The CBS legal drama Bull captivated audiences with its unique focus on jury psychology rather than typical courtroom proceedings. Leading the charge was Dr. Jason Bull, portrayed by Michael Weatherly, who utilized his psychological expertise to influence jury decisions. His Trial Analysis Corporation (TAC) boasted a team of specialists, including the brilliant hacker Cable McCrory, played by Annabelle Attanasio. However, fans were surprised when Cable abruptly exited the show, leaving many to wonder: why did Cable leave Bull?
Cable McCrory was a vital character in the first two seasons of Bull. Her bold personality and sharp wit brought a unique dynamic to the TAC team. Consequently, her unexpected and off-screen death in season 3 was a significant loss for both the characters within the show and the dedicated viewers. While Cable’s departure was undeniably impactful, the reason behind Annabelle Attanasio’s exit is straightforward and tied to her career aspirations.
Cable’s Departure in Bull: An Off-Screen Tragedy
In the season 3 premiere of Bull, titled “The Ground Beneath Their Feet,” the TAC team faces a devastating event: the sudden death of Cable McCrory in a bridge collapse. This tragedy occurs shortly after Dr. Bull’s return to work following a health scare in the season 2 finale, amplifying the emotional impact. Cable’s absence is initially noted at work, followed by the shocking news of her passing, creating a dramatic and suspenseful reveal. Episode 4 of season 3, “Justice for Cable,” reveals the bridge collapse was a terrorist act. The TAC team, led by Bull, channels their grief into action, ultimately bringing down the financial institution that funded the terrorists, providing a form of closure for Cable’s untimely demise.
Despite the on-screen drama surrounding Cable’s exit, the real-life reason for Annabelle Attanasio’s departure from Bull was not rooted in behind-the-scenes conflicts. Annabelle Attanasio chose to leave Bull to pursue her passion for directing, marking a significant shift in her career focus. This decision meant she would not return for Bull season 3 and beyond.
In a public statement released by CBS in 2018 (reported by Deadline), Attanasio explained her departure:
“I’m excited to share that I have been given the opportunity to direct my first feature film, a story I’ve been shepherding for four years. Sadly, the film conflicts with my role as Cable on “Bull.” CBS and the show’s producers have graciously allowed me to leave the series so I can pursue this extraordinary opportunity. While I will miss Cable dearly, I am so thrilled about this new chapter in my career, and am forever grateful to the show for supporting me on my creative journey. I loved my time on the show, and feel so lucky to have the support of the show’s producers, CBS, and most of all, my unbelievable castmates.”
It is also noteworthy that filmmaking runs in Attanasio’s family. Her father, Paul Attanasio, is a respected screenwriter with two Oscar nominations for his work on Quiz Show and Donnie Brasco. He is also the co-creator of Bull, alongside Dr. Phil McGraw.
Annabelle Attanasio’s Directing Career Takes Center Stage
From Bull to the Director’s Chair: Mickey and the Bear
Camila Morrone in the foreground and James Badge Dale in the background of the Mickey and the Bear poster
In the same year that Bull season 3 premiered and addressed Cable’s absence, Annabelle Attanasio debuted her first feature film as a director: the independent drama Mickey and the Bear, released in 2019. Attanasio not only directed but also penned the screenplay for the movie. Mickey and the Bear tells the poignant story of Mickey Peck (played by Camila Morrone of Daisy Jones & the Six fame), a high school student burdened with the responsibility of caring for her veteran father, Hank (James Badge Dale), who struggles with personal challenges. The film premiered at the prestigious South by Southwest Film Festival and garnered significant critical acclaim, achieving a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics lauded both the powerful performances of the cast and Attanasio’s promising directorial talent.
Mickey and the Bear received recognition on the film festival circuit, winning awards such as Best Narrative Feature at the New Hampshire Film Festival and the Independent Film Festival of Boston. Attanasio herself was honored with the Adrienne Shelley Excellence In Filmmaking Award at the Nantucket Film Festival. Despite the critical success, Mickey and the Bear unfortunately did not reach a wider mainstream audience beyond film festivals. While there have been no announcements regarding Attanasio’s next feature film project yet, the positive reception of Mickey and the Bear strongly suggests that the former Bull actress has a promising and successful career ahead of her as a director.
In conclusion, Cable McCrory’s departure from Bull, while dramatic on screen, was driven by Annabelle Attanasio’s personal career choice to step behind the camera and pursue directing. Her directorial debut with Mickey and the Bear has demonstrated her talent and potential in this new role, signaling an exciting new chapter in her career. For fans wondering, “Why Did Cable Leave Bull?”, the answer is clear: Annabelle Attanasio followed her passion and embarked on a successful journey as a filmmaker.
