HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Melina Kanakaredes is leaving 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 43-year-old actress, who starred as detective Stella Bonasera, said Monday in a statement.
Kanakaredes reportedly left the CBS show after being offered a new contract.
"We hoped Melina would return to CSI: NY for another season, but we respect her decision to move on," said CBS Television Network and CBS Television Studios in a joint 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."
Entertainment Weekly reporter Michael Ausiello says Sela Ward is currently in talks to replace Kanakaredes.
CSI: NY is shifting to Friday nights this fall.
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