The Departure of Pauley Perrette: Why Abby Sciuto’s Exit from NCIS Was More Than Just a Goodbye
In the world of television, supporting characters often make their mark, becoming icons in their own right. Pauley Perrette’s portrayal of Abby Sciuto on NCIS was one of those unforgettable roles. A goth forensic scientist with a heart of gold, Abby quickly became a fan favorite, contributing to NCIS’s rise to popularity. However, after 15 seasons, Perrette made the difficult decision to leave the show, leaving fans to question what really happened behind the scenes.
Abby Sciuto: A Character Like No Other
Abby Sciuto was a character that shouldn’t have worked—her edgy appearance, complete with goth clothing, pigtails, and tattoos, seemed at odds with her high-level expertise in forensics, criminology, and psychology. But Perrette brought this quirky character to life with a blend of warmth, humor, and intelligence, making Abby one of the most beloved figures in the NCIS universe.
Her eccentricity—her love for caffeine, her love for her team, and her unyielding positivity—made her stand out in a world full of suits and serious faces. Abby became the glue holding the team together, offering a contrast to the often gruff characters around her, like Gibbs and DiNozzo. Fans quickly warmed to her infectious personality, and Abby became more than just a supporting character—she became an integral part of the show.
The Departure: Behind the Scenes Tensions
Abby’s exit from NCIS wasn’t just a storyline choice—it was a reflection of real-life tensions on set. On-screen, Abby resigned from her position at NCIS after surviving an assassination attempt, offering a tearful farewell to her colleagues. However, the absence of one key character from her farewell episode spoke volumes. Mark Harmon’s Jethro Gibbs was the only main character not to share a scene with Abby in her final episode, instead receiving a letter from her while she watches from a distance.
The reason behind this absence stems from a reportedly tense off-screen relationship between Perrette and Harmon, dating back to 2016. According to reports, Harmon’s dog bit a crew member on set, leading to significant injuries. Perrette allegedly struggled with the aftermath, feeling unsafe and uncomfortable around Harmon. Though Perrette never publicly revealed the full details, she alluded to the incident on Twitter, hinting at a series of physical and emotional clashes. She later tweeted, “I am terrified of Harmon and him attacking me. I have nightmares about it.”
The Aftermath: A New Chapter
After leaving NCIS, Perrette moved on to a new project: Broke, a sitcom where she played a suburban single mother. Despite her excitement about the role, the show was canceled after one season. Perrette then made a public statement in 2020 that she had “happily retired” from acting, turning her focus to working on documentaries. She has remained firm in her decision, stating she would never return to NCIS.
Her absence has been deeply felt on the show. While NCIS continues to be a ratings powerhouse, it has struggled to recapture the magic that Abby brought to the team. Perrette’s departure marked the end of an era for the series, one that will never be the same without her bubbly energy and unique character.
With Mark Harmon’s departure from the series in 2021, NCIS has entered a new chapter, and though Abby will never return, fans still remember the impact that Pauley Perrette’s character had on the show and the lasting legacy she left behind.
Where to Watch
NCIS is available to stream in the U.S. on Paramount+. The show continues to captivate audiences, but Abby Sciuto’s absence remains a key point in its evolution.
