For more than two decades, Brian Dietzen has been a familiar face to NCIS fans as Dr. Jimmy Palmer. Starting as a recurring guest star in 2004, he quickly became a fan favorite, eventually earning a spot as a series regular in 2012. His journey on the show reflects both his talent and his dedication, with Palmer evolving from a shy assistant to the confident Chief Medical Examiner. Despite the rumors that occasionally swirl online, Dietzen has never been permanently removed from NCIS. In fact, he remains an integral part of the team, both on screen and behind the scenes.

While the actor has never faced the dramatic ousting some gossip outlets suggest, he has made real sacrifices to stay with the show. In interviews, Dietzen has admitted that committing to such a long-running series meant passing on other acting opportunities. Choosing stability and collaboration over constant change, he prioritized the close-knit environment on set and the consistency of playing a character he loves. For him, the reward has been more than worth the trade-off.

Off-screen, Dietzen has endured personal challenges, including serious health scares, but he’s never let them derail his work. His resilience and loyalty to NCIS have only deepened fans’ respect for him. Far from a departure, his continued presence on the series serves as proof that dedication and passion can sustain a career over decades in Hollywood. Brian Dietzen’s story isn’t one of removal—it’s one of perseverance, gratitude, and choosing the path that feels right.