations, Gilford truly gets to showcase his talent. Playing Voit with gelled hair, street clothes, and annoying persistence, he provokes Rossi and insults his loved ones. The intimate scenes between Gilford and Rossi reveal flickers of his humor and personality that fans of the It’s Not Only Football: Friday Night Lights and Beyond podcast may find familiar.
Gilford’s ability to soften the character of Voit as a family man is crucial to the show’s success. His palpable chemistry with his real-life wife enhances the dynamic of the Voit family. In Episode 4, Gilford’s performance as a loving and empathetic father proves his range is essential for the complex role. He portrays Voit’s concern for his daughters and their future in a way that makes viewers believe it is genuine.
Criminal Minds: Evolution could have ended Voit’s story with a satisfying arrest in Season 1. However, the show creatively continues to utilize Gilford’s talents by having Voit work closely with the BAU, secure deals with the FBI using essential information, and confront his family in Season 2. This decision keeps viewers hooked and craving more of Gilford’s captivating performance.
In conclusion, Zach Gilford’s portrayal of Elias Voit in Criminal Minds: Evolution showcases his versatility as an actor. He seamlessly transitions between Voit’s cold-blooded killer persona and his loving family man side. Through his nuanced performance, Gilford brings depth and complexity to the character, making him one of the most memorable on-screen villains of 2022. Criminal Minds: Evolution continues to harness Gilford’s talents, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting each new episode on Paramount+.
