Exclusive: Pauley Perrette Explains Why She Will ‘Never’ Return to Acting After NCIS in a Rare Interview
In a candid and rare interview, beloved former NCIS star Pauley Perrette has opened up about her decision to leave the world of acting behind for good. Best known for her iconic portrayal of forensic scientist Abby Sciuto on the hit CBS show, Perrette stepped away from the spotlight after departing NCIS in 2018, and now, she’s revealing why she has no plans to return.
Perrette’s departure from NCIS after 15 seasons shocked fans, as Abby was a fan-favorite character, known for her quirky, gothic style and brilliant investigative mind. While many speculated about her exit, Perrette remained relatively quiet about her reasons, until now. In the interview, she explained that her decision to retire from acting was deeply personal, driven by a desire for peace and healing after years in the intense spotlight of Hollywood.
“I loved Abby. She’ll always be a part of me. But acting, it’s just not something I want in my life anymore,” Perrette shared. She went on to discuss how the rigors of being in the public eye, the pressures of the industry, and some difficult experiences during her time on NCIS contributed to her decision. “It’s not who I am anymore. I’ve moved on to other things that fulfill me more.”
Since leaving acting, Perrette has focused on her passion for philanthropy and activism. She’s a vocal advocate for numerous causes, from animal rights to social justice issues. Her life now revolves around giving back and making a difference in the world, something she says brings her much more joy and satisfaction than acting ever did. “I’m incredibly happy now, doing the things that matter to me, things that make a real difference,” she said. “I don’t miss the limelight. I’ve found peace in a new chapter of my life.”
Perrette also touched on the mental and emotional toll that a long career in show business can take. “I went through a lot, personally and professionally,” she admitted, referencing the challenges she faced during her time in Hollywood. While she didn’t go into extensive detail, she hinted at incidents that made her feel unsafe, something she had previously alluded to in social media posts after her NCIS exit.
Despite her love for her character and her gratitude for the support from fans, Perrette remains firm that she has closed the door on acting for good. “I know people would love to see me back on screen, but I’m just not that person anymore. It was a great chapter, but I’m writing a new book now, and I’m so much happier.”
Her message was clear: while she remains grateful for her time on NCIS, she’s fully embracing a new path in life, one that allows her to focus on her passions and well-being. For Pauley Perrette, life after acting is a story of self-discovery, advocacy, and finding peace away from the cameras.
