**We Finally Know Why These Stars Left NCIS**
After 23 seasons, CBS’s “NCIS” remains one of television’s longest-running and most popular dramas, but none of the original cast members remain. Over the years, many beloved actors have left for a variety of reasons—ranging from personal priorities to creative decisions and behind-the-scenes drama. Here’s why some of the series’ biggest stars moved on.
**David McCallum (Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard):**
McCallum played the chief medical examiner from the show’s start in 2003. By season 16, Ducky stepped down, though he stayed on as NCIS historian. McCallum wanted a lighter schedule to spend more time with his family in New York, after years of commuting to LA. He continued with the show in a limited capacity until his death in September 2023 at age 90. NCIS honored him with a special episode in February 2024.
**Emily Wickersham (Ellie Bishop):**
Wickersham joined in season 11 and left at the end of season 18. She explained that after nearly eight years and 172 episodes, she was ready for something new. Her departure wasn’t due to her pregnancy—she found out she was expecting a month after leaving. Wickersham said she wanted more time for herself and, eventually, motherhood.
**Maria Bello (Jack Sloane):**
Bello joined in season 15 with a three-year contract. When it ended, she chose not to renew, citing a commitment to produce the film “The Woman King.” She praised the NCIS cast and crew for their kindness and professionalism.
**Mark Harmon (Leroy Jethro Gibbs):**
Harmon’s portrayal of Gibbs became iconic. He left in season 18, saying the timing felt right for a break, but he remains involved as executive producer and narrator for the prequel “NCIS: Origins.” Harmon even made a brief return for a special crossover in 2025.
**Pauley Perrette (Abby Sciuto):**
Perrette played the beloved forensic scientist Abby for 15 seasons before her sudden exit. She cited burnout and discomfort with fame, but also pointed to behind-the-scenes issues. Tensions with Mark Harmon reportedly escalated after an on-set incident involving Harmon’s dog. Perrette later made public allegations about a toxic work environment, claiming she’d heard racist and misogynistic slurs on set.
**Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo):**
Weatherly spent 13 seasons as DiNozzo before leaving in 2016, citing burnout and a desire for new challenges. He went on to star in CBS’s “Bull,” but was later accused of sexual harassment by co-star Eliza Dushku, resulting in a $9.5 million settlement.
**Sasha Alexander (Kate Todd):**
Alexander’s character was killed off in season 2. She found the show’s grueling schedule overwhelming and asked to leave, a request the producers honored. Alexander went on to star in “Rizzoli & Isles” and other projects.
**Lauren Holly (Jenny Shepard):**
Holly’s role was initially intended to be short-term, but she became a regular for several seasons. She left after growing bored with the role and expressed disappointment over showrunner Don Bellisario’s forced exit. Holly later supported Perrette’s claims about CBS’s toxic culture.
**Cote de Pablo (Ziva David):**
De Pablo’s departure in 2013 was abrupt and, by her own account, not her choice. She has since returned for guest appearances and remains on good terms with the cast.
**Duane Henry (Clayton Reeves):**
Henry’s character was written out after showrunner Gary Glasberg’s death. He left on good terms, grateful for the opportunity and the character’s heroic exit.
**Muse Watson (Mike Franks):**
Watson’s character was killed for shock value, but he later returned for flashbacks and dream sequences, leaving on amicable terms.
**Pancho Demmings (Gerald Jackson):**
Demmings’ storyline was dropped unexpectedly after season 3. He has expressed willingness to return and provide closure for his character.
**Zoe McLellan (Meredith Brody):**
McLellan joined “NCIS: New Orleans” but was fired after two seasons, reportedly due to creative and controversial decisions by showrunner Brad Kern, who was later dismissed for misconduct.
**Lucas Black (Christopher LaSalle):**
Black left “NCIS: New Orleans” to prioritize family and personal life after years in the industry. His exit was amicable and supported by his co-stars.
From personal growth to creative changes and workplace controversies, the reasons these stars left NCIS are as varied as the characters they played. Their departures mark the end of eras, but the show continues to evolve and thrive, proving the enduring appeal of its stories and cast.
