Maria Bello, a celebrated actress with Golden Globe and Emmy nominations, graced both the big and small screens for over three decades. However, she became particularly beloved for her role as Special Agent Dr. Jacqueline “Jack” Sloane on CBS’s NCIS. Joining the show in Season 15, the 56-year-old actress quickly became an integral part of the investigative team, captivating audiences until her departure in Season 18.
In 2021, after her final episode aired, Maria Bello shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: “And that’s a wrap for Jack Sloane. I’ve learned many things on this journey for the last three and a half years. I learned about commitment and community. I’ve never worked with a kinder, more generous group of people.” This message marked the end of an era for fans of her character, leading many to wonder: Why Did Maria Bello Leave Ncis?
While rumors circulated about potential on-set friction, Maria Bello dispelled these speculations with her warm words for the NCIS team. She also acknowledged the show’s enduring success, stating, “I understand why this show after 18 years is the most watched in the world — keep watching.” So, if it wasn’t due to drama, what prompted her exit from such a successful and long-running series?
Unveiling the Real Reasons Behind Maria Bello’s NCIS Departure
The primary reason for Maria Bello’s departure from NCIS appears to be straightforward: her three-year contract concluded, and she chose not to renew it. This decision allowed her to explore new professional avenues and projects that sparked her interest. It was a natural transition for an actress with a diverse and ambitious career trajectory.
However, personal factors also played a significant role in her choice. Sources revealed that during this period, Maria Bello’s partner was facing a cancer battle. Choosing not to extend her NCIS contract provided Maria with invaluable time to support her family and prioritize her personal life during a challenging time. Thankfully, her partner is now in remission, and Maria’s decision allowed her to be present during those crucial moments.
Life After NCIS: Maria Bello’s Thriving Career
Since leaving NCIS, Maria Bello has strategically chosen projects that showcase her range and passion, both in front of and behind the camera. One of her most notable roles post-NCIS was in Netflix’s critically acclaimed dramedy Beef, a major hit in 2023. In this miniseries, she played Jordan, a wealthy investor entangled in the chaotic feud between characters portrayed by Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. Her performance in Beef was lauded as one of the best of her career, earning her a Primetime Emmy nomination in 2023, proving her continued relevance and talent in the industry.
Beyond acting, Maria Bello has made significant strides behind the camera. She served as a producer and creator for the 2022 historical epic The Woman King, starring Viola Davis. This project was a long-time passion for Bello, stemming from her childhood fascination with African history and her later realization of the underrepresentation of women’s stories in historical narratives. Her dedication to bringing The Woman King to fruition highlights her commitment to impactful storytelling and amplifying women’s voices.
The genesis of The Woman King can be traced back to 2015 when Bello presented Viola Davis with an award. During this encounter, she envisioned Davis as an African warrior, drawing parallels to a female Braveheart. This idea resonated with Davis, leading to their collaboration and the eventual creation of the blockbuster film.
Adding another layer to her multifaceted life, Maria Bello has also established a part-time residence in Nairobi, Kenya. She describes her life there as enriching and fulfilling, immersed in a vibrant culture and community. This global perspective further exemplifies Bello’s adventurous spirit and her willingness to embrace diverse experiences.
A Career Retrospective: From ER to Coyote Ugly and Beyond
Born in Pennsylvania, Maria Bello initially aspired to a career in law, majoring in peace and justice education at Villanova University. However, a serendipitous acting class in her senior year ignited a new passion. She honed her craft in New York theater before transitioning to television, with early appearances in shows like The Commish and ER.
Her role as Dr. Anna Del Amico on ER from 1997 to 1998 marked a turning point, bringing her to wider attention and paving the way for film roles. The year 2000 saw her breakout film role in Coyote Ugly, where she embodied a fearless bartender, solidifying her status as a versatile and compelling actress.
Throughout her career, Maria Bello has garnered critical acclaim, including Golden Globe nominations for The Cooler and A History of Violence, showcasing her ability to excel in both supporting and leading roles across various genres.
Maria Bello’s resilience and willingness to take risks, both personally and professionally, are qualities she attributes to her mother. Her mother’s advice to “jump” when facing a cliff edge has become a guiding principle in Bello’s life, encouraging her to embrace new challenges and opportunities.
Maria Bello’s Journey with Bipolar Disorder
Adding another dimension to her public persona, Maria Bello has openly discussed her experience with bipolar disorder, diagnosed at age 28. She views her condition, when managed with medication, as a source of empathy and deeper understanding of human emotions. Her openness about bipolar disorder helps to destigmatize mental health conditions and encourages dialogue and awareness.
Bello has also channeled her personal experiences into her acting, notably in the horror thriller Lights Out, where she portrayed a mother struggling with depression and delusions. Her willingness to draw from her own life experiences to inform her roles demonstrates her commitment to authentic and nuanced performances. Furthermore, her 2016 memoir, Whatever…Love Is Love: Questioning the Labels We Give Ourselves, delves into her life and perspectives, including her journey with bipolar disorder.
What’s Next for Maria Bello?
In January 2023, Maria Bello signed with the Agency for the Performing Arts, signaling her continued ambition and pursuit of diverse projects, both in front of and behind the camera. Whether she takes on new acting roles or focuses on producing, Maria Bello’s talent, drive, and passion ensure that her future endeavors will be closely watched and eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide. Her departure from NCIS was not an end, but rather a transition into a new chapter filled with exciting possibilities.
