Former NCIS Star Pauley Perrette Breaks Silence with Emotional Health Update After ‘Massive’ Stroke!

Best known for her role as Abby Sciuto, the quirky and beloved forensic scientist on NCIS, Pauley Perrette brought life and charm to one of television’s most iconic crime dramas. Her departure from the show, however, was accompanied by controversy and personal challenges.

The Reason Behind Her Departure

Perrette’s exit from NCIS reportedly stemmed from behind-the-scenes conflicts, particularly involving her co-star Mark Harmon. According to reports, their relationship soured after Harmon’s dog, who was frequently brought to set, attacked a crew member. Perrette was unhappy with how the incident was handled and felt it was inconsiderate for Harmon to continue bringing the dog to work despite the attack.

While Harmon claimed his Pit Bull was always leashed, other accounts contradicted his statement, adding to the tension.

When Perrette decided to leave the show, she took to social media to share a heartfelt farewell with fans. “I hope everyone will love and enjoy EVERYTHING ABBY not only for the rest of this season but for everything she has given all of us for 16 years,” she wrote. “All the love, all the laughter, all the inspiration… I love her as much as you do.”

Overcoming a Major Health Crisis

In a candid update on her health, the 53-year-old actress revealed that she had suffered a “massive” stroke a year ago. Sharing her story on social media, Perrette expressed gratitude for surviving such a life-altering event.

“It’s 9/2. One year ago I had a massive stroke,” Perrette wrote. “Before that, I lost so many beloved family and friends… Yet still, a survivor after this traumatic life I’ve been given so far. How many times do I cheat death?”

In a video accompanying her post, Perrette spoke about the difficulties she endured, including the loss of her father and cousin prior to her stroke.

“I’ve been through a lot in the last two years — things that are harder than having a stroke,” she said. “But I’m still here and I’m so grateful. And thank you, those of you who are my friends. Thank you. God bless you all. I’m still here.”

The Day of the Stroke

Speaking to Entertainment Now, Perrette detailed the moment she realized something was wrong.

“I woke up and had no feeling on the entire right side of my body,” she recalled. Initially, she thought she had “slept funny,” but as the numbness persisted, she knew it was serious.

“When I couldn’t feel my finger touching my face or my laptop sitting on my lap, I called my doctor, who told me, ‘GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM IMMEDIATELY.’”

Perrette described how quickly things escalated once she arrived at the ER. “I walked in and said, ‘Hey, I can’t feel the right-hand side of my body,’ and… BAM! I was on a gurney with a million things stuck in my arms and medical staff rushing me somewhere. They know how serious a stroke is and how immediate care is imperative.”

A Full Recovery and Advocacy

Now, a year after her stroke, Perrette says she’s fully recovered and feeling healthy.

“I am doing great and am super healthy now,” she told People. Taking the opportunity to raise awareness, Perrette urged everyone to educate themselves about the signs of a stroke. “You can have a stroke AT ANY AGE, which I didn’t know. Teenagers can have a stroke.”

Her Personal Life and Newfound Freedom

When it comes to her personal life, Perrette has always been open about her choices. She was previously married, but after her divorce from Coyote Shivers, she decided to focus on herself.

“Tried it. Not for me. Not at all,” she said of relationships. “Probably the best decision I ever made in my life was the time that it took me to go, ‘Wait a minute. This is silly. I don’t have to have a boyfriend, or a husband, or a girlfriend, or anything, you know?’”

“I don’t need any of that. Like, I do whatever I want. I do whatever I want. And I think that is rad!”

Looking Ahead

Fans are thrilled that Pauley Perrette has overcome her health struggles and hope to see her in new projects soon.

We’re so happy to see her thriving and living life on her own terms.

Feel free to SHARE this story with your family and friends!