CSI: New York, the second spinoff in the immensely popular CSI franchise, differentiated itself by showcasing grittier stories and a star-studded cast. Premiering in 2004, the show revolves around detectives in New York City who employ advanced scientific methods to solve high-profile cases. In contrast to the sun-soaked settings of its predecessors, the urban backdrop of New York City set a distinct tone for the series, emphasized by a series of violent and unsettling cases that underscored its procedural nature. Like its predecessors, CSI: New York maintained a brisk and thrilling pace that captivated audiences every season.
What set CSI: New York apart was its ability to allow the cast to shine, infusing the series with compelling character-driven storylines alongside the action. During the aughts, a period saturated with crime drama shows, CSI: New York emerged as a standout due to its exceptional ensemble. While all the CSI series featured notable actors, CSI: New York boasted a group of seasoned performers who brought credibility to the procedural aspects while delivering gripping character drama.
Gary Sinise As Mac Taylor
Veteran character actor Gary Sinise stars in CSI: New York as Detective Mac Taylor, the tough director of the NYPD crime lab whose no-nonsense approach keeps his fellow detectives in line. Sinise gained recognition for his Oscar-nominated portrayal of the disillusioned Lieutenant Dan Taylor in the film Forrest Gump, directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Tom Hanks. Additionally, he showcased his talent as George Milton in the adaptation of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men. Sinise also made a memorable appearance as Ken Mattingly in the iconic space film Apollo 13 and displayed his versatility by portraying the villainous Detective Jimmy Shaker in Ransom.
Melina Kanakaredes As Stella Bonasera
In the hit series CSI: New York, Stella Bonasera is Mac's fiery and impulsive partner, constantly clashing with his methodical approach. Portrayed by the talented Melina Kanakaredes, who gained fame as the goddess Athena in Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief. Kanakaredes also captivated audiences as Dr. Sydney Hansen in Providence and made a notable appearance as Nicolette Karas in the thriller 15 Minutes. Additionally, she showcased her acting prowess alongside Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in the action-packed film Snitch, playing the character Sylvie Collins.
Carmine Giovinazzo As Danny Messer
Carmine Giovinazzo portrays the character of Danny Messer, a detective with a troubled family background, who aspires to utilize his own complex code of ethics to lead the NYPD crime lab. Having an extensive presence in both television and movies, Giovinazzo rose to prominence with his role as SGT Mike Goodale in the ensemble of Black Hawk Down. Additionally, he portrayed Ken Strout in the sports film For Love of the Game. Giovinazzo's portrayal of Ken Pierce in the gripping thriller Breaking, based on a true story, highlighted his talent. Furthermore, he captivated audiences with his recurring character Nick Gatchi in the original series High Desert, produced by Apple TV Plus.
Vanessa Ferlito As Aiden Burn
Known for her street smarts and relentless determination, Detective 3rd Grade Aiden Burn has made a name for herself in Brooklyn as a skilled investigator. Portrayed by Vanessa Ferlito in CSI: New York, Ferlito is most recognized for her captivating performance as Arlene in Quentin Tarantino's thrilling slasher film Death Proof. Additionally, she showcased her talent as Audrey in the highly anticipated sequel Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps, and brought the character Cassie to life in Julie & Julia. Following her success on CSI: New York, Ferlito took on the prominent role of Tammy Gregorio in the long-standing procedural series NCIS: New Orleans.
Hill Harper As Dr. Sheldon Hawkes
Hill Harper stars in CSI: New York as Dr. Sheldon Hawkes, the medical examiner of the NYPD crime lab. Throughout the series, he transitions into the field to assist in solving more significant cases. Although Harper is primarily recognized for his previous roles like Will Beckford in The Skulls and Coleman "Booger" Sykes in He Got Game, he also garnered praise for his portrayal of Calder Michaels in the show Covert Affairs. Additionally, Harper made appearances as Rob Emmons on the Showtime series Homeland and portrayed Dr. Marcus Andrew on the ABC medical drama The Good Doctor.
Eddie Cahill As Don Flack
In CSI: New York, Detective Don Flack, portrayed by Eddie Cahill, is portrayed as a determined investigator who collaborates closely with the NYPD crime lab, despite not being certified as a CSI. Cahill gained recognition for his breakthrough performance as Jim Craig in the critically acclaimed hockey film, Miracle. Additionally, he appeared as Larry Gordon in the iconic skateboarding movie Lords of Dogtown. Notably, Cahill also assumed the role of Conner Wallace in the short-lived ABC procedural Conviction, and he had a recurring part as Sam Verdreux in the television adaptation of Stephen King's Under the Dome.
Anna Belknap As Lindsay Messer
A native of Bozeman, Montana, Lindsay Messer is a talented detective with the NYPD. Her uncanny insight and unconventional wisdom play a crucial role in helping the team solve complex cases. Anna Belknap portrayed Messer in the popular series CSI: New York, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Belknap has also made notable appearances as Eva Rossi on Medical Investigation and as Chase in the thrilling newspaper-centric series Deadline. With a strong presence in procedural shows, she has made memorable guest appearances as Brenda in How to Get Away with Murder and as Cora Denoble in The Good Doctor. Belknap's remarkable talent has led her to portray the character of Dr. Strauss on Chicago Med and she has made two appearances on Law & Order: SVU, portraying the characters Ginny McCann and Sarah Kimmel.
Robert Joy As Dr. Sid Hammerback
Dr. Sid Hammerbeck, a brilliant yet peculiar medical examiner, joins the cast of CSI: New York, utilizing his exceptional intellect to assist the detectives. Renowned for his roles in horror films, Robert Joy has portrayed characters such as Charlie Houx in George Romero's Land of the Dead and Lizard in the remake of The Hills Have Eyes. Notably, Joy also assumed the role of Col. Stevens in Alien vs. Predator: Requiem and showcased his comedic skills as Dr. Stephen Hawking in the parody movie Superhero Movie.
A.J. Buckley As Adam Ross
Adam Ross, a lab technician for the crime lab of the New York City Police Department (NYPD), developed a strong sense of competitiveness due to his profound insecurity. A.J. Buckley portrayed the character of Ross and is also recognized for his role as Ed Zeddmore in the television series Supernatural, as well as Dave in the popular show Entourage. Apart from his on-screen work, Buckley has also made a name for himself as a distinguished voice actor, lending his voice to the character Nash in the Disney Pixar film The Good Dinosaur and Pigeon Pete in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Additionally, he plays the recurring role of Sonny Quinn in the action-packed CBS series SEAL Team.
Sela Ward As Jo Danville
Jo Danville, portrayed by Sela Ward in CSI: New York, assumes the role of Assistant Supervisor in the NYPD crime lab after taking over from Stella Bonasera. Sela Ward has had a successful career dating back to the 1980s, gaining recognition for her performances as Helen Kimble in The Fugitive and Sharon Schieber in Gone Girl. In addition, Ward has also portrayed Jeannie Miller in Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights and portrayed President Elizabeth Lanford in the science fiction action film Independence Day: Resurgence.