NCIS: Why did Jennifer Esposito really leave NCIS?

Alexandra Quinn (played by Jennifer Esposito) quickly became a fan favourite among CBS viewers when she first appeared in NCIS. Introduced as new NCIS Special Agent following her departure from FLETC (Federal Law Enforcement Training Centre), Alexandra quickly cemented her place in the Major Case Response Team alongside Leroy Gibbs (Mark Harmon) in every episode of season 14. However, she wasn’t seen in the cast beyond the season and actress Esposito has explained why.

Why did Jennifer Esposito really leave NCIS?

Speculation was rife when it was confirmed Esposito wouldn’t be back to play Alex in season 15.

With the character appearing as a series regular in all 24 season 14 episodes, NCIS viewers had become accustomed to seeing her on the drama.

Therefore, many were keen to find out why and a whole host of rumours started, including one that suggested Esposito was suffering from an illness.

However, the actress took to Twitter before season 15’s premiere to reveal exactly why she departed.

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In a tweet dated back to June 10, 2017, Esposito said: “No, I am not ill,

“But I so appreciate your concern. Was not meant to be there long but happy I was.”

The NCIS star added: “Met some great new friends! Love 2 u (sic) all.”

She also issued a statement to Deadline when news of her exit broke.

The NCIS star said: “It was a great experience, I could not have asked for a better opportunity than to work with the NCIS cast and producers.”

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Another reason believed to be behind Esposito’s exit was down to a change inc creative direction by the writers.

Alex Quinn was created and brought to life thanks to showrunner Gary Glasberg.

However, before season 15, Glasberg tragically died and the writing duties were passed over.

As such, Alex was written out of the show at the end of season 14.

Her on-screen exit came after a cliffhanger at the end of the series following phone calls from her ill mother.

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Since leaving NCIS, Esposito has gone on to achieve success elsewhere.

She continued her role on NBC drama Blindspot as well as landing a role opposite Vikings star Kathryn Winnick and Oscar-nominee John Travolta in Speed Kills.

In 2019, Esposito landed a recurring role in Amazon Prime series The Boys.

Starring alongside Star Trek star Keith Urban and House of Cards’ Dominique McElligott, she played Susan Raynor.

NCIS season 17 continues on CBS every Tuesday.

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