Sasha Alexander’s departure from NCIS after just two seasons left fans stunned, especially since her character, Caitlin “Kate” Todd, was a central part of the team. Many speculated on behind-the-scenes drama, but the real reason for her exit was much simpler—and it may shock fans who weren’t aware.

Alexander left NCIS due to the intense demands of the show. Filming a network procedural involves grueling hours, sometimes exceeding 20-hour days, and she found the workload overwhelming. In past interviews, she’s admitted that the physical and emotional toll of the role was too much to sustain long-term. While she loved the cast and crew, she made the difficult decision to step away for her well-being.

Despite her departure, Alexander’s career thrived. She went on to star in Rizzoli & Isles and other successful projects. Though Kate Todd’s shocking on-screen death was heartbreaking, her legacy lives on in NCIS history. Ultimately, Sasha Alexander’s exit was a reminder that even in Hollywood, knowing when to prioritize personal health is just as important as landing a big role.