From unsuccessful contract talks to creative decisions and on-set issues, Rome Flynn, Stana Katic, Daniel Dae Kim and more performers have been forced to wave farewell. Here’s what happened behind the scenes.
.Rome Flynn
The departure of Rome Flynn from the Chicago Fire Department was announced in April 2024. After joining the hit procedural drama for six episodes, the actor was “sad” to learn that his character had been written out of season 12, with Jake Gibson leaving to get help for a prescription pill addiction. Rome told Variety that he was sad to see Gibson leave the show, as were all the fans. “He’s been a character I’ve been very fond of playing.”
.Stana Katic
Stana Katic gained notoriety and affection for her role as ABC’s Castle investigator Kate Beckett; yet, the actress was abruptly fired from the series after eight seasons. Stana was “hurt” when she didn’t receive a contract offer for series nine, unlike her co-star Nathan Fillion. Stana was able to finish the series, saying goodbye to Kate Beckett in the season eight finale, but a month later, Castle was completely terminated. Stana told News Corp. after reviewing the events of 2020, “I was confused by the entire experience.” I felt wounded.
However, time has gone by, and I am incredibly grateful to have contributed to the project and for it to have had such a positive impact on so many others. People adored that pair, the tale we told, and each and every one of those characters. If I looked back on it and felt anything except gratitude for the incredible run, that would be a disrespect to the work I did, which I believe contributed to the show’s success.”
.Daniel Dae Kim
After failing to reach a deal, Daniel Dae Kim announced his resignation from Hawaii Five-0 in 2017. The actor, who portrayed Chin Ho Kelly for seven years, was unable to secure salary parity with other actors Scott Caan and Alex O’Loughlin, as well as with his co-star Grace Park. Daniel posted an explanation to his Facebook supporters, saying, “Even though changes can be challenging, I urge everyone to see past the present disappointment and consider the greater picture.” Rarely is the road to equality simple. However, I hope you will be eager for what is ahead. I am.”
.Henry Cavill
Although fans have praised Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt of Rivia, he stated in October 2022 that Liam Hemsworth will take over for him in season four. Fans conjectured that Henry had to pick between the two roles, giving the DC superhero priority, after it was revealed earlier in the week that he will be returning as Superman. But the A-lister was naturally disappointed to learn that James Gunn, the new co-CEO of DC Studios, would be revamping Superman rather than bringing Henry back.
Christopher Meloni
After 12 seasons, Christopher Meloni, a mainstay on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, said goodbye. In retrospect, Christopher told Men’s Health that he told NBC, “I don’t want to [expletive] around with you guys,” since he was dissatisfied with his pay at the time of his departure in 2011. I want this. It’s okay if you’re not able to do it. Together, let’s plan my escape.”
.Janet Hubert
In The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Janet Hubert portrayed the first Vivian Banks. However, after turning down a “bad deal,” the actress felt “banished” by Will Smith, her co-star. Janet explained that she had made the decision to quit and had not been fired, as had been reported by the media, during her appearance on the sitcom’s 30-year reunion special. “Something I would like to clarify is, during that third season, when I got pregnant, there were a lot of things going on in my life, and in Will’s life as well,” she said.
.Eccleston Christopher
British performer After receiving a ton of accolades for his portrayal of Doctor Who, Christopher Eccleston relinquished his role as the show’s main Time Lord in 2005. The actor, who was quite outspoken about his choice to go, disclosed in 2019 that he had disagreements with executive producers Julie Gardner and Phil Collinson as well as showrunner Russell T. Davies.
