Pauley Perrette, best known for playing the quirky forensic scientist Abby Sciuto on NCIS, was one of the show’s most beloved characters for over 15 seasons. Her unique style, compassionate heart, and sharp intellect made her a fan favorite, and her chemistry with the rest of the cast helped cement the show’s success. So when she left the series in 2018, many fans were shocked and heartbroken.

Behind the scenes, Pauley’s departure was not without controversy. She later hinted at having experienced a “toxic work environment” that made her fear for her safety, though she didn’t name names directly. These revelations left fans stunned and added a layer of sadness to her otherwise celebrated run on the show.

Since leaving NCIS, Pauley has largely stepped away from acting. She appeared in a short-lived sitcom called Broke, but afterward announced her retirement from acting altogether. She’s remained active on social media, advocating for causes she cares about and maintaining her unique public presence.

Despite her absence from television, Pauley Perrette is still remembered fondly by NCIS fans. Abby Sciuto remains an iconic character, and many viewers continue to hope that someday, even for a brief cameo, Pauley might return to the role that made her a household name.