A supporting character can often become the face of the show, sometimes even overshadowing the main star. In the case of the long-running CBS series NCIS, Pauley Perrette’s portrayal of Abby Sciuto quickly captured the hearts of fans. However, it’s important to note that Pauley Perrette departed from the series in 2018, and her return is unlikely in the near future. In the end we will talk about the estimated net worth of Pauley Perrette.
Pauley Perrette’ Portrayal of Abby Sciuto Left A Lasting Impact Beyond NCIS
Pauley Perrette’ portrayal of Abby Sciuto stands out as one of the original characters in NCIS, debuting alongside beloved figures like Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon), Anthony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly), and Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard (Late David McCallum) during a two-part backdoor pilot in the eighth season of JAG.
From her very first appearance, Abby Sciuto became an essential member of the team, bringing unmatched expertise and skills that were crucial for cracking cases, along with a vibrant spirit and charm that fostered camaraderie among the team.
Unlike her colleagues, who sported polished hairstyles and formal attire, her unique style created a delightful contrast that contributed to NCIS’ success and solidified Sciuto’ status as a fan favorite, both on-screen and off.
The character defies expectations in many ways. Dressed in goth attire, with pigtails and numerous tattoos, her look contrasts sharply with her impressive qualifications, which include multiple degrees in forensics, criminology, and psychology, all fueled by a strong affinity for caffeine.
Yet, under Perrette’s portrayal, this unique blend becomes cohesive—a vibrant contradiction wrapped in a genuinely warm and approachable demeanor. Her distinctive traits only served to deepen her connection with fans, inspiring young girls to pursue degrees in math and science.
Abby Sciuto became more than just a character on NCIS. She became a cultural icon, instantly recognized by many, even those who had never tuned in to the show. Such widespread recognition is a coveted asset for networks, yet it didn’t prevent Pauley Perrette from departing the series after Season 15.
What Prompted Pauley Perrette To Depart From NCIS ?
In her final appearance on the show, Abby Sciuto made a heartfelt exit from NCIS HQ following an assassination attempt, saying goodbye to her colleagues with tears in her eyes.
However, a significant moment during this farewell highlights the reasons behind Pauley Perrette’s decision to depart. In this episode, she shares the screen with nearly all the characters except for Mark Harmon’s Jethro Gibbs, who receives a letter from Sciuto.
Abby observes from the street as he reads it, a poignant scene that reflects the off-screen tensions between the two actors that influenced Perrette’s choice to leave. Reports indicate that their relationship soured in 2016 after an incident involving Harmon’s dog, which bit a crew member, resulting in 15 stitches.
After the broadcast, Pauley Perrette made a vague reference to the incident on Twitter, stating, “I chose not to stoop to their level, which is why I’ve never publicly shared what occurred.”
She criticized tabloids for spreading falsehoods and urged those who believed the rumors to reconsider. In subsequent tweets, Pauley Perrette expressed her internal conflict about whether to reveal the truth to protect her crew, concluding with a powerful message : “Multiple Physical Assaults. I REALLY understand now. Prioritize your safety. Nothing is worth compromising that. Speak up.”
Then, in 2019, she addressed confused and concerned fans about her potential return to the series with more clarity, stating : “No I am not coming back ever ! Please stop asking ? I am terrified of Harmon and him attacking me. I have nightmares about it. I have a new show that is Safe and Happy ! You’ll love it ! Happy Place Love y’all !”
The sitcom, Broke, showcased Pauley Perrette as a suburban single mother whose life is dramatically disrupted when her estranged sister and her husband arrive at her home, seeking shelter due to their financial struggles.
Although Pauley Perrette expressed that this was her favorite project, CBS canceled the show in May 2020 after just one season. Two months later, she announced her retirement from acting, joyfully stating, “I’m Happily Retired ! Finally ! Woot ! All I ever wanted !”
Following her retirement, she shifted her focus to documentary filmmaking and has firmly stated that she will not return to the series that made her famous.
While NCIS has continued to thrive on CBS since her departure, it has struggled to fill the void left by Pauley Perrette’ beloved character, Abby Sciuto. With Mark Harmon also leaving the show, it seems unlikely that she will ever reprise her role.
Pauley Perrette Biography
Pauley Perrette is an American actress and singer. She played Abby Sciuto in the television series NCIS from 2003 to 2018. She also played this same role in the TV Series JAG (1995), NCIS – Los Angeles (2009), and NCIS New Orleans (2014) respectively.
Pauley Perrette Age & Date of Birth
Pauley Perrette was born on 27th March 1969, in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States. Currently, she is 56 years old.
Pauley Perrette Parents & Sibling
Pauley Perrette’s father Paul Perrette died on 20th January 2021 due to Covid 19. Her mother’s name is Donna Bell. She has one sister named Kathy Griffin.
Pauley Perrette Nationality, Religion & Ethnicity
Pauley is a Christian by religion with American Nationality. Her ethnicity is mixed. She is of Scottish/Irish/Welsh/German/British descent.
Pauley Perrette Education
Pauley completed her school life at Crestwood High School. She graduated from Valdosta State University. She completed her legal studies at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York.
Pauley Perrette Profession & Career
Pauley Perrette debuted in Hollywood with the movie The Price of Kissing in 1997. Her Television debut came 3 years ago in 1994 with the TV series ABC Afterschool Specials. She becomes popular with the role of Abby Sciuto in the TV Series NCIS. Her last TV Series Broke released in 2020. So far she has been part of 53 Hollywood flicks including TV Series to date.
Pauley Perrette Movies & TV Shows
| Year | Movies / TV Series |
| 1994 | ABC Afterschool Specials (TV Series) |
| 1996 | Moloney (TV Series) |
| 1996 | Murder One (TV Series) |
| 1996 | Frasier (TV Series) |
| 1997 | Early Edition (TV Series) |
| 1997 | The Price of Kissing |
| 1998 | The N**** Truth (TV Series) |
| 1998 | The Drew Carey Show (TV Series) |
| 1998 | Hand on the Pump |
| 1998 | Hoofboy |
| 1998 | That’s Life (TV Series) |
| 1999 | Batman Beyond (TV Series) |
| 1999 | Jesse (TV Series) |
| 1999 | Veronica’s Closet (TV Series) |
| 1999 | Time of Your Life (TV Series) |
| 2000 | Civility |
| 2000 | Almost Famous |
| 2001 | My First Mister |
| 2001 | Dead Last (TV Series) |
| 2001 | Philly (TV Series) |
| 2001 | Dawson’s Creek (TV Series) |
| 2001 | Smash (TV Series) |
| 2001 | Special Unit 2 (TV Series) |
| 2002 | 24 (TV Series) |
| 2002 | Red Skies |
| 2002 | The Ring |
| 2002 | Hungry Hearts |
| 2002 | Haunted (TV Series) |
| 2003 | CSI – Crime Scene Investigation (TV Series) |
| 2003 | JAG (TV Series) |
| 2003 | Ash Tuesday |
| 2003 | Brother Bear |
| 2003 | NCIS (TV Series) |
| 2004 | Cut and Run |
| 2004 | A Moment of Grace |
| 2006 | Potheads – The Movie |
| 2009 | To Comfort You |
| 2009 | NCIS – Los Angeles (TV Series) |
| 2010 | The Singularity Is Near |
| 2010 | Satan Hates You |
| 2010 | FCU – Fact Checkers Unit (TV Series) |
| 2011 | Pride |
| 2012 | Terminator – Termination |
| 2012 | I Am Bad |
| 2012 | Inside NCIS (TV Mini Series) |
| 2014 | NCIS New Orleans (TV Series) |
| 2016 | Fantasy Hospital (TV Series) |
| 2017 | When We Rise (TV Mini Series) |
| 2020 | Broke (TV Series) |
Pauley Perrette Awards
Pauley Perrette is always a talented actress. She has won 2 Awards so far.
In 2010, she jointly won the Best Female Performance (Short Film Drama) for the short movie To Comfort You at Beverly Hills Film Festival along with Susan Blakely.
In 2023, she won the Best Shorts Award (Award of Excellence) for Red Ribbons of Love.
Pauley Perrette Net Worth 2025
Pauley is in the Hollywood industry for the last 30 years or more. One can expect a big income from her. She earns 200K US Dollars per episode. She is one of the richest actresses in the NCIS Series. The estimated net worth of Pauley Perrette is around 25 Million US Dollars.
Pauley Perrette Height, Weight & Body Measurements
Pauley Perrette is 5 feet 10 inches tall. Her height is 1.78 meters. She weighs around 62 Kg (137 Pounds). Her hair color is black (straight bangs) with dark blue eyes. She has a curvy body with measurements of 35-28-31 inches.
Pauley Perrette Weight Loss, Health & Fitness
Pauley Perrette has gained 4 kg weight during the last month. She is doing occasional workouts to remain fit and healthy. So far her health is not all right. She had a stroke in 2021.