Bebe Neuwirth Exits CBS Drama Series ‘Madam Secretary’

Secretary of State Elizabeth McCord’s Chief of Staff Nadine Tolliver is leaving the State Department — for good. Bebe Neuwirth announced Sunday night in a series of tweets that she has decided to leave CBS’ Madam Secretary. Neuwirth has been a series regular since the political drama premiered in 2014.

During Sunday night’s episode, Nadine was told by her son, Roman (Ethan Peck), that she was going to be a grandma. In light of the Elizabeth & Co. shutdown, Roman then asked whether she could help with a travel problem for his expectant girlfriend to relocate with him to the Bay Area. Nadine went before Homeland Security and the problem was solved.

But after initially asking for leave to spend time with her family, Nadine decided her leave would become permanent.

“You’re right. I won’t be coming back from that leave. I love public service, but it’s gotten so vicious,” she told Elizabeth (Téa Leoni). “Somehow, we’ve become our own worst enemy. And I don’t want to spend the rest of my career fighting.”

Neuwirth’s co-star Erich Bergen sent a fond farewell to his colleague on Twitter.

Related stories

CBS Developing CIA Workplace Comedy From 'Big Bang Theory's Simon Helberg & Jocelyn Towne

'Magnum P.I.' Reboot In the Works At CBS

'Thursday Night Football' Ratings Down As Raiders Score Close Win Over Chiefs

Get more from Deadline.com: Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Newsletter