Melina Kanakaredes is leaving the CBS drama series "CSI: NY" after six seasons.
"I made some amazing and lifelong friendships during my six seasons on 'CSI: NY' and I will treasure them forever," the actress said in a statement.
A joint statement from CBS Television Network and CBS Television Studios read: "We hoped Melina would return to 'CSI: NY' for another season, but we respect her decision to move on. 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."
Production on the seventh season begins on July 28. It was not immediately known if Kanakarades will be replaced in the ensemble cast.
The series, produced by CBS Television Studios in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Productions, is moving to Friday nights at 9 this fall; it had aired at 10 p.m. on Wednesdays.
