After 16 years of captivating audiences as Abby Sciuto on "NCIS," actress Pauley Perrette has announced that she will "never again" return to acting. Perrette, who departed the popular crime show in 2017, has since embraced a new path in the entertainment industry as a producer of documentaries, driven by her pursuit of authenticity and truth.
For nearly two decades, Pauley Perrette's portrayal of forensic specialist Abby Sciuto on "NCIS" made her a beloved figure on television. However, in 2017, she shocked fans by announcing her departure from the show, a decision that had been made the previous year. Since then, Perrette's appearances on screen have been sporadic, with her last acting credit in 2020.
Pauley Perrette Bids Farewell to Acting: "I Will Never Again" Return
In a recent interview with HELLO!, Perrette revealed her unwavering resolve to never return to acting. "I'm not ungrateful for the benefits that it gave to me," she said. "But I'm a different person now and I want to be here for it – the good and the bad and the painful."
Perrette's decision stems from her deep-seated need for authenticity. "I want to be me all the time," she explained. "And it takes a good amount of courage for me to say that to myself, but it's authentically how I feel."
Pauley Perrette Bids Farewell to Acting: "I Will Never Again" Return
Reflecting on her acting past, Perrette acknowledged that it served as an escape during challenging times. "Being an actor, especially at certain points in my life, was a great escape," she said. "It's like a drug because I didn't have to be me, I could be somebody else. My character didn't have all of the problems that I was having."
However, Perrette's focus has now shifted towards seeking truth and authenticity through her work as a producer of documentaries. "It's why I only watch documentaries, I want the truth," she said. "For me, going back to being an actor would be taking away from this life of true authenticity that I'm living 100% of the time."
Pauley Perrette Bids Farewell to Acting: "I Will Never Again" Return
Perrette's departure from "NCIS" was marked by controversy. In the aftermath of her final episode, she took to social media to allege that she had endured "multiple physical assaults," implying that it was the reason for her exit. However, the nature of the alleged incidents remains unclear.
Despite the lingering questions, Perrette has expressed gratitude towards CBS and the network for addressing her workspace concerns. The studio announced that it had conducted an investigation and that Perrette's issues had been resolved prior to her departure.
Pauley Perrette Bids Farewell to Acting: "I Will Never Again" Return
As "NCIS" continues its successful run on television, Perrette has embarked on a new chapter in her career. She remains actively involved in the entertainment industry, but behind the camera as a producer. Her transition reflects her desire for authenticity and her passion for bringing stories that resonate with audiences.
