For over 15 years, Pauley Perrette lit up our screens as Abby Sciuto, the beloved forensic scientist on NCIS. With her gothic pigtails, lab skills, and quirky charm, Abby became one of TV’s most iconic characters.
But now, Pauley has made it crystal clear: she’s not acting anymore—ever. Fans have held out hope for a return, maybe even a surprise NCIS cameo. But in her own words? It’s not happening.
From TV Stardom to Total Silence
Pauley’s Rise as Abby Sciuto
Pauley joined NCIS in 2003. Over 15 seasons, she became a fan favorite, loved for bringing brains, heart, and a unique gothic aesthetic to crime TV. She wasn’t just a side character—she was the soul of the lab and a cultural icon.
Her Unexpected Exit in 2018
In 2018, she shocked the fandom by leaving NCIS without much explanation. Her final episodes were emotional—and off-screen, the rumors started flying.
Later, Pauley dropped cryptic tweets hinting at behind-the-scenes issues, even citing “multiple physical assaults.”Though she never named names, the implications were serious. The network responded, but the details remained vague.
Why She’s Done For Good
Her Own Words: “I’m Retired. I’m Done.”
In 2022 and again in 2023, Perrette made it clear to fans on social media that she has fully retired from acting. She posted:
“I’m finally and officially retired! And I’m really happy about it!”
She added that she has zero desire to act again. No new shows. No guest spots. Not even a return to NCIS.
The Weight of Trauma and the Cost of Fame
Behind her decision lies a deeper issue. Perrette has spoken publicly about anxiety, trauma, and feeling unsafe in the entertainment industry.
“I left because of multiple physical assaults. I really hope one day people will stop asking me to go back. I’m not ever going back,” she wrote in a now-viral tweet.
It’s clear that her exit wasn’t just career-driven—it was personal and deeply emotional.
The Afterlife of a Star
What Is Pauley Perrette Doing Now?
Since leaving Hollywood, Pauley has embraced a quieter, more creative life. She’s a passionate advocate for animal rights, LGBTQ+ issues, mental health awareness, and disaster relief.
She’s also been creating art, writing poetry, and spending time with her rescue pets. Her Twitter/X account occasionally shares insights, humor, and causes close to her heart—but no acting updates.
She Tried a Comeback—Briefly
In 2020, Perrette starred in the CBS comedy Broke. The show was lighthearted and showcased a different side of her, but it was canceled after one season.
Soon after, she posted that the experience confirmed what she already knew:
“I finally realized I’m done. It was a great way to say goodbye, and I’m at peace with it.”
Why Fans Still Hold Out Hope
Abby Sciuto Left a Legacy
Abby wasn’t just a character. She inspired young women to enter STEM fields, broke stereotypes, and brought heart to crime TV. Even now, fans continue to write to Pauley, asking if she’ll ever come back—even for just one scene.
But she’s been consistent: “Nope. Never.”
Could Anything Change Her Mind?
It seems unlikely. In her own words, she’s found peace. And after years in a demanding industry, she’s finally living life on her own terms.
She’s grateful for the fans, but she’s made a conscious choice: her well-being comes first.
Conclusion: Respecting Pauley’s Journey
Pauley Perrette gave us a character we’ll never forget. And now, she’s given herself something even more valuable: peace.
While it’s hard for fans to accept that Abby won’t be returning, there’s something beautiful about someone walking away when the time feels right.
No more scripts. No more sets. Just a new chapter, lived fully and freely.
❓FAQs
1. Why did Pauley Perrette leave acting for good?
She cited traumatic experiences in Hollywood, including workplace safety concerns, as well as a desire for peace and personal freedom.
2. Will Pauley Perrette ever return to NCIS?
No. She has stated definitively that she will never return to the show or to acting.
3. What is she doing now?
Perrette is living privately, focusing on advocacy, art, and spending time with loved ones and pets.
4. Did she retire from acting voluntarily?
Yes. Despite serious past issues, the final decision to retire was her own, and she says she is happy with it.
5. Where can fans follow her today?
She is active on Twitter/X at @PauleyP, where she occasionally updates fans and promotes causes.
💬 Custom Message:
Thank you for reading and celebrating the powerful legacy of Pauley Perrette. While she may be off-screen for good, her impact lives on. Share this article with fellow fans and remember: sometimes the bravest thing we can do is walk away.
