When Cote de Pablo made the bold decision to leave NCIS in 2013, many wondered if she would regret stepping away from such a successful role. However, in interviews after her departure, de Pablo revealed that one of the most beautiful aspects of quitting the show was the sense of personal liberation it brought. She described how leaving behind a role she had lived and breathed for almost a decade allowed her to rediscover her passion for acting and find new creative opportunities. The freedom to explore different projects without being tethered to the demanding schedule of NCIS was, for her, a revitalizing experience.

In addition to regaining her creative independence, de Pablo found peace in knowing that she made the choice on her own terms. Rather than being forced out or stuck in a role that no longer inspired her, she embraced the unknown and embarked on a journey that aligned with her evolving goals and values. The decision to leave NCIS opened up new doors in her career, allowing her to take on diverse roles and pursue work that truly resonated with her. For de Pablo, quitting wasn’t just an ending—it was the beginning of a new chapter in her life.