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5 Things You Didn't Know About A.J. Cook of Criminal Minds

Her full name is Alexander Joy Cook.

Her full name is Alexander Joy Cook.

A.J. (who plays Jennifer Jareau on the hit CBS show) was born and spent most of her childhood in Ontario, where she attended Anderson Collegiate Vocational Institute, before pursuing acting. A.J. danced competitively in jazz, tap, and ballet.
She attended Utah Valley University in Salt Lake City, Utah.

She attended Utah Valley University in Salt Lake City, Utah.

A.J. found her life's passion—and love—while in school. She met her husband, Nathan Andersen, in a film class. The two married on Aug. 3, 2001.
She recently welcomed her second child.

She recently welcomed her second child.

A.J., her husband Nathan, and seven-year-old Mekhai welcomed baby boy Phoneix Sky Andersen on Thursday, July 23, 2015—the day after her birthday!
Her son is a star of his own!

Her son is a star of his own!

A.J.'s adorable son Mekhai has appeared on many Criminal Minds episodes alongside his mom as J.J.’s son. Art imitates life!
She's no stranger to the screen.

She's no stranger to the screen.

Before starring as one of our favorite members of the BAU on Criminal Minds, A.J. Cook appeared in dozens of films, including The Virgin Suicides, Higher Ground, Final Destination 2, and Night Skies.