Diana Reid

Diana Reid (sometimes referred to as Diane) is the mother of Spencer Reid. She is a recurring character on Criminal Minds.

Background
Like her son, Diana Reid is a genius--though her IQ is never mentioned. She raised Spencer as a single mother after her husband left her due to her schizophrenia (among other things). She read to Spencer often, enforcing his already growing intelligence. From her, Spencer learned that the best way to learn is to do "the research" on your own. Through the years, the reading time began to take place in her bedroom, where she spent most of her time on medication.

When Spencer was eighteen, he made the difficult decision to finally have her committed. She now resides in Bennington Sanitarium, where she receives a letter from her son every day.

The Fisher King
When the BAU learned that Randall Garner was planning to make Diana his next victim, they immediately took her from the institution to the FBI headquarters at Quantico. While in protective custody, Diana assisted them in the case.

Behind the Scenes
Diana is portrayed by Jane Lynch.

Appearances

 * Season One
 * The Fisher King, part 1
 * Season Two
 * The Fisher King, part 2
 * Revelations
 * Season Four
 * The Instincts
 * Memoriam