NCIS executive producer Mark Horowitz revealed that there was an alternative ending in mind for the departure of Agent Kate Todd, played by Sasha Alexander. In the show's early years, the producers had to keep the secret of Todd's exit from the audience. Horowitz explained that they printed only one page of the script showing her getting shot, and they also shot an alternate ending. Actress Sasha Alexander has since appeared in various onscreen roles after leaving NCIS.