Real Reason Sophia Bush Left Chicago P.D. Is Darker Than You Think: 'I Was Really, Really Unhappy'
Some actors leave their shows because their character dies, while others are replaced. However, some actors leave because they're unhappy with their roles and working conditions.
Every fan's nightmare is seeing a social media post from their favorite actor saying goodbye to a movie or show, especially before it officially ends.
Even after the runaway success of a series, the relationship between cast and creators can become strained and the demands on the actors can become strict.
Some actors, even leading ones, do not agree with such pressure and decide to leave the project, while others believe that they are gradually becoming hostages of their own roles and refuse to continue filming.
Sophia Bush's Exit from Chicago P.D. Was an Unexpected One
One of the most high-profile cases remains Sophia Bush's departure from Chicago P.D. Eight years have passed since the actress left the show., but interest in her character and her sudden departure has not waned.
Sophia Bush's Erin Lindsay was a homicide detective known for her compassion. Since Erin was the main female character on Chicago P.D. and has appeared in other shows in the franchise, her departure shocked fans, especially since there was no official comment at first.
The Actress Cited Unbearable Filming Conditions as the Reason for Her Departure
However, the actress then revealed on the Armchair Expert podcast how toxic the environment on set was and how physically grueling the filming conditions were:
“I quit because, what I've learned is I've been so programmed to be a good girl and to be a work horse and be a tug boat that I have always prioritised tugging the ship for the crew, for the show, for the group, ahead of my own health. My body was, like, falling apart, because I was really, really unhappy.”
According to the actress, she spoke to management about the harsh filming conditions, but no action was taken.
Another Chicago P.D. Lead Could Be One of the Reasons for Bush's Departure
Later, on the Drama Queens podcast, during a discussion about inappropriate behavior on set, the actress made the following comment:
“I don't know what I'm supposed to do that my next employers rebranded sexual assault with witnesses as 'anger management issues' in the press.”
Five months after Bush left Chicago P.D., NBC investigated her co-star, Jason Beghe, for anger issues after several complaints were filed about his behavior on set. The actor himself admitted that he has some anger issues and apologized to his colleagues.
Although the actress herself did not mention any specific names, it can be assumed that the comment was directed at Beghe, who ultimately became one of the reasons the actress decided to leave Chicago P.D. after the fourth season.
