Instead of staying on television series for multiple seasons like most actors, these 10 individuals chose to abandon their respective TV shows after only one season. These key actors played major roles in their shows, and their sudden departure came as a huge surprise to audiences who had become emotionally invested in these characters. Each show dealt with the departure of these actors in a unique way, and the reasons behind their exit were quite interesting.
The departure of main actors is often seen as a warning sign for TV shows, as many series such as The Office, Glee, and Scrubs experienced a decline in quality after losing their main characters. However, such instances typically occur after a few seasons, allowing the show to develop supporting characters who can help fill the void. On the other hand, when an actor leaves after just one season, it poses a more challenging situation. This abrupt change behind the scenes can completely disrupt the series, often requiring the show to rewrite storylines and arcs in order to adapt. While it is rare for actors to leave after just one season, these examples demonstrate the significant impact it can have on a TV show.
10 Christopher Eccleston In Doctor Who
Christopher Eccleston portrayed the Ninth Doctor in the enduring sci-fi series Doctor Who, featuring in a total of 13 episodes. Surprisingly, after the first series, Eccleston opted not to reprise his role—a decision that diverged from the usual pattern of actors staying on for a significant duration. The BBC stated that Eccleston's departure was driven by his apprehension about being typecast. However, Eccleston himself contradicted this explanation, asserting that he left due to an unfavorable work environment. While fans of Doctor Who were disheartened by Eccleston's exit, they found solace in the introduction of the adored Tenth Doctor, portrayed by David Tennant.
9 Ruby Rose In Batwoman
Ruby Rose, the star of CW's Batwoman in season 1, portrayed the iconic superhero throughout the show's initial episodes. However, she decided to depart from Batwoman after season 1 due to several reasons. After experiencing an on-set injury, Rose underwent spinal surgery, which resulted in her reducing her involvement in stunts for the show. In addition to this, she voiced allegations of sexual harassment and unsafe working conditions, which Warner Bros. has denied. Moreover, Rose's latex allergy and the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic played a role in her departure, leading to her being replaced by Javicia Leslie in season 2.
8 Bailey Bass In Interview With The Vampire
Bailey Bass was a prominent actress during season 1 of AMC's Interview with the Vampire, but she chose to depart from the series after that season. In season 2 of Interview with the Vampire, Delainey Hayles will take on the role of Claudia, previously portrayed by Bass. The reasons behind Bass's departure have only been attributed to "unforeseen circumstances," potentially hinting at the possibility of further revelations in the future.
7 Regé-Jean Page In Bridgerton
Renowned for his captivating portrayal of Simon Basset in the first season of Bridgerton, Regé-Jean Page quickly became a fan-favorite. However, to everyone's surprise, Page opted not to continue his journey with the show after the initial season, expressing his desire to explore new ventures. Despite his burgeoning success post-Bridgerton, which includes roles in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves and being linked to potential James Bond casting, fans of the series still long for his presence on-screen.
6 Xochitl Gomez In The Baby-Sitters Club
Xochitl Gomez portrayed Dawn Schafer in the first season of Netflix's The Baby-Sitters Club, but she decided to depart from the show shortly after her debut. Instead of returning for season 2 of The Baby-Sitters Club, Gomez opted to portray the character America Chavez in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. As a result, she left the series. During season 2, Kyndra Sanchez took over the role, but unfortunately, Netflix ended up canceling The Baby-Sitters Club after its second season.
5 Ross Butler In Riverdale
Ross Butler portrayed Reggie Mantle in the first season of the hit CW series, Riverdale. However, due to conflicting schedules between Riverdale and 13 Reasons Why, Butler had to make a tough decision. Ultimately, he chose to leave Riverdale and join the cast of 13 Reasons Why as Zach Dempsey. Charles Melton took over the role of Reggie Mantle in the show's second season. In season 3 of Riverdale, Reggie Mantle became a regular character on the series.
4 Andy Samberg in Cuckoo
3 Denise Crosby In Star Trek: The Next Generation
Andy Samberg, the star of the 2012 British comedy Cuckoo, portrayed the titular character in the first season. However, he decided not to return for the subsequent seasons due to his busy schedule. In Samberg's absence, Taylor Lautner took over the leading role as Cuckoo's son. Despite Samberg's departure, the show continued for four more seasons until ultimately concluding after season 5.
Known for her presence in Hollywood, Denise Crosby is often recognized for her brief stint as Lieutenant Natasha Yar in the first season of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Yar played a significant role throughout the season; however, Crosby decided to depart before its conclusion due to her dissatisfaction with the working conditions. She expressed disappointment in the limited character development her role received. Despite parting ways with Star Trek: The Next Generation, Crosby has made subsequent appearances in various other projects. Nonetheless, her time as Natasha Yar came to an end after season 1.
2 Nick Jonas In Last Man Standing
1 Parker Bagley In Pretty Little Liars
Nick Jonas, the musician and actor, portrayed the character of Ryan Vogelson, Kristin's former boyfriend, in the first season of Tim Allen's sitcom Last Man Standing. However, Jonas decided to depart from the show after season 1 due to the increased prominence of Ryan's role in season 2 and his tight schedule, which made it impossible for him to continue. As a result, the role of Ryan was recast, with actor Jordan Masterson taking over the character in the subsequent seasons.
Parker Bagley portrayed the character of Jason DiLaurentis in the first season of Pretty Little Liars, where he played a significant role as Alison DiLaurentis' older half-brother. Bagley's portrayal in the initial season received positive feedback. However, due to certain discrepancies in his appearance, he was replaced in the second season. The creators of Pretty Little Liars sought an actor who better matched the description of Jason found in the books, leading to the recasting of the role. Drew Van Acker then took over the character of Jason for the remainder of the series, becoming more prominently associated with this beloved television show.
