Louis Vartann, played by Alex Carter, came to “CSI” with a richer backstory than most homicide detectives. Carter had already starred in TV shows such as “Side Effects,” “Due South,” and “Black Harbour.” Vartann was previously a detective for the homicide unit of the Las Vegas Police Department so he obviously didn’t need much training.
He had battled alcoholism and managed to become very personally entangled in one of the cases. He eventually became quite close with one of the team leaders and, in season ten, particularly with Catherine Willows. Throughout the show, Detective Vartann appeared in forty-one episodes of “CSI.”
Robert Joy — Now
Robert Joy has undoubtedly carved out a remarkable path in the realm of acting, showcasing his immense talent across a diverse range of projects. His notable accomplishments include captivating performances in renowned films such as "The Hills Have Eyes," "Land of the Dead," and "Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem." He also had a guest appearance in the hit medical drama "Grey's Anatomy."
Embracing his passion for storytelling, Joy recently joined the esteemed cast of the critically-acclaimed film "Don't Look Up," further solidifying his reputation as a respected and sought-after actor. His unwavering commitment to his artistry continues to captivate audiences and cement his place among the industry's finest talents.
Robert Joy — Then
For some coworkers like Sheldon Hawkes, Dr. Sid Hammerback gives them the creeps with his unsettling demeanor. Audiences can understand Hawkes' unease, as Dr. Hammerback tends to overshare a bit too much information. Although he primarily operates behind the scenes in the crime-scene lab, he is an integral part of "CSI: NY" as the indispensable medical examiner.
The crime lab simply wouldn't be able to function without him. Despite his background presence, Dr. Hammerback's brilliance is undeniable, and his occasional flashes of genius shine through. However, it should be noted that these moments of brilliance often come hand in hand with a certain level of creepiness.
Eddie Cahill — Now
This NY-born actor made a name for himself with “CSI: NY.” Cahill was born and bred in the Big Apple and studied at the Atlantic Theatre Acting School part of NYU. Like many actors, Cahill started in theater and it was during his stint in the production, “The Altruists” that he caught the eye of A-lister, Sarah Jessica Parker.
Then, Cahill got regular appearances on TV series such as “Felicity,” “Sex and the City,” and “Law & Order: SVU.” After the last season, Cahill joined the cast of tv-series “Conviction” and “Under the Dome.” He has made appearances in police-drama “Blue Bloods” and the fantasy series “Fantasy Island.” When Cahill is not on the silver screen, he is a hockey fan and unsurprisingly supports the NY-based team, New York Rangers.
Eddie Cahill — Then
Who can forget tough-guy homicide detective Don Flack who offers audiences some of the best one-liners? Though Flack is not actually a qualified crime-scene investigator, he makes a sharp-nosed detective and adds much muscle to the team. If any criminals are looking to make a quick runaway, you can be sure that Flack will be on their tail.
As said, Flack is known for his one-liners but not if you are a criminal or a suspect. Though this detective can catch any criminal who is planning to make a getaway from the police, the best scenes with Don Flack are always in the interrogation room. Don Flack can play both the good cop and bad cop and often a laugh is involved. Suspects get a lot of “flack” from him.
Khandi Alexander — Now
While actress Khandi Alexander is most well-known for her role in “CSI: Miami,” Alexander has added a number of acting credentials to her career since leaving the series. She has starred in “Scandal” and the action film “Patriot’s Day.” However, what you wouldn’t know about Alexander is that she actually started out as a dancer.
In fact, Alexander was a choreographer for Whitney Houston during her world tours from the late 1980s to the early 1990s. If you want to see Alexander busting a move, you can see her in the video of Natalie Cole’s “Pink Cadillac.” Yet, you would be wrong for thinking Alexander is a one-trick pony. She was also featured in some major films like the biographic film “What’s Love Got to Do With It?”
Khandi Alexander — Then
For those die-hard “CSI” fans, you will first remember this character not from “CSI: Miami” but from “CSI.” The character featured in the cross-over episode, “Cross Jurisdictions,” which was a hint about potential “CSI” spin-offs. As her name suggests, Alexx Woods is one of those characters who keep her cool no matter how much work is put on her plate.
And when we say “cool,” we mean it literally as she is a medical examiner who informs other CSI about the causes of death and interesting findings in the victims’ bodies. Woods’s cool demeanor can be downright icy. An obvious example is when the newly recruited Ryan Wolfe joins the CSI team and Woods explains straight out that she is not looking to make any new friends.
Sofia Milos — Now
Swiss-born actress Sofia Milos does a great job bringing out the character’s complexity. Milos has been featured in a number of other series like “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “The Sopranos,” and “The Twilight Zone.” Certainly, one of her biggest acting debuts has been “CSI: Miami,” but other major roles include joining the main cast of “The Secret Lives of Men” and “The Border.”
More recently, the actress portrays Daria in the historical drama, “Project Blue Book.” Milos’s acting is not limited to TV series, but she has also recently featured in the Italian film, “Odissea nell'ospizio.” For those of you who were sad to see Milos depart “CSI: Miami,” you will be relieved to hear that she has reunited with former “CSI” stars in “CSI: Beyond Borders."
Sofia Milos — Then
Being once married to Supervisor Horacio Caine’s brother, but being in love with Caine is not easy for criminal investigator Yelina Salas. Of course, Caine cannot act on his feelings owing to his respect for his brother, but he happens to be there for Salas when she needs him and goes out of his way to protect her. We don’t blame Salas for being a bit confused about how things stand between them.
Viewers grow curious about Salas’ character development and direction especially as she suffers more and more from unrequited love for Horacio. To make things more complex, Salas ends up developing feelings for one of Caine’s main rivals. And then there is always the matter of the former husband. Needless to say, things get very interesting with this character.
Rory Cochrane – Now
Now, this actor, Rory Cochrane, is a definitely familiar face. Originally from Syracuse, this actor’s debuts were appearances in the early 1990s films, “A Kiss Before Dying” and “Fathers & Sons.” However, you are more likely to remember him from his notable and quirky performances in the 1990s teen films “Dazed and Confused” and “Empire Records.”
In fact, it was Cochrane’s performance as Ron Slater in “Dazed and Confused” which gave his acting career the momentum it needed. Cochrane’s career at “CSI: Miami” was never expected to last as the actor had too many upcoming job opportunities like films “Argo,” “Black Mass” and “Hostiles” where the actor starred alongside A-listers such as Ben Affleck, Christian Bale, and Johnny Depp. In terms of TV, Cochrane also starred in “24."
Rory Cochrane — Then
If you are an uber-“CSI” fan, then you will have encountered this character way back in 2002. It was then that “CSI” viewers realized that there would be possible spin-offs of the popular crime-scene investigation show. Given that this character’s nickname is Speed, it tells us much about his personality. For one thing, he drives a bike.
Detective Timothy “Speed” Speedle doesn’t waste time even if it means being a bit careless. He forms quite the bond with fellow investigator Eric Delko and the two make quite a formidable force. He is one of those characters who seems to get less patient and more careless as the seasons progress. We don’t have much time with Speed as a bit of carelessness on his part leads to the character’s early exit.
Jonathan Togo — Now
Before “CSI: Miami,” Jonathan Togo starred in the film, “Mystic River” with A-listers like Sean Penn and Tim Robbins. Other earlier credits include appearances in “Law & Order,” “Ed,” and “Judging Amy.” While “CSI: Miami” is Togo’s main acting claim to fame, Togo remains a steady figure in the TV series circuit such as appearing in “Covert Affairs” and the popular TV series “Lucifer.”
Togo has also been featured in movies like the comedy “7 Chinese Brothers,” “A Rising Tide” and “Infinity Baby.” Clearly, Togo has a true love for film as he created a web that doesn’t have a PG name. Fortunately, he also created another web series. It doesn’t have the catchiest name, “Casted: The Continuing Chronicles of Derek Riffchyn, Greatest Casting Director in the World. Ever."
Jonathan Togo — Then
After the Miami criminal investigation unit lost one of its finest, Detective Tim Speedle, the former policeman Ryan Wolfe joins the team. Since Wolfe was replacing a much-loved Speedle, it is hard for him to fit in, especially when one of his first cases involves investigating the father of one of his colleagues. Wolfe as a fine and dedicated investigator manages to overcome his colleagues’ initial hostility.
On the surface, Wolfe might seem to be a goody-two-shoes, but viewers soon learn that there is a lot going on with this character. In fact, Wolfe is one of the most complex characters as he is fighting an addiction and his sense of justice overrides his commitment to his job. Nonetheless, he makes a fine investigator, and his hard work pays off.
Vanessa Ferlito – Now
This striking actress hails from Brooklyn. And when we say striking, we are not lying as Ferlito also worked as a model for Wilhelmina. If you have watched “Death Proof,” then you will instantly recognize Vanessa Ferlito as Butterfly, especially with her unforgettable dialogue and dance moves. In the same year that “Death Proof” was released, Ferlito also welcomed a child into the world.
While she has become a familiar face on the silver screen, it has taken Ferlito some appearances on “The Sopranos” and “Third Watch” to make a name for herself in showbiz. Her big break came in the TV movie “Undefeated.” After her short spell at “CSI: NY,” Ferlito joined the series “Graceland” and “NCIS: New Orleans” and starred in films like “Duke” and “All Mistakes Buried."
Vanessa Ferlito — Then
We had such a short time with the investigator Aiden Burn. Though we only enjoyed one season with Detective Burn, she definitely made an impact. Audiences will remember her for being one of the most determined detectives – so determined that she put her life on the line to make sure a case was solved and justice was served. Admittedly, Burn was not always in the right.
She was willing to plant evidence to make sure a suspect was put behind bars. We still give her credit for doing all she could to ensure justice was served. It was only thanks to Burn’s sacrifice that the NY crime-scene investigation had enough evidence to prosecute. We are wondering whether the writers intentionally called the character Aiden Burn as she was incinerated.
Adam Rodriguez — Now
Though Adam Rodriguez is of Hispanic descent (his mother is Puerto Rican and his father half-Puerto Rican and half-Cuban), he calls the Big Apple his home. The actor is most famous for his role as Delko in “CSI: Miami," but he has a successful career joining the cast of the raunchy romance “Magic Mike,” “Magic Mike: XXL” and “Magic Mike’s Last Dance.”
Before this actor transitioned to the silver screen, he had a career in stock broking. We can say that many viewers are pleased with the actor’s career change. Making it in the acting world is never easy. Rodriguez’s first parts include appearances on “Felicity” and “Law & Order.” If your memory is sharp, you might remember seeing him in a Jennifer Lopez music video, “If You Had My Love.”
Adam Rodriguez — Then
Didn’t we all love the friendship shared by criminal investigators Eric Delko and Tim Speedle? What we loved more was the friendship that blossomed into romance between Delko and colleague, Calleigh Duquesne. Though “CSI: Miami” gave us many hints about their getting together, we were quite impressed when Delko finally left his playing days behind him.
However, it takes “CSI: Miami” viewers a whole seven seasons, before they can finally see the Callie-Delko relationship blossom. Unsurprisingly, like most “CSI” relationships, the Callie-Delko has a lot of bumps in the beginning and we’re never sure if the two become an item. When it comes to work, Delko is a committed and serious investigator. His heart often gets involved in his work, but that is the reason why audience members loved him.
Anna Belknap — Now
While she is most known for playing “Montana” in “CSI: NY,” this actress hails from Maine. Her pursuit of a career in acting took her all the way to San Francisco where she studied at the non-profit theater, American Conservatory Theatre. You might be most familiar with actress, Anna Belknap, from “CSI: NY" but she starred in TV series such as “Without a Trace” and “The Comeback” before joining the “CSI: NY” cast.
After the last season of the series, Belknap has made appearances on “How to Get Away With Murder,” “Law & Order: SVU,” and “The Good Doctor." You will also catch her in the comedy “No Way Jose” released in 2015. Anna Belknap has been married to Eric Siegal since 2004. The two have since had two children.
Anna Belknap — Then
Most audience members will have to admit that the hardworking, whole-heartedly committed Lindsay “Montana” Monroe-Messer captured their hearts. Monroe joined the New York criminal investigation team from Montana, earning her unsurprisingly the nickname “Montana” from a coworker – and later, love interest – Danny Messner. With Messner, the two have quite the romance. However, Montana has to learn to assert herself in the relationship and helps Messer to become a dedicated father.
Though she seems the easy-going investigator, later, we learn why Monroe is so serious about her job. She has suffered a traumatic event in the past which has left scars, but which also gave her the drive to put the right people behind bars. Speaking of bars, she also tracks her boss down to where he plays shows in secret.
Alana de la Garza – Now
Though born in Ohio, Alana de la Garza was raised in El Paso but later moved to Florida where she had some minor roles. While we know her as Marisol Delko, this was one of de la Garza’s minor roles. Her main claims to fame include portraying Consuela Rubirosa in “Law & Order” and “Law & Order: SVU.”
Since then, the actress has been busy with other projects including joining the main cast of “Criminal Minds” and “Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders.” And since 2019, she has played SAC Isobel Castille on the crime drama "FBI," as well as its spinoff "FBI: Most Wanted." Currently, the actress is married to Michael Roberts and the couple have two children.
Alana de la Garza – Then
This character’s name is quite the mouthful — Marisol Delektorsky Caine. No wonder they just settled for Marisol Delko. It is a pity that we had such a short time with this ill-fated character. She is the sister of the crime-scene investigator, Eric Delko, and was the wife of Horatio Caine. Audience members were given a glimpse introduction to this character in season 1.
But in season 4, we really got to know her. Unfortunately, the writers of “CSI: NY” did not go easy on this character. After being diagnosed with cancer, she and her brother resorted to some illicit action to get the homeopathic medicine she needs. Sadly, she was taken from us in season 10, after she sacrificed herself to let Natalia Boa Vista be saved instead.
AJ Buckley — Now
AJ Buckley hails from the Irish capital Dublin. He moved to Canada when he was six, so “technically” he is Canadian. One of his first roles was in the sci-fi thriller “Disturbing Behavior” but he has also made appearances in films such as “The In Crowd.” His career has taken an upward turn since his days at “CSI: NY."
He joined the main cast of “SEAL Team” for which the actor has bulked up a lot for. In fact, you’d barely say that the actor portraying Adam Ross is the same starring as Sonny Quinn. When Buckley is not acting, he is also a producer and one of his production credits is the crime mystery “Marlowe.” Buckley is also a family man and has been with Abigail Ochse since 2010.
AJ Buckley — Then
Who can forget the sweet, but slightly insecure lab techie? AJ Buckley portrayed the lab techie, Adam Ross – one of the most loyal members of New York’s criminal investigation unit. Adam spends most of his time in the lab and most of the time being petrified of his superiors. Despite being intimidated by his coworkers and stammering through much of his work, Adam is a capable lab techie and is crucial to the investigation.
Though Adam’s main jurisdiction is the New York lab, he every now and then accompanies his colleagues to the crime scene to help them with evidence collection or reenactments. While Adam is one of the minor characters making up the NY CSI, we learn more about him as the seasons progress, including his love life.
Carmine Giovinazzo — Now
Carmine Giovinazzo brought bad boy Danny Messer to life. Like his on-screen character, Giovinazzo was also raised in New York. Before his big break with “CSI: NY,” Giovinazzo had a promising career in baseball. He had earned himself a baseball scholarship with Wagner College. Sadly, after suffering a back injury, he had to quit and turned to acting.
Since “CSI: NY,” Giovinazzo’s career hasn’t really taken off, but he starred in the 2022 film “Breaking” and made an appearance on the TV series “Batwoman.” He is also a musician, with an episode featuring one of his songs. You might actually know this actor’s ex-wife, Vanessa Marcil who has starred in “Beverly Hills, 90210” and “Las Vegas.” Sadly, the couple was not married long as they got divorced in 2013.
Carmine Giovinazzo — Then
For many viewers, we can’t deny that this criminal investigator was a heartthrob. It was probably because of Messner’s serious, on-the-job attitude and his playfulness. But we all knew that Messner was a bad boy, the kind with his heart in the right place. Messer was the quintessential bad boy. He came from a rough background and grew up in the shadier side of the city.
But nonetheless, he was a committed crime-scene investigator and showed real heart on more than one occasion. Too bad, “Montana” – better known as Lindsey – snatched him up. Yet, true to his bad boy nature, Messner struggled with commitment. In the end, he came right. Messner pulled up his socks and straightened himself out, showing his true colors and dedication to his family.
Melina Karakaredes — Now
You will have seen this actress around before, even before her days on “CSI: NY," Karakaredes made a name for herself on TV with the TV drama “Providence." “CSI: NY” did not miscast this actress when they gave her a Greek and Italian background. The actress’s full name is Melina Eleni Kanakaredes Constantinides, as she is of Greek descent.
She also speaks Greek fluently. In fact, Karakaredes might be currently preoccupied with rediscovering her Greek roots as she recently starred as Ariana in the anime series “Blood of Zeus.” Though she only starred in two episodes in this anime, if you are hoping to catch more of Karakaredes, you can catch her in the medical drama “The Resident.” Like in “Providence,” it looks like Karakaredes is back playing a doctor.
Melina Karakaredes — Then
You will remember this actress portraying Stella Bonasera who was the assistant supervisor for the dayshift team for the New York crime lab. We grew close to Bonasera as despite her petite build and deep golden locks, she packed quite the punch and was quite tough on her crew. Though she was quite a force to be reckoned with, she knew how to take a joke.
Bonasera tends to have a great handle on her job except when it comes a bit too close to her personal life. We must admit that this character’s personal life is full of ups and downs including boyfriends who take her hostage. It was sad to see the actress’s exit in Season 6 as Melina Karakaredes brought an interesting dynamic to the cast.
George Eads – Now
Unfortunately, George Eads bid farewell to "CSI" following a heated disagreement with a writer regarding his character's creative trajectory. Post-"CSI," Eads delved into another crime drama, the revived series "MacGyver," assuming the role of Jack Dalton until his departure in 2019.
More recently, he graced the screen in the Korean War drama, "The Battle of Jangsari," showcasing his versatility. Additionally, Eads made notable appearances in a couple of episodes of the heartfelt series "This Is Us," further expanding his repertoire. Despite the bumps in his career journey, Eads continues to explore diverse roles, captivating audiences with his remarkable talent and dedication.
George Eads – Then
George Eads successfully launched his career thanks to his role as Crime Scene Investigator, Nick Stokes. A veteran cast member, he appeared in an incredible 335 episodes of "CSI" and worked as a member of the main cast from the beginning until the end of the last season.
Stokes was known to be one of the most personable and empathetic members of his unit, managing to have a good rapport with most of his colleagues. Sadly, Nick Stokes was written out of the show and did not make it into the series finale. Eads previously appeared in shows such as "Savannah" and "ER."
Eva LaRue – Now
In the past, Eva LaRue was known as Dr. Maria Santos Grey in "All My Children." Sadly, when "CSI: Miami" was canceled in 2012, Eva only made brief appearances on tv shows in the succeeding years.
Recently, she returned to her place on daytime soaps in her role of Celeste Rosales on "The Young and the Restless" in 2019, and, as of 2020, she can be seen on "Finding Love in Quarantine." Outside of the world of acting, LaRue was stalked for the good part of a decade. Eventually, though, the culprit was caught and sentenced to 5 years in prison.
Eva LaRue – Then
Eva LaRue joined the cast of "CSI: Miami" in 2005 in season five as Natalia Boa Vista. She enters the storyline with a mysterious background that comes into full light when she is revealed as an FBI informant at the end of the season. Once she became a show regular, she eventually earned the trust of her on-screen team and the "CSI" audience.
Natalia Boa Vista stayed on the show till the series finale. Before her time on "CSI," LaRue appeared in shows such as "Freddy's Nightmares," "Married... with Children," and "Dallas." She even appeared in "RoboCop 3" back in the '90s.
Gary Dourdan – Now
After disagreements over his contract with CBS, Gary Dourdan left "CSI." And though he made some appearances in other shows and films, his personal life began to unravel. Dourdan was arrested for possession of illicit substances and, a few years later, was also charged with possession of paraphernalia following a car crash.
Unfortunately, Dourdan's personal life only continued to spiral as he was sentenced to five years of probation for a domestic assault case and then filed for bankruptcy in 2012. Despite this, Dourdan has continued to find work in the world of acting, showing up in shows such as "First Wives Club" and "The Last O.G."
Gary Dourdan – Then
Gary Dourdan's character Warrick Brown became one of the most popular characters in "CSI" history. He appeared in every episode from season to season eight, where he was tragically killed off by being shot to death by undersheriff Jeffrey McKeen.
His death carried over briefly into season nine as Grissom discovered Brown bleeding to death, marking his last appearance on the show. Fans and critics were shocked and saddened by Brown's death as he had become a well-liked character. Prior to "CSI," Dourdan appeared in shows such as "Lois & Clark: New Adventures of Superman" and "Swift Justice," to name a few.
William Petersen – Now
After starring in 196 episodes of "CSI," Petersen left the show in 2009 as an Emmy-nominated actor. He has taken his time getting back into everyday acting but has appeared in some projects. In 2012, he appeared in "Seeking a Friend for the End of the World," which also starred Steve Carell.
He joined the cast of "Manhattan" in season two for ten episodes, but unfortunately, the show was canceled at the end of the year. However, "CSI" fans were delighted when Peterson reprised the role of Gil Grissom in "CSI: Vegas." Though the experience took a toll on his health.
William Petersen – Then
The "CSI" franchise, more or less, does not exist without Gil Grissom leading the way on its source material. He appeared in every episode from the pilot through season eight, a nearly irreplaceable cast member. As the supervisor of the team, Gil went from witty and enthusiastic, to irritated and unapproachable due to the loss of his hearing.
Despite being the center of the show, he was eventually replaced by Lawrence Fishburne after retiring from the show in season nine but will never be forgotten by devoted fans. Before "CSI," Petersen was in movies such as "Thief," "Manhunter," and "Young Guns II."
Romy Rosemont – Now
Though Romy Rosemont only appeared in 14 episodes of "CSI," she made appearances in plenty of projects before joining the cast, such as "Fringe" and "Brothers and Sisters." After "CSI," she found a sweet spot in her career as Carole Hudson on "Glee." Over the last few years alone, she has appeared on a number of prominent TV shows.
These include the likes of "A Million Little Things," "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," "How to Get Away with Murder," "Angie Tribeca," "9-1-1," "The Morning Show," "Grown-ish," and "You," to name a few! Rosemont's husband, Stephen Root, has also had plenty of success in recent times, appearing in hit HBO shows such as "Barry" and "Succession.
Romy Rosemont – Then
Romy Rosemont already showed in some of the biggest TV shows before playing Jacqui Franco on "CSI." These included "Murphy Brown," "ER," and "Ally McBeal." She showed up in seasons three, four, and five of "CSI." Jacqui was the fingerprint lab technician who became indispensable to the team.
Jacqui's character was a serious one in both work and life, but she revealed a lighter side in the season three episode, "A Night at the Movies." In this episode, she made a bet with Greg about who could process the results of a weapon quickest and, upon being declared the loser, agreed to wear a rather humiliating hat.
Alex Carter – Now
Alex Carter, a talented actor, was born in Canada and now resides in California alongside his cherished family. Throughout his career, Carter has made significant contributions to both television and film. Even before, during, and after his involvement in "CSI," he consistently took on compelling roles in numerous TV shows and a handful of movies.
Known for his affinity towards crime dramas, Carter often found himself immersed in projects within that genre. Currently, audiences can catch him captivating viewers with his portrayal of Freddie in the enthralling series, "Stumptown." Carter continues to leave a big impression on the entertainment industry.
Alex Carter – Then
Louis Vartann, played by Alex Carter, came to "CSI" with a richer backstory than most homicide detectives. Carter had already starred in TV shows such as "Side Effects," "Due South," and "Black Harbour." Vartann was previously a detective for the homicide unit of the Las Vegas Police Department so he obviously didn't need much training.
He had battled alcoholism and managed to become very personally entangled in one of the cases. He eventually became quite close with one of the team leaders and, in season ten, particularly with Catherine Willows. Throughout the show, Detective Vartann appeared in forty-one episodes of "CSI."
Marc Vann – Now
Marc Vann's illustrious career spans over three decades, beginning in 1992 and leaving a notable mark on both television series and movies. With an impressive portfolio, Vann graced the small screen with appearances in renowned shows such as "Lost," where he showcased his talent in four captivating episodes.
He further left his imprint on popular titles like "Modern Family," "Monk," "Without A Trace," and "Grey's Anatomy." Regrettably, since 2016, Vann's career seemed to have hit a visible pause, with no new projects credited to his name. Nonetheless, his past contributions and undeniable talent ensure that his legacy in the entertainment industry remains enduring.
Marc Vann – Then
Marc Vann became a massive presence in the hearts of "CSI" fans through his portrayal of Conrad Ecklie, the Assistant Director of the crime lab. Throughout the franchise's run, Vann graced the screen in every season, save for three and four. Initially introduced as an antagonist to the team, Ecklie's character underwent a significant transformation.
In season ten, he received a well-deserved promotion to Undersheriff, and his evolution continued as he ascended to the esteemed rank of Sheriff of Clark County by season thirteen. Vann's nuanced portrayal captured the complexities of Ecklie's journey, leaving a lasting impact on the "CSI" series and showcasing his exceptional talent to audiences worldwide.
Archie Kao – Now
Before "CSI," Archie Kao made little appearances, primarily on tv shows, but also did voice-over work for video games. Kao might be best recognizable to kids from the turn of the century as he played Kai Chen (or the Blue Ranger) on Power Rangers: Lost Galaxy.
After "CSI," Archie was a part of the "Chicago P.D." cast and also had the opportunity to add the 2015 thriller, "Blackhat" (starring Chris Hemsworth), to his resume. Truth be told, Kao hasn't really been in the spotlight in recent times. In fact, he hasn't had an acting role since 2018. Sadly, Kao divorced his ex-wife Zhou Xun in 2020.
Archie Kao – Then
In the gripping second season of "CSI," viewers were introduced to the captivating character of Archie Johnson, the mastermind behind the crime lab's audiovisual operations. With his tech-savvy prowess, love for motorcycles, and unabashed Star Trek fandom, Archie Johnson stood out as an intriguing presence.
Originally slated for just a single episode, Archie, played by Archie Kao, made such a profound impression on executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer that he swiftly advocated for the character's return as a recurring fixture. Recognizing Kao's remarkable talent, Bruckheimer conveyed his desire to have Archie grace the screen once more, solidifying his place in the series and captivating audiences with each subsequent appearance.
David Berman – Now
David Berman, a versatile talent, left his mark on the entertainment industry with his contributions both on-screen and off-screen. Besides his on-camera appearances, Berman played a vital role as the dedicated full-time researcher for the show he was part of. Following his time on "CSI," although his career experienced a deceleration, it did not come to a complete halt.
Berman continued to captivate audiences with his acting prowess in notable television series like "Bones," "Daybreak," and, up until 2020, "The Blacklist." His versatile range and dedication to his craft ensured that his impact on the industry remained enduring until the present day.
David Berman – Then
Among the "CSI" cast, few remained as steadfast as David Berman, who portrayed the dedicated Assistant Coroner, Dave Phillips. Throughout his tenure on the show, Dave became affectionately known as "Super Dave" while diligently assisting Dr. Robbins.
From the fifth episode of season one until the series finale, David Phillips proved to be a recurring character with remarkable longevity, captivating audiences for nine seasons. Berman's portrayal of Dave showcased unwavering commitment and a genuine rapport with the rest of the cast, solidifying his place as an integral part of the "CSI" universe, and leaving a huge mark on the show's legacy.
Ted Danson – Now
Ted Danson is a highly accomplished actor, having been in front of the camera with relatively no pauses, since 1970. Following the finale of "CSI," Danson joined the cast of "Fargo" as Sheriff Hank Larsson, but he will always be a familiar face from his performance as Sam Malone on the show "Cheers."
Presently, Danson stars with Kristen Bell on NBC's "The Good Place" as the architect of a neighborhood in a pseudo-heaven, and he will also be starring in the new comedy series, "Mr. Mayor." Also, Danson keeps popping on "Curb Your Enthusiasm." It feels like he'll never disappear from our sights — and rightfully so.
Ted Danson – Then
After Lawrence Fishburne's contract was not renewed and he left the show, the producers yet again found themselves lacking a high-powered star. They turned to one of the most winsome actors in all of Hollywood, Ted Danson. There is no denying that it was a bit odd seeing the "Cheers" star show up in a "CSI" series.
After all, he's better known for having played lighter roles over the years. Dr. Langston's departure left a void, but Danson's D.B. Russell character filled the void with his calming presence. He maintained the role for the last four seasons, but also made an appearance in season two of "CSI: Cyber."
Gary Sinise – Now
Gary Sinise had a well-polished career before coming to "CSI" and has won multiple Emmys for his roles in "George Wallace" and "Truman." He also received an Oscar nomination for his memorable character, Lieutenant Dan in "Forrest Gump." After the end of the show, he joined another successful CBS crime franchise as Jack Garrett, in "Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders."
The show was canceled, but Sinise has continued to grow his career. In addition to acting, Gary Sinise is also a proud supporter of the U.S. Military and has a philanthropic foundation that provides aid to veterans. Sinise's most recent TV roles came in the Netflix series "13 Reasons Why."
Gary Sinise – Then
CSI producers began yet another spinoff of the CSI franchise with another star leading the way. Gary Sinise became Mac Taylor in "CSI: NY," a military veteran who had a sobering backstory where his wife died in the September 11th terrorist attacks. The character of Mac Taylor was a likable one and an excellent leader to those under him.
He was a CSI supervisor and directed his team through nine seasons of gritty, New York crime. Sinise became a familiar face on "CSI" as he appeared in 200 episodes of the franchise. Of course, Sinise is probably best known for his role as Lieutenant Dan in "Forrest Gump."
Jon Wellner – Now
Jon Wellner is probably best known for his role on "CSI," but has had numerous appearances on shows like "Bones," "Drop Dead Diva" and "NCIS," just to name a few. Before his role in "CSI," Wellner also rubbed shoulders with some of today's biggest stars – George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon in "Ocean's 13."
Unfortunately, since "CSI" ended in 2015, Wellner's career also came to a halt as he has not taken on any projects since. With that said, Wellner did make TV viewers gasp a little when he showed up in one episode of the popular comedy-drama "Shameless."
Jon Wellner – Then
Jon Wellner's journey on "CSI" began with a cameo appearance as a zookeeper in the show's fifth season. However, he patiently bided his time until his opportunity to become a part of the main cast arose in season thirteen. As Henry Andrews, the skilled toxicology expert, his role didn't demand a constant on-set presence.
Henry's character was portrayed as somewhat uptight, often fumbling with humor, yet his endearing nature shone through, making him a beloved addition to the ensemble. Despite facing challenges with comedic timing, Wellner's portrayal of Henry brought a unique charm and an engaging dynamic to the cast, further enriching the show's captivating narrative.
Liz Vassey – Now
Liz Vassey made small appearances on quite a few television shows in the 90s and early 2000s before finding a stable platform for her career on "CSI." She appeared in 40 episodes of the 1995 show "Brotherly Love" with Andrew, Matthew, and Joey Lawrence.
Since leaving "CSI," Vassey also appeared on "Two and a Half Men," in addition to the TV show, "Necessary Roughness," and in 2019, "The Tick." And then, in 2023, she appeared in two episodes of the family drama series "A Million Little Things." Vassey has been happily married to David Emmerichs since 2004 and the couple is still going strong until this very day.
Liz Vassey – Then
Wendy Simms, played by actress Liz Vassey, first appeared in the sixth season of "CSI." Prior to this, Vassey was already a prolific TV star, appearing in the shows such as "All My Children," "Star Trek: The Next Generation," and "Beverly Hills, 90210." Simms began a rivalry with David Hodges in her recurring role.
But she eventually grew to have feelings for him as they worked closely together in the lab. Following four seasons as a recurring character, she was ultimately promoted to star alongside the main cast. As many of the show's actors renegotiated their contracts, Vassey permanently left the show following a season eleven episode.
Robert David Hall – Now
Although both of his legs were amputated in 1978, Robert David Hall never ceased acting. Many of his characters share his disability, including Dr. Robbins. Outside of acting, Hall is also a talented musician; he plays guitar, piano, percussion, and mandolin. He worked as a DJ for years in Los Angeles and has also recorded voiceovers for other projects.
Though he had a brief break in his career, the end of "CSI" has not ended his acting legacy. The seasoned performer has continued to grow his career, having appeared in movies such as "Rock Story" and "Aaah! Roach!" He also appeared as himself in the documentary "Diffability Hollywood."
Robert David Hall– Then
Robert David Hall took on the role of Dr. Robbins, who was the Chief Medical Examiner. Dr. Al Robbins did not have his first appearance until a few episodes into season one, Robert David Hall had the distinction of appearing in most cases in the CSI franchise.
Tragically, Hall lost his legs in a car accident in 1978, but this did not at all hinder his performance as Dr. Robbins. The injury was written into the role of Dr. Robbins, who is seen in a wheelchair in almost every scene, except for a few scenes in which he wears prosthetics.
Wallace Langham – Now
Wallace Langham began his acting career in the mid-80s, with roles peppered through numerous tv shows in the nineties. From the earliest part of his career, he is probably most well-known for his role as Mark Ratner on the "Fast Times" TV series. Since CSI ended, Langham has successfully sustained his career, maintaining the same pattern of work till now.
He has appeared on "Grey's Anatomy," "Veronica Mars," and can also be seen in the new short film, "The Ball Method." In 2023, Langham had a recurring role as Melville Phipps in what turned out to be the final season of HBO's "Perry Mason."
Wallace Langham – Then
Lab technician David Hodges, played by Wallace Langham, joined the team in season three, spending five seasons as a recurring character before he was promoted to the main cast in season eight. As a germophobic over-explainer, the character of Hodges was not exceptionally charming.
Langham described his character as a "pain in the (butt)" and a suck-up, but the role added narrative texture to the cast as a whole. Langham started off in the acting world in small roles in a bunch of '80s movies. Funnily enough, he used to be credited in acting roles as "Wally Ward." He has come very far since.
Eric Szmanda – Now
"CSI" has been the biggest project that Eric Szmanda has taken on so far in his somewhat spotty career. He has appeared in various television programs. But, truth be told, he remained relatively unknown as an actor. Since the show ended, he has had only two non-CSI-related projects that he has acted in.
Szmanda joined co-star Jorja Fox in a benefit to raise money for saving animals around the world from animal cruelty, and he also traveled to Thailand to speak with Burmese refugees. Hopefully, his acting career will bloom again after his crime-drama film, "Adverse" is released in 2020.
Eric Szmanda – Then
Sometimes, when you have a show that is so dark and serious, it's nice to add some levity to the mix. Greg Sanders, played by Eric Szmanda, was a great source of comic relief in a show built around murder and drama. Greg began as a recurring character, but by season three was a part of the main cast as a technician on the homicide investigation crew.
Greg was characterized by his deadpan humor but often irritated his superior, Gil Grissom. He started the show as a trainee but worked his way into being one of the better investigators on the team.
Elisabeth Harnois – Now
Despite her early success as a child actress and her involvement in a number of commercials during her formative years, Elisabeth Harnois's career failed to attain A-list status. After the conclusion of her role in "CSI," Harnois gradually receded from the public eye, primarily featuring in small-scale TV movies.
Her most recent television movie was completed in 2019, marking a temporary pause in her on-screen appearances. However, beyond these projects, Harnois seems to deliberately maintain an exceptionally private life, shielding herself from the prying eyes of the media and allowing her personal world to flourish far away from the spotlight.
Elisabeth Harnois – Then
Morgan Brody, played by Elisabeth Harnois, stepped onto the show in season eleven. But as soon as season twelve was around the corner, she was one of the main roles. Brody came to the Las Vegas CSI unit from the Los Angeles Police Department, and despite having a relatively simple backstory, she did have a connection to Catherine Willows in her past.
Five years before Harnois worked on "CSI," she had an appearance on an episode of "CSI: Miami" as a separate character. After joining the cast, Harnois continued in the role of Brody to the end of the show and in the series finale.
Paul Guilfoyle – Now
After departing from CSI, Paul Guilfoyle was seen on a couple of tv movies and shows. He did have an uncredited appearance in Alfonso Cuaron's sci-fi thriller, "Gravity," and though the role was small, the movie won seven Academy Awards. In his next film, Spotlight, Guilfoyle played Pete Conley, which also starred Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, and Rachel McAdams, and took home two Academy Awards.
His most recent film projects include the dramedy, "The Good House," and the thriller "The Seville Communion." One of Guilfoyle's most recent roles came in the thriller "The Man from Rome," in which he starred alongside Richard Armitage and Paul Freeman.
Paul Guilfoyle – Then
Paul Guilfoyle began acting in the mid-seventies, and though he was not a blockbuster star, he did have a versatile career as he took on projects from different genres. Three decades into his acting career, Paul Guilfoyle played the captain of the homicide team, Jim Brass.
He was a former Marine and Vietnam Veteran before his career began in the homicide unit. Brass became a fan favorite from the very beginning and appeared in 317 episodes over the first fourteen seasons of the show. Sadly, the producers decided to discontinue the plotline for Jim Brass, and they wrote him out of the show.
Elisabeth Shue – Now
Before CSI, Elisabeth Shue was already a seasoned actress having starred in various movies and tv shows. She is probably best known for playing Jennifer, Marty McFly's girlfriend, in "Back to the Future" parts one and two. After "CSI," Elisabeth maintained a relatively low-key career, appearing briefly on a handful of TV shows.
However, she appeared alongside Tom Hanks in the World War Two drama, "Greyhound," and will also be seen on the tv series, "On the Verge," a show centered on women navigating life in their forties. Recently, Shue had a recurring role in the hit Amazon Prime series "The Boys."
Elisabeth Shue – Then
After Catherine Willows, who was played by Marg Helgenberger, left the show, the producers were in a desperate search for another female lead. They decided upon Academy Award nominee Elisabeth Shue to take her place as Julie Finlay. As a blood splatter specialist with the team, Julie Finlay brought a unique specialty to the cast.
She stayed on the show for four seasons, joining during season twelve and staying on until the end of the show. The character of Julie Finlay, unfortunately, did not make it to the finale. This is because she fell into a coma following a brutal beating.
Lauren Lee Smith – Now
Originally from Vancouver, Canada, Lauren Lee Smith is probably not very well-known to American audiences outside of "CSI." Before joining "CSI," she was in a handful of lesser-known tv shows and tv movies, primarily for the Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC).
After "CSI," Lauren managed to return to the CBC on the show, "The Listener," which unfortunately ended in 2014. She last had the starring role in the series "Frankie Drake Mysteries," but since then has not picked up any new projects. In 2017, Smith had a minor role in the Academy Award winner for Best Picture "The Shape of Water." And in 2022, she appeared in four episodes of "Departure."
Lauren Lee Smith – Then
One of the most challenging circumstances that producers can find themselves in is the need to replace a long-standing role with a different actor. Lauren Lee Smith joined the cast during season nine as the main cast replacement for Jorja Fox's Sara Sidle. Surely enough though, Smith was a worthy replacement.
The character of Riley Adams, who initially got along with her colleagues, was tough and rebellious and was often combative with her superior, Catherine Willows. The character of Riley Adams disappeared well before "CSI" ended, as her contentious relationship with Willows resulted in a scathing review of Catherine during her exit interview.
Aisha Tyler – Now
Aisha Tyler also managed to have a successful career after CSI. Her career continued to flourish in 2001 after taking over as one of the hosts of "The Talk" and she has also starred in a variety of movies and tv shows like "Bedtime Stories," "Criminal Minds," and "Diary of a Future President," among others.
In her career so far, Aisha has managed to gracefully pivot towards different avenues; becoming an author, producer, and director. One of the most recent movies she showed up in was the comedy-drama "Friendsgiving." In 2022, Tyler put her trivia knowledge to the test, competing in "Celebrity Jeopardy!"
Aisha Tyler – Then
Though only appearing on the show for one season, Aisha Tyler played the memorable character, Mia Dickerson. Dickerson appeared in season five as a DNA lab technician and was defined by her exacting and almost neurotic behavior, commonly complaining of her colleagues contaminating her workspace.
Tyler also appeared in an episode of "CSI: Miami" but later left "CSI" altogether when she became busy with multiple projects in her career. Tyler also gained fame early on for her recurring role as the love interest of both Ross and Joey, Charlie, on arguably the most popular sitcom of all time - "Friends."
Laurence Fishburne – Now
Leaving "CSI" in no way hindered Fishburne's career as he went on to star in multiple films and TV shows, including "Man of Steel," "Hannibal," "Contagion," and "Where'd You Go Bernadette," just to name a few. You can currently see him playing the sassy grandfather, Pops, on the TV show "Blackish."
Fishburne even showed up in comic book movies in both the MCU and the DCEU. He has received multiple Emmy award nominations and wins and was also nominated for an academy award for his role in "What's Love Got to Do with It." With so much versatility and longevity as an actor, Fishburne's career is far from over.
Laurence Fishburne – Then
Dr. Ray Langston, played by Lawrence Fishburne, brought a calm and contemplative character to the "CSI" storyline. Before joining CSI, Fishburne had one of the most impressive resumes of any cast member, having starred in multiple films and TV shows, including "Apocalypse Now," "Predators," "Mission Impossible 3," and "Boyz N' Da Hood."
But the role that really took his career to a whole new level was as the mentor to Neo, Morpheus, in "The Matrix." He became one of the show's stars in seasons nine through eleven but shockingly did not renew his contract, and he was written out of the show.
Emily Procter – Now
After "CSI: Miami," Procter's career also diminished as she only made a couple of appearances on the TV series "White Collar," but she also starred in the 2016 film "Love Everlasting." Outside of acting, Emily is also a singer, poker player, and philanthropist who enjoys her life outside the spotlight with her husband and daughter.
She is very much interested in antiques and interior decoration. As far as the latter goes, she ended up decorating her 1921 Spanish-style home in Los Angeles. Procter also ended up being a guest judge on "Summer Showdown," a show on the Home & Garden Television network.
Emily Procter – Then
Emily Proctor's journey in the entertainment industry commenced with humble beginnings, gracing the screens of lesser-known TV shows and small-scale TV movies. However, it was her breakthrough moment that arrived with the impactful film "Leaving Las Vegas," where she shared the spotlight with the acclaimed Nicolas Cage.
Soon after, Proctor's remarkable talent found its true home on the hit series "CSI: Miami" as the captivating character of Calleigh Duquesne. With her intelligence and bilingual proficiency, Calleigh's expertise in ballistics earned her the moniker "bullet girl." Throughout the show's captivating run, Calleigh's beauty and brilliance resonated with viewers, leaving an indelible mark that endured from the show's inception to its unforgettable series finale.
David Caruso – Now
Throughout his career, David Caruso was typecast in authoritarian roles such as policemen and therefore, will most likely be best known for his role as Horatio Caine. Surprisingly, despite being one of the most iconic characters in the CSI franchise, David Caruso's career flickered out after "CSI: Miami" wrapped in 2012.
It is reportedly both expensive and challenging to bring Caruso onto a project, so it appears that he remains more or less a retired actor, not appearing in any well-known projects since 2012. Since then, he has been involved in art and is a co-owner of the South Miami clothing store Steam on Sunset.
David Caruso – Then
Probably the most recognizable face of "CSI: Miami" is Horatio Caine, played by David Caruso. Let's face it, when most people think of CSI, in general, they think of this iconically-named protagonist. The character of Horatio (also called "H") became central to each episode and the series as a whole and was the head of the forensic lab.
Most notable was his trademark of slipping on his sunglasses while dropping a one-liner about the case featured in that episode. This move not only made Horatio Caine stand out to the audience on the screen but also became a popular parody in pop culture.
Marg Helgenberger – Now
After "CSI," Marg Helgenberger had a relatively slow-paced career with a couple of films and TV movies. These included "Almost Friends" and "A Dog's Journey," among others. Outside of acting, she also works to raise awareness for cancer research and is passionate about environmental activism.
Presently you can see her back in the dramatic crime genre playing Judge Lisa Benner on the TV show "All Rise." At one point, fans weren't sure if Helgenberger would ever return to the "CSI" family. But then, she reprised the role of Catherine Willows as a series regular in the second season of "CSI: Vegas."
Marg Helgenberger – Then
One of the most recognizable faces on "CSI" is Marg Helgenberger's, Catherine Willows. The character of Catherine Willows had a rich backstory. This iconic character was actually based on a real-life forensic scientist, Yolanda McClary, who worked for the Las Vegas Police Department for 26 years. This made the role feel even more realistic.
Marg Helgenberger received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe award nominations for her portrayal of Catherine Willows but eventually left to pursue other projects and was last seen in season twelve. Around the same time that she was joining "CSI," Helgenberger starred in movies such as "Species," "Species II," and "Erin Brockovich."
Jorja Fox – Now
Jorja Fox is a veteran of tv show dramas having starred not only in "CSI" but also in the "West Wing" and "ER." She began work as a model but eventually found her way into acting in the mid-nineties. Since "CSI," Jorja has mainly been seen on smaller projects and tv movies and was most recently in the futuristic film "3022."
Though she may not be a familiar, on-screen face today, Jorja is also the co-founder of a production company called Seafox Productions as well as a human and animal rights activist. In 2021, Fox reprised her role as Sara Sidle in the spinoff "CSI: Vegas."
Jorja Fox – Then
Sara Sidle didn't just join the "CSI" team, she swooped in like a badass detective ninja. Initially a recurring character, she quickly clawed her way to becoming a mainstay for the final five seasons. With a backstory that would make even the toughest detectives flinch, Sara brought a gritty edge to the show.
Her forensic skills were sharper than a finely honed scalpel, making her an indispensable member of the team. Fans couldn't get enough of her! They went wild, spinning fanfiction tales that would make Sherlock Holmes jealous. Sara Sidle became a true audience darling, leaving a trail of crime-solving excitement and delighted fans in her wake.
Louise Lombard – Now
Originally from London, Louise Lombard is a versatile actress who began her career in tv movies and on BBC TV shows like "The House of Elliot," a period series about two sisters who start their own hat-making business. In addition to "CSI," Louise has also appeared on the silver screen in the film "Hidalgo" but since then has remained mostly on tv.
She was most recently in the "Lethal Weapon" TV series but will also appear on the big screen again in the film "After We Collided." In 2023, Lombard was in the casts of movies such as Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer" and the fifth installment of the "After" franchise: "After Everything."
Louise Lombard – Then
The character of Sofia Curtis, portrayed by actress Louise Lombard, made a memorable entry into the world of "CSI" during its fifth season. Originally on the path toward a career as a detective, Sofia's skills caught the attention of the CSI unit, leading her to join their ranks. As her involvement deepened, Sofia became an integral part of the main cast, captivating audiences with her dedication and tenacity.
Her journey within the series reached its conclusion during the eleventh season, leaving a lasting impact on the "CSI" universe. Sofia Curtis's character evolution showcased the dynamic and evolving nature of the show, keeping viewers engrossed with each passing season.