One of NCIS’s biggest stars was almost fired, and fans had no idea how close they came to losing a beloved character. Behind the scenes, tensions ran high as network executives debated whether this cast member should be let go, and the reasons behind it may surprise you.

Michael Weatherly, who played the fan-favorite Tony DiNozzo, was reportedly on the chopping block early in the show’s run. Insiders claim that producers weren’t initially convinced he was the right fit for the role. Some executives felt his humor was too over-the-top, and there were concerns about whether he had the chemistry needed to carry the show. Fortunately, Mark Harmon and other key figures fought to keep him, and he quickly became one of NCIS’s most iconic characters.

Another actor who nearly faced the same fate was Pauley Perrette, who played Abby Sciuto. Despite being a fan-favorite, behind-the-scenes conflicts and rumored issues with Mark Harmon led to major tension on set. While she ultimately left on her own terms, it’s been suggested that producers considered letting her go before she made her dramatic exit.

In the end, both actors left NCIS on their own schedules, but it’s shocking to think how different the show could have been if they had been fired early on. Their characters helped define NCIS, proving that sometimes, taking a chance on an actor can lead to TV history.