It's been a busy off season for television, especially in casting news for long-running shows.

While there were few doubts that the "NCIS" cast would return, most of the other casting news this season has been full of surprises, especially on other CBS crime shows.

First, A.J. Cook was let go from "Criminal Minds." Then there were cast losses from the other CSIs: Liz Vassey from "CSI: Las Vegas," and Eddie Cibrian from "CSI: Miami."

But Melina Kanakaredes exiting "CSI: New York" has to be the biggest shocker of the summer. There were no rumors anyone was leaving the long-running show, moving from Wednesdays to Fridays in the fall. So losing one of the two leads was surprising.

Even more of a surprise is that Sela Ward, recently seen as a semi-regular on "House" in its first and second seasons, will step into Kanakaredes' shoes.

CBS's comment: We hoped Melina would return to 'CSI: NY' for another season, but we respect her decision to move on."

Kanakaredes was approached with a new deal, but there have been rumors that it was for a pay cut, which is in keeping with many of CBS's moves lately - clearing out high-priced talent in lower-rated if still "hit" shows, including the cancellations of "Cold Case" and "Without A Trace."

Marg Helgenberger just resigned with "CSI: Las Vegas," but stay tuned for who could be next.