NCIS has one of television’s longest runs.

Despite its success, the show has a considerable cast turnover. The departure of beloved figures has left fans asking why. Look at the intriguing reasons key cast members left.

Sasha Alexander’s Unexpected Departure:

The first major shock to fans was Sasha Alexander’s departure as Kate Todd. Her character was suddenly killed after two seasons.

Sasha later wanted to be released from her contract owing to the unanticipated strain of her rigorous schedule.

Donald Bellisario acknowledged Alexander’s impassioned plea, stressing the struggle of creating 24 episodes a year, 10.5 months a year, and 17-hour workdays. Despite the contract breach, the actress and showrunners were friendly.

Abrupt Cote de Pablo Exit:

After Alexander left, Cote de Pablo impressed audiences as Mossad spy Ziva David. Fans and cast were confused when de Pablo abruptly quit the show in Season 11.

De Pablo first cited personal reasons for her retirement, but later emphasized that the scripts and character portrayal were deficient. Ziva’s departure’s cause is unknown.

Lauren Holly’s Role Boredom:

Lauren Holly was enthused about her NCIS director arc, but after two years, she was bored. Holly, depressed by showrunner Don Bellisario’s departure, embraced the choice to kill off her character, ending her nearly 50-episode reign.

Michael Weatherly Burnout:

Burnout forced Michael Weatherly, an NCIS veteran, to leave after 13 seasons. To change, Weatherly found a new project in the judicial drama “Bull.” Despite leaving the door open for a return, Weatherly’s resignation ended an era for supporters.

Jennifer Esposito’s Brief Residency:

Alex Quinn, played by Jennifer Esposito, left NCIS after one season. Esposito said she left to care for her mother, which was always temporary. Esposito’s brief term raised questions about health difficulties.

Pauley Perrette’s Startling News:

Her resignation was controversial since Pauley Perrette blamed a problematic relationship with Mark Harmon, her co-star. Perrette abruptly quit after making shocking claims about set assaults and a toxic work environment. The nightmare-prone actress claimed she left because she resisted mistreatment.

Emily Wickersham’s Exit Mystery:

Emily Wickersham’s Season 18 finale departure as Ellie Bishop left fans intrigued. The actress hinted at wanting something fresh but subsequently confessed she put her career on hold to focus on family after welcoming a baby boy in December.

Graceful Maria Bello Farewell:

Maria Bello, who played forensic psychologist Jacqueline Sloane, quit the show after being happy with her character’s storyline. Bello declined a contract renewal to pursue other projects, including her female-centric drama “The Woman King.”

Mark Harmon is leaving after 18 years.

Mark Harmon, the main actor for 18 years, unexpectedly left his renowned role as Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Harmon did not specify his departure, but age-related difficulties and the demanding schedule of performing and producing were suggested. Fans were intrigued when showrunner Steven Binder suggested Gibbs would return after Harmon left.

Even after major cast changes, NCIS remains popular. Each exit has added to the show’s rich history, leaving fans ready for its next chapter.