Sasha Alexander’s sudden departure from NCIS after just two seasons shocked fans. As Special Agent Caitlin “Kate” Todd, she played a crucial role in the show’s early success. However, her exit was not a creative decision—it was personal.
Alexander later revealed that the intense filming schedule of NCIS was overwhelming. Unlike traditional TV dramas, procedural shows require long hours, often shooting for 10 months a year. The demanding workload took a toll on her, and she felt she couldn’t keep up with the pace. Ultimately, she made the difficult choice to leave for the sake of her well-being.
Her exit led to one of the most shocking moments in NCIS history—Kate Todd’s tragic assassination in the season 2 finale. While fans were heartbroken, Alexander found success elsewhere, starring in Rizzoli & Isles and other projects. Despite her departure, she remains grateful for her time on NCIS and the impact her character had on fans.