The early departure of Sasha Alexander's character, Kate, from NCIS was a strategic move to increase the stakes and surprise viewers. Alexander wanted a lighter workload, so co-creator Donald P. Bellisario suggested killing her character off. This decision set a precedent for future character exits on the show. Shooting for NCIS is demanding, often lasting 10 months or more with long filming hours. Kate's death not only provided Alexander with the opportunity to star in another show, but also heightened the tension and unpredictability of the series.