NCIS will always be a perfect show for any crime drama fan. It also has a gripping storyline that perfectly sets the stage for more thrilling moments. Also, the fact that it has been running for more than two decades solidifies its place as one of the most sought-after shows out there. Given this huge duration, several changes took place within the cast of the show.
While some actors joined in later seasons, others left the show midway as well. One such actress was Sasha Alexander, who was introduced in NCIS as Special Agent Caitlin “Kate” Todd in the very first season. She immediately became a fan favorite and had a strong presence in the show as well.

However, her shocking exit at the end of the show’s second season caught everyone off guard. Let’s look at the reasons why she made this decision and a surprising twist in the entire story as well.
The real reason why Sasha Alexander left NCIS
As soon as she stepped into NCIS as Special Agent Kate, Sasha Alexander quickly captured the viewers with her brilliant acting chops. She had undeniable chemistry with her co-stars, and her strong screen presence was unmatched. But she left everyone looking for answers when she suddenly decided to quit the show after just two seasons.

Over the years, many fans believed that the show’s brutal and tough schedule was just too much for her. But after a while the actress herself detailed the real reason and set the record straight. While the long hours were indeed difficult for her, it wasn’t the only reason why she stepped back from the role. For more context: Her character Kate Todd actually died an unexpected death during the Season 2 finale.
This obviously came as a shock to many, and creator Don Bellisario commented on this as well. He detailed that the actress simply didn’t have the stamina for the demanding production schedule of NCIS via Irish Star. So, it seemed like a reasonable explanation for her exit; after all, the show did demand long hours, sometimes even up to 17 hours daily. But in an interview, Sasha Alexander detailed that wasn’t the full story.
She said, “But that is not the reason I left the show,” when she was asked the reason for her departure. But she also refused to reveal the real details and added, “I can’t really talk about it.” While NCIS was indeed tough, she added that she wasn’t struggling with the physical demands. She’s also a former Olympic-trained ice skater, so she’s used to pushing herself physically.
So, instead, she revealed that sometimes a job isn’t the right fit, “And some of them have an expiration date.” Despite her decision to leave the show, Alexander had no regrets and still looks back fondly on her time as Kate Todd.
Michael Weatherly gives an update on NCIS: Tony & Ziva

It seems like fans of NCIS have more reasons to celebrate. While they are eagerly waiting for the return of Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David, actor Michael Weatherly just gave them more reasons to be happy. The actor recently hinted that the filming for the highly anticipated spinoff NCIS: Tony & Ziva has officially wrapped up. In a rather playful post on X, he shared a selfie in his bathtub.
Ahhh… finally wrapping Season 1 of NCIS: Tony & Ziva… and feeling how much I love bath tubs. pic.twitter.com/RfBlTEYrWZ
— Michael Weatherly (@M_Weatherly) February 20, 2025
This update obviously sent the fans into a frenzy, and they started flooding his comments section. Given that both Weatherly and Cote de Pablo are featured in the show together, excitement is running high. The spinoff, which is slated to premiere on Paramount+ later this year, will pick up the story from where NCIS left off, with Tony and Ziva raising their daughter, Tali, in Paris.
But given the premise of the show, their life won’t be as peaceful as it seems. With the production now reportedly being completed, fans won’t have to wait much longer in order to see the stars on screen once again.
You can watch NCIS on Paramount+.
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