Fan favourite Pauley Perrette is leaving NCIS after spending 15 years on the show.
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The 48-year-old announced her departure on Twitter early Wednesday morning, denying multiple reasons for her leaving without specifically stating why. She plans to leave NCIS at the end of Season 15.
In her tweet, she refers to a rumour that was spreading on social media about starting up her own skincare line. She vehemently denies (in all caps) that she has one, and reiterates that she and show’s network, CBS, are not at odds. NCIS airs on Global in Canada.
She said that the decision for her departure was made last year. She’s one of only three original cast members remaining.
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Perrette has been with NCIS since it began in 2003, playing the upbeat, “Goth” forensic specialist Abby Sciuoto.
NCIS and Abby fans were upset at the news.
The show has seen many cast departures over the last few seasons: Cote de Pablo (Ziva David) left NCIS at the beginning of Season 11, Michael Weatherly (Anthony DiNozzo) left to star in Bull at the end of Season 13 and Jennifer Esposito (Alexandra Quinn) only starred on the show for one year.
“We’ve known for some time this would be Pauley’s final season on NCIS and have been working toward a special send-off. From day one, she has brought incredible passion and specificity to the role. Abby is a character that inspires millions of fans around the world, and all of us at NCIS are appreciative of Pauley for portraying her,” said NCIS executive producers George Schenck and Frank Cardea in a statement.
You can watch ‘NCIS’ Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Global.