Why Every Main Character Left NCIS

NCIS has had a long run, but fans have wondered why Abby left NCIS along with a slew of other fan-favorite characters. As one of the longest-running shows on television, NCIS has seen plenty of turnover in its team of special agents. Though some fan favorites make an appearance on NCIS from time to time, other exits have been much more permanent. While most departures from the show were made on a high note, some farewells were less than amicable. Beginning in 2003, NCIS has become a staple in the CBS line-up.

The cast and characters of NCIS are a large part of the series’ success. After more than 20 seasons, it is still one of the most-watched scripted television shows around, pulling in millions of viewers every season. Starting as a spin-off of the hit show JAG, NCIS has launched successful spin-offs in Los Angeles, Hawai’i, and elsewhere. While the many plots and twists of NCIS have entertained fans for almost two decades, it is the characters that provide the true heart of the show. However, it isn’t clear why Mark Harmon and other actors left NCIS.