What Are the Real Reasons Why All These Actors Left ‘NCIS’?
“NCIS” is one of the longest-running TV shows, but its cast turnover rate has been quite high over the years. Several key cast members have left the show for various reasons.
- Sasha Alexander, who played Kate Todd, left after just two seasons because she found the workload exhausting. She asked to be released from her contract.
- Cote de Pablo, who portrayed Ziva David, departed in season 11. She initially cited personal reasons but later revealed that it was due to script quality and character respect issues.
- Lauren Holly, who played the NCIS director, grew bored with her role and was content when her character was written out.
- Michael Weatherly, who played Tony DiNozzo, left after 13 seasons because he was burnt out and wanted a change. He has hinted at a possible return.
- Jennifer Esposito, who portrayed Alex Quinn, left after one season. She explained that her role was never meant to be long-term.
- Duane Henry, who played Clayton Reeves, left the show because the character’s creator passed away, leaving the writers unsure of how to continue with the character.
- Pauley Perrette, who portrayed Abby Sciuto, left the show due to a reported conflict with Mark Harmon, the series producer. She mentioned on-set tensions and bullying.
- Emily Wickersham, who played Ellie Bishop, left to focus on her family after giving birth to a baby boy.
- Maria Bello, who portrayed Jack Sloane, left to pursue other projects, including producing a drama called “The Woman King.”
- Mark Harmon, the show’s lead, left after 18 years, likely due to his age and the challenging workload as an actor and executive producer.
Despite these departures, some cast members have left on amicable terms and may return in the future. The show’s future remains uncertain, but “NCIS” fans continue to hope for exciting developments.
