Melina Kanakaredes Leaves ‘CSI: NY’

Melina Kanakaredes is said to be leaving the long-running CBS show CSI: NY after six seasons.

Kanakaredes said, “I made some amazing and lifelong friendships during my six seasons on CSI: NY, and I will treasure them forever.”

The CBS network and studio added their own statement, “We hoped Melina would return to CSI: NY for another season, but we respect her decision to move on. 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.”

A source revealed that Kanakaredes was approached with a new deal with CBS but decided to move on with her career instead. Her last episode filmed with CSI: NY has already aired and Sela Ward is expected to take over the leading-lady role.

This is the fourth replacement in a CBS drama in the past month. A.J. Cook was released from Criminal Minds as was Liz Vassey on CSI and Eddie Cibrian on CSI: Miami.