After years of speculation, NCIS star Pauley Perrette has finally opened up about her complicated relationship with co-star Mark Harmon. Fans of the long-running crime drama were left puzzled when Perrette abruptly left the show in 2018, especially given her popularity as forensic scientist Abby Sciuto. Rumors quickly spread that tensions on set, particularly with Harmon, played a key role in her departure.

In a candid interview, Perrette confirmed what many had suspected: there was a significant rift between her and Harmon stemming from an incident involving his dog. According to Perrette, Harmon’s dog bit a crew member, causing serious injuries. When concerns were raised about safety on set, Perrette says she felt dismissed and unheard. Her discomfort eventually grew into a working environment she could no longer tolerate.

Perrette emphasized that her decision to leave NCIS wasn’t taken lightly. She avoided naming Harmon directly at first, but her statements made it clear that their dynamic had become irreparable. “I just want to protect my crew, my friends, and myself,” she stated in a past tweet.

Though Harmon has remained largely silent on the matter, Perrette’s comments shed light on a long-suspected behind-the-scenes conflict, giving fans closure on why Abby’s iconic presence disappeared from the show.