Why Did Pauley Perrette Really Leave 'NCIS?'

Megan Stein
Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images

From Country Living

Pauley Perrette played the beloved Abby Sciuto on NCIS from 2003-2018. Fans loved the eccentric forensic scientist and her relationship with the rest of the characters, including Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs.

But in October 2017, Pauley confirmed that she was leaving the CBS show, and her final episode aired in May 2018. The circumstances surrounding her exit, however, have continued to puzzle audience members.

At the time, she claimed it was a “decision made last year” without much added context. She has since issued several cryptic messages following her first announcement, referencing “physical assaults,” “crime”, and Mark, himself. Keep reading for a breakdown of Pauley’s reasonings, Abby’s goodbye, and the actress’s future.

Why did Pauley really leave NCIS?

When Pauley first shared the news, she shut down any rumors that it was due to network drama, or because of a bourgeoning beauty business. “I DON’T HAVE A SKIN CARE LINE AND NO MY NETWORK AND SHOW ARE NOT MAD AT ME,” she said. “It was a decision made last year.”

In May 2018, however, she posted a series of murky tweets. She mentioned having to "protect my crew, jobs and so many people," as well as "Multiple Physical Assaults" and a "'machine' keeping me silent." Two days later, she sent out another post thanking CBS.

At the time, Pauley had not returned CountryLiving.com’s request for comment, but CBS did release a statement to outlets reading: “Pauley Perrette had a terrific run on NCIS and we are all going to miss her. Over a year ago, Pauley came to us with a workplace concern. We took the matter seriously and worked with her to find a resolution. We are committed to a safe work environment on all of our shows.”

Still, Pauley’s social media messages reignited the rumors about her icy relationship with Mark, which reportedly began after his dog allegedly bit an unidentified crew member in 2016, according to Vanity Fair. It should be mentioned, though, that a source told The Wrap she had decided to leave NCIS before the incident, suggesting that wasn't the sole reason she quit the cast.

In June 2019, the interest around the rift was resurfaced once again. After Cote de Pablo appeared on NCIS’s season 16 finale, Pauley sent out another tweet.

“NO I AM NOT COMING BACK! EVER! (Please stop asking?) I am terrified of Harmon and him attacking me. I have nightmares about it. I have a new show that is SAFE AND HAPPY!” she said.

Both People and Vanity Fair reached out for a response from Mark and CBS, with no reply. The alleged dog incident is currently the only reported example of an alleged attack on set.

Got it. So what happened to Abby Sciuto on the show?

Abby’s sendoff was not quite as much of a mystery. According to Deadline, Abby and Reeves (Duane Henry) were held at gunpoint. Reeves did not survive, but Abby was taken to the hospital after getting shot. The NCIS team discovered she was a target, and tried to track down who was looking to hurt her.

Abby eventually found the culprit herself, and cleverly got him to confess. But the incident shook her enough to leave the NCIS for good. She decided to travel with Reeves’ body back to London and start a charity in his honor, as he died saving her life.

Ugh, I’m still crying. So, what is Pauley Perrette doing after NCIS?

Abby’s time on TV may be over, but Pauley is looking ahead to her next big project. The actress is starring on the CBS midseason comedy, Broke, alongside Jaime Camil. Pauley seems ecstatic about the opportunity, as she shared the trailer in June 2019 following her comments about Mark.

"THE GOOD STUFF," she wrote. "Sorry about the former truths. This is the future. (Gap year and lots of therapy!) just needed to tell the truth and move ON! Love you guys!"

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