For over two decades, NCIS has remained one of network television’s most reliable powerhouses. With its gripping blend of military crime-solving and character-driven drama, the show has spawned multiple spin-offs, captured millions of loyal viewers worldwide, and made household names out of its cast. But behind the seemingly bulletproof ratings and long-running success lies a history riddled with off-screen tension, sudden departures, and headline-making exits that left fans both heartbroken and suspicious.
From Pauley Perrette’s mysterious goodbye as Abby Sciuto to Cote de Pablo’s abrupt exit and later return as Ziva David, NCIS has had its fair share of drama beyond the scripted cases. Here’s a deeper dive into the most controversial and whispered-about cast departures in NCIS history—and the truth behind them.
Pauley Perrette’s Shocking Exit: “I Am Terrified”
Pauley Perrette’s 2018 departure rocked the NCIS fanbase. After playing quirky forensic scientist Abby Sciuto for 15 seasons, Perrette’s exit was initially framed as a peaceful goodbye. But soon after, cryptic tweets from the actress hinted at a far more complicated reality.
“I left. I did it for multiple reasons. I’m not looking for sympathy, just to tell the truth. Please don’t ask me to go back,” she tweeted, adding, “There is a ‘machine’ keeping me silent and feeding false stories about me.” The most alarming moment came when she claimed, “I am terrified of Harmon and him attacking me. I have nightmares.”
While she never publicly named names in her more serious allegations, reports swirled that a dog bite incident on set involving Mark Harmon’s pit bull created irreparable tension. Despite attempts to downplay the situation by CBS executives, fans were left unsettled by the actress’s emotional revelations. Her final episodes were filmed separately from Harmon, further fanning speculation of a rift.
Cote de Pablo’s Disappearance—and Surprise Comeback
When Cote de Pablo chose not to return for Season 11 as Ziva David, one of the most beloved characters in NCIS history, it felt like a punch to the gut. The actress, known for her steely yet vulnerable portrayal of the Israeli Mossad officer-turned-agent, left fans—and even producers—scrambling for answers.
At the time, CBS released a statement that her departure was her own decision. De Pablo, meanwhile, remained vague, saying only that the scripts didn’t do her character justice. “I didn’t like the way that she was going to be treated,” she said in 2016. “Until someone can write something really fantastic for Ziva, I won’t go back.”
Shockingly, that changed in 2019 when she returned for a surprise appearance in the Season 16 finale and a four-episode arc in Season 17. Her return sparked joy—and curiosity. Had tensions finally cooled between her and the network? Or was the storyline simply too good to pass up?
Michael Weatherly’s Exit and Legal Controversies
Michael Weatherly’s exit in Season 13 as fan-favorite Tony DiNozzo was initially seen as a graceful transition. “It came about at the right time,” Weatherly said at the time, crediting his departure to wanting a new creative challenge. He later went on to headline CBS’s Bull.
However, his post-NCIS career soon hit a roadblock. In 2018, Bull co-star Eliza Dushku accused Weatherly of sexual harassment on set, leading to a $9.5 million settlement from CBS. The incident cast a shadow over his legacy at the network and reopened conversations about workplace culture on CBS procedural dramas.
While Weatherly has continued to publicly support his former NCIS castmates and has teased a return in interviews, the scandal remains a blemish on his otherwise celebrated TV career.
Mark Harmon’s Quiet Goodbye
After leading the series since its inception, Mark Harmon’s reduced presence in Season 19 raised eyebrows—and questions. By episode four, his character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs, retired and headed off into the Alaskan wilderness, marking Harmon’s final appearance as a series regular.
Unlike other exits, Harmon’s departure was quiet and dignified. CBS emphasized he remained an executive producer, and Harmon himself never ruled out a future return. But insiders hinted at years of burnout, creative differences with network brass, and a desire to step back from the grueling TV schedule.
Still, his absence marks the end of an era. For many fans, Gibbs was NCIS, and his retirement felt like the series closing a significant chapter—even if it continues without him.
Other Notable Departures: Sasha Alexander, Emily Wickersham, and Jennifer Esposito
Sasha Alexander’s departure after Season 2 as Caitlin Todd was one of the earliest shocks. The actress later revealed the pace of the show was grueling, saying, “I didn’t think I could do it for six or seven years.” Her character was famously killed off in the Season 2 finale.
Emily Wickersham’s sudden departure in Season 18 as Ellie Bishop was also unexpected. She thanked fans and producers in an emotional Instagram post, but fans speculated that her exit was abrupt and unexplained onscreen. Jennifer Esposito, who played Alex Quinn for one season, also disappeared without a clear in-show explanation.
So… What’s the Real Story Behind These Departures?
Like any long-running show, NCIS has evolved with the times—both on camera and behind it. But the franchise has been undeniably shaped by its cast’s departures, each leaving behind a trail of fan speculation and behind-the-scenes whispers.
While network politics, demanding schedules, personal values, and creative differences all played their part, one thing is clear: no cast member leaves without impacting the emotional DNA of the show. The real mystery, perhaps, isn’t just who left or why—but how NCIS continues to adapt, endure, and thrive even after saying goodbye to its biggest stars.
What’s Next for NCIS?
With the flagship still running, spin-offs like NCIS: Hawai’i gaining momentum, and prequels like NCIS: Origins revving up for new seasons, the NCIS universe isn’t slowing down. And neither are the whispers about who might return—or leave—next.
Because in the world of NCIS, no secret stays buried forever.
