Deadline reported Monday afternoon that Melina Kanakaredes has agreed to depart CBS’ “CSI: NY” and will not be part of the show’s upcoming seventh season.
Kanakaredes’ contract had expired after the sixth season, and she opted not to accept a new agreement for the show. Entertainment Weekly speculates that the renewal deal would have called for a paycut from her current contract, which Deadline says paid in the range of $200,000 per episode.
At press time, Sela Ward was believed to be the frontrunner to replace Kanakaredes on the show.
“We hoped Melina would return to CSI: NY for another season, but we respect her decision to move on,” said CBS in a statement. “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.”
The actress commented, “I made some amazing and lifelong friendships during my six seasons on CSI: NY, and I will treasure them forever!”
