Pauley Perrette, best known for her iconic role as Abby Sciuto on the hit series *NCIS*, has made headlines not only for her acting career but also for her surprising departure from Hollywood. After 15 successful seasons on the show, Perrette stepped away from the spotlight, leaving fans to wonder about her life beyond the camera. In this article, we delve into her journey after *NCIS*, exploring her new passions, personal challenges, and the values that guide her today.
Perrette’s career began in the 1990s, where she took on various roles in commercials, voice-overs, and short films before relocating to Los Angeles. Her breakthrough came when she was cast as Abby, a quirky forensic scientist with a love for all things goth. The character quickly became a fan favorite, and Perrette’s portrayal earned her a dedicated following. However, her time on *NCIS* came to a dramatic halt in 2017, when she announced her exit from the show.
Initially, the reasons behind her departure were shrouded in mystery, but Perrette later revealed that her decision was influenced by offscreen issues with former co-star Mark Harmon. She described her experience on the set as increasingly difficult, stating that it had become “a very dark place” for her. In a candid interview with *Hello! Magazine* in 2024, Perrette expressed her desire to embrace authenticity in her life, stating, “I want to be here for it—the good and the bad and the painful. I want to be me all the time.”
After leaving *NCIS*, Perrette took on a single lead role in the short-lived sitcom *Broke* in 2020 before officially retiring from acting. In her new chapter, she has shifted her focus to documentary production, seeking to create work that aligns with her values of authenticity and truth. “At this point in my life, I have this deep need to find authenticity in everything,” she explained. “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.”
Perrette’s start in the entertainment industry was marked by a variety of experiences. She first appeared on screen in a 1994 ABC Afterschool Special, and her career included roles on shows like *Frasier*, *The Drew Carey Show*, and *Veronica’s Closet*. Beyond acting, she explored her creative side through poetry and documentary production. Additionally, she co-owned Donna Bell’s Bake Shop, named after her mother, which operated for nearly a decade before closing in 2020.
Despite her success, Perrette has always maintained a sense of humility. Initially pursuing a career in psychology and criminal science with aspirations of joining the FBI, she found herself in the acting world almost by accident. A close source revealed, “She never expected to become a famous actress. She felt uncomfortable being around the entitlement of Hollywood, but the money gave her a lot of freedom, so she kept going back.”
Perrette’s departure from *NCIS* was not without its challenges. In 2017, she announced her exit, citing “multiple physical assaults” on the show’s set as a significant factor in her decision. She later accused Harmon of being a central reason for her exit, expressing her fear of returning to the set. In a social media post, she stated, “NO I AM NOT COMING BACK! EVER! (Please stop asking?) I am terrified of Harmon and him attacking me.” The allegations prompted CBS to issue a statement acknowledging Perrette’s concerns and affirming their commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
Since her retirement, Perrette has found fulfillment in producing documentaries, including *Red Ribbons of Love* and *Studio One Forever*. She has also become an advocate for social issues, using her platform to raise awareness and support various causes. “Going back to being an actor would be taking away from this life of true authenticity that I’m living 100 percent of the time,” she explained in her 2024 interview.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Perrette has faced personal challenges, including a significant health scare. In 2022, she revealed that she had suffered a stroke the previous year, an experience that prompted her to reflect on her life and express gratitude for her survival. “I’m still here, and I’m still grateful,” she shared on social media, highlighting her resilience and positive outlook despite the difficulties she has faced.
Perrette’s last public appearance was in October 2024, where she attended a screening of *Studio One Forever* in West Hollywood. Although she has largely stepped away from the public eye, she continues to engage with her fans through social media, sharing glimpses of her life, including her love for gardening and her foster dog.
As she navigates this new phase of her life, Perrette remains committed to her values of authenticity and compassion. A close friend remarked, “She has a huge heart and is deeply affected by injustice: to people, to animals, to the environment. She’ll be a philanthropist and activist for as long as she’s still breathing.”
In conclusion, Pauley Perrette’s journey after *NCIS* reflects her desire for authenticity and her commitment to making a difference in the world. While she may have left Hollywood behind, her impact continues through her advocacy and the meaningful work she produces. Fans of the beloved actress can take comfort in knowing that she is living a life true to herself, focused on what matters most to her.