Why Pauley Perrette Vanished from TV — And What She’s Doing Now Will Shock You!

NCIS Star Pauley Perrette Stepped Away from Fame — Here’s What She’s Doing Now

Pauley Perrette became a household name as the quirky, brilliant Abby Sciuto on NCIS, a role she played for 15 seasons. But after leaving the show in 2017, fans were left wondering: where did she go?

Before her NCIS fame, Perrette got her start in commercials, voice-overs, music videos, and short films, eventually moving to Los Angeles in the ‘90s to pursue acting. Her big break came with NCIS, where her portrayal of the gothic forensic scientist became a fan-favorite. But after years on the show, Perrette shocked viewers by walking away from the series — and later, from acting altogether.

Though she initially stayed quiet about her exit, Perrette later revealed that off-screen tensions, particularly with co-star Mark Harmon, were a major factor in her decision to leave. After one final lead role in a short-lived sitcom, she retired from acting completely.

In a rare 2024 interview with Hello! Magazine, Perrette opened up about her new life. “I want to be me all the time,” she said. “It takes a good amount of courage for me to say that to myself, but it’s authentically how I feel.”

While grateful for what acting gave her, Perrette has shifted her energy toward behind-the-scenes work, focusing on executive producing documentaries. “At this point in my life, I have this deep need to find authenticity in everything,” she explained. “Being an actor was a great escape… my character didn’t have all the problems I was having.”

Now, Perrette says she finds solace in truth. “It’s why I only watch documentaries,” she added. “I want the truth.”

Though she may have left Hollywood behind, Pauley Perrette is still writing her story — this time, on her own terms.