Why did actress Maria Bello, who played Jack Sloane, leave NCIS?
ACTRESS Maria Bello, who played Jack Sloane in the CBS hit series NCIS, appeared in her last episode on the franchise on March 2.
Bello departed NCIS after playing Special Agent Jacqueline "Jack" Sloane for three years since she first joined the cast in 2017.
Why is actress Maria Bello leaving NCIS?
In July 2020, reports surfaced that Bello would soon be walking away from her character after her three-year contract with the CBS crime drama had expired.
Throughout the first half of season 18, fans watch how Sloane will slowly be removed from the show.
In the episode titled The First Day, fans saw the forensic psychologist tell Gibbs that she intends to move on from NCSI and perhaps relocate to Costa Rica.
Bello's departure appears to be a simple change of scenery, as she's ready to move on to other projects.
According to her IMDB profile, Bello will be a producer and writer on the upcoming drama The Women King starring Viola Davis.
What did Bello say about her NCIS departure?
Bello has not publicly spoken out about her recent NCIS departure, however in December 2020 she confirmed the news that she'll be stepping away from the franchise.
"And that's a wrap for Jack Sloane @ncis_cbs !!! I've learned many things on this journey for the last three and a half years," the actress wrote on an Instagram post.
"I learned about commitment and community. I’ve learned that the woman I am enjoys process over product. I’ve never worked with a kinder, more generous group of people.
"I only had the privilege of standing by Dom’s side during cancer because my producers worked so hard to make sure I was there for every treatment. I made a speech today for our crew.
"Though in our business, like many, there are quite a few assholes - there is not one on the set of NCIS - in front of or behind the camera." Bello added.
"Only a profoundly decent group of people who care more about each other and the world in general than what is in it for them. I understand why this show after 18 years is the most watched in the world - you must all feel our love.
"Keep watching. I have a feeling there will be many more years to come. Thank you to all of my pals at NCIS and to all of our fans. I am truly grateful."
How can I watch NCIS?
NCIS returned on Tuesday, March 2, after the show took a one month break.
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NCIS airs Tuesdays at 8pm on CBS.
Fans can watch Bello's departure from the series by visiting CBS.com.