Introduction – Life Beyond the Naval Crime Drama
NCIS isn’t just one of the longest-running crime dramas in TV history — it’s a cultural phenomenon. Over its two-decade run, many of its stars have come and gone, leaving fans wondering: Where are they now? From Mark Harmon’s quiet exit to Pauley Perrette’s explosive departure, the show’s alumni have taken on everything from activism to directing, to simply enjoying well-earned time away from the spotlight. Let’s catch up with your favorite former NCIS cast members and find out what they’re up to in 2025.
Mark Harmon (Leroy Jethro Gibbs)
Quietly Retired — But Still Connected
After portraying the iconic Leroy Jethro Gibbs for nearly 20 years, Mark Harmon officially left NCIS in Season 19. While his exit was understated, Harmon remains an executive producer on the show, still influencing the world he helped build.
Life After Gibbs
In 2023, Harmon co-authored the book Ghosts of Honolulu, diving into real naval intelligence history — a fitting extension of his NCIS legacy. As of 2025, he’s enjoying a low-key lifestyle with his family and has no immediate plans to return to acting, though fans still hope for a surprise cameo.
Michael Weatherly (Anthony “Tony” DiNozzo)
From NCIS to Bull
After leaving NCIS in 2016, Weatherly went on to star in Bull, a courtroom drama inspired by Dr. Phil’s early career. The show ran for six seasons, wrapping up in 2022.
A Possible Return to NCIS?
In 2024, Weatherly finally confirmed what fans had long suspected: he would reprise his role as DiNozzo in the upcoming NCIS Europe spin-off, co-starring Cote de Pablo (Ziva David). Slated for late 2025, the new series promises to explore Tony and Ziva’s life together in Paris — and fans are buzzing.
Pauley Perrette (Abby Sciuto)
A Sudden and Emotional Departure
Pauley Perrette left NCIS in 2018 amid controversy, hinting at behind-the-scenes tensions that she later confirmed involved physical assault allegations. Her exit was emotional for fans, as Abby was a fan favorite known for her goth style and big heart.
Life After the Lab
After a brief run in the sitcom Broke, which ended after one season, Perrette officially retired from acting in 2020. Since then, she’s become a vocal advocate for mental health, animal rights, and social justice causes. She occasionally connects with fans via social media but has chosen a much quieter public life.
Cote de Pablo (Ziva David)
From Disappearance to Comeback
Ziva David was thought dead for years — until her dramatic return in Season 16. Cote de Pablo had left NCIS in 2013 to pursue other opportunities but stayed largely out of the spotlight until her return.
What’s Next for Ziva?
Fans are thrilled that de Pablo will return alongside Michael Weatherly in the NCIS Europe spinoff. Her character’s chemistry with DiNozzo has been legendary, and this reunion is shaping up to be one of the biggest NCIS events in years.
Sasha Alexander (Caitlin Todd)
A Short But Impactful Run
Sasha Alexander left NCIS after just two seasons, with her character Caitlin Todd meeting a tragic end. Despite her early departure, her role remains iconic.
Post-NCIS Projects
Alexander found lasting success in Rizzoli & Isles, which ran for seven seasons. She’s since pivoted into directing, working behind the scenes on hit shows like You and Lucifer. In 2025, she continues directing high-profile episodes for streaming dramas.
David McCallum (Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard)
The Heart and Soul of NCIS
David McCallum played the beloved Dr. Ducky Mallard for two decades, offering wisdom, warmth, and British charm. In recent years, his appearances were reduced, reflecting both his age and a natural winding down of his character’s arc.
A Fond Farewell
Sadly, McCallum passed away in late 2023 at the age of 90. The NCIS family honored his legacy with a beautiful tribute episode. He remains a cherished part of the show’s history and a fan favorite for life.
Emily Wickersham (Ellie Bishop)
A Surprise Exit
Emily Wickersham’s Agent Bishop left the show in Season 18 with an unexpected twist — her character went undercover, setting the stage for a possible return.
Motherhood and New Projects
Wickersham welcomed her first child in 2021 and has taken time off to focus on motherhood. She’s hinted at returning to TV and has reportedly been in talks for a role in a new streaming thriller series.
Lauren Holly (Jenny Shepard)
A Powerful but Short Reign
Lauren Holly’s Jenny Shepard was a commanding force as NCIS Director before being killed off in Season 5. Her exit left a major emotional impact.
Back on the Small Screen
Since NCIS, Holly has appeared in various shows, including Designated Survivor and Tiny Pretty Things. In 2025, she’s producing and starring in an upcoming crime drama on Netflix.
Jennifer Esposito (Alexandra Quinn)
A One-Season Wonder
Jennifer Esposito joined NCIS for just one season, playing Special Agent Alexandra Quinn. While her time was brief, she made a lasting impression.
Wellness, Writing, and Acting
After her NCIS stint, Esposito focused on health advocacy and writing. She also returned to acting in indie films and is set to release a health-focused memoir later this year.
Zoe McLellan (Meredith Brody – NCIS: New Orleans)
A Spin-Off Departure
Zoe McLellan left NCIS: New Orleans after just two seasons, citing personal reasons. Her character, Meredith Brody, was well-liked but written out without much closure.
Personal Struggles and Legal Battles
McLellan has faced ongoing legal challenges related to custody issues, and she’s largely stepped away from the public eye. There’s been no word of a return to acting as of 2025.
Lucas Black (Christopher LaSalle – NCIS: New Orleans)
Leaving for Family
Lucas Black left NCIS: New Orleans in 2019 to spend more time with his family. He made it clear he wanted to reprioritize his personal life.
A Return to Roots
In 2025, Black has returned to independent film and even launched a YouTube channel where he shares faith-based content and outdoor adventures.
What These Stars Teach Us About Moving On
Leaving a hit show like NCIS isn’t easy — especially when your character becomes part of television history. But these actors show that life after NCIS can be just as fulfilling, whether it means taking on new roles, exploring personal passions, or simply stepping back to enjoy life.
Conclusion – The NCIS Legacy Lives On
NCIS may be about crime-solving, but its heart lies in its characters. The departures of beloved cast members were often tough on fans, but they’ve each gone on to pursue paths that reflect their values, talents, and dreams. Whether it’s Mark Harmon writing books or Pauley Perrette advocating for justice, the NCIS legacy extends far beyond the small screen.
Their stories remind us that endings are just the beginning of something new — and often, just as compelling.
FAQs
Q1: Will Mark Harmon ever return to NCIS?
There’s no confirmed return, but producers and Harmon have both left the door open. Fans remain hopeful for at least a cameo.
Q2: Are Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo reuniting?
Yes! They’re set to co-star in NCIS: Europe, premiering in late 2025.
Q3: Why did Pauley Perrette leave NCIS?
She left due to safety concerns on set and has since retired from acting.
