Pauley Perrette’s decision to leave NCIS after 15 seasons left fans heartbroken and curious. As the quirky yet brilliant forensic scientist Abby Sciuto, Perrette became an integral part of the show’s success. However, in 2018, she announced her departure, citing a desire to explore new opportunities and challenges in her career. Despite the show’s success and her iconic role, Perrette expressed that she was ready for a change, which included stepping away from the character that had defined much of her acting career.

While the reasons behind her departure were multifaceted, Perrette also hinted at personal experiences on set that led to her decision. She opened up about a difficult working environment, which contributed to her choice to leave the series. Despite these challenges, Perrette emphasized her gratitude for the NCIS family and the opportunity to bring Abby Sciuto to life for so many years. Her departure marked the end of an era for the beloved character, but it also allowed Pauley to move forward with her life and career on her own terms.