Pauley Perrette, best known for her iconic role as Abby Sciuto on NCIS, shocked fans when she abruptly left the show in 2018. While rumors swirled about a feud with co-star Mark Harmon, Perrette has since shared a deeper, more personal reason for her departure from both the series and acting altogether.
In a recent interview with Hello Magazine, Perrette revealed that acting had become a toxic escape for her, allowing her to hide from her own struggles by immersing herself in a character. She admitted, “Being an actor… was a great escape. It’s like a drug because I didn’t have to be me, I could be somebody else.” However, as she grew, she realized this pattern was unhealthy, and she began seeking more authenticity in her life.
Now, Perrette is focused on her own well-being and personal growth. She no longer wants to “escape” through acting and has found a new connection to the truth, saying, “I only watch documentaries… I want the truth.” The actress explained that while she’s grateful for her time in the industry, she’s chosen to leave it behind in order to live an authentic life and be herself, in every moment, without the need for a character to hide behind.
While fans may miss her on-screen presence, Pauley Perrette’s decision reflects a strong commitment to self-care and embracing her true self.
