Could Criminal Minds switch from CBS to ABC?

Criminal Minds could switch from CBS to ABC following protracted contract negotiations with the show’s cast.

Deadline reports Executive producer Erica Messer has signed a new two-year deal with ABC Studios to remain as showrunner on the procedural -that’s assuming the show is renewed for a 9th season.

But cast members Thomas Gibson, Joe Mantegna, Shemar Moore, Kirsten Vangsness and AJ Cook are yet to sign new contracts.

If CBS fails to reach a new deal with them, the show could potentially move to ABC for its ninth season.

CBS already has renewed 19 shows to return for the 2013-14 TV season, but Criminal Minds remains a conspicuous omission from the list.

Messer tells TV Line, “I’m calling business affairs [for updates] every day saying, ‘How bored are you with me calling?’ And they are very, very bored with me calling. But I feel very confident that the show is beloved both by ABC Studios and the CBS Network, and by fans around the world. I’d be shocked if we didn’t come back.”

CBS Upfronts is due on May 15 and Messer indicates if that presentation “rolls around and we’re not the schedule, I won’t have any words for you, because I will be in shock, on the floor.”

Any switch in the US would not affect Seven’s deal with ABC Studios, which produces the show.