Another long-running CBS procedural has been rocked by a high-profile departure: Melina Kanakaredes is leaving CSI: NY.
“We hoped Melina would return to CSI: NY for another season, but we respect her decision to move on,” said CBS (network and studio) in a statement. “Her amazing talent and invaluable contribution to the success of the series are greatly appreciated and will not be forgotten. She will forever remain a friend to the network and studio and we wish her the very best.”
In her own statement, Kanakaredes said, “I made some amazing and lifelong friendships during my six seasons on CSI: NY, and I will treasure them forever.”
CBS declined further comment, but a source tells me that Kanakaredes was asked to take a pay cut and she declined. It’s not clear if the actress will return for an episode or two to tie up Stella’s story. My guess is probably not.
This marks the fourth onscreen shake-up at a CBS drama in the past month. As previously reported, A.J. Cook, Liz Vassey and Eddie Cibrian have been released from their roles on Criminal Minds, CSI, and CSI: Miami respectively (although Cook will return briefly this fall to give fans closure).
