Shocking Moments That Got Actors Kicked Off Their Shows

Sometimes, Hollywood stars cross lines so skewed that there’s no coming back. We’re delving into the most shocking incidents that resulted in the permanent removal of actors and TV hosts from their shows. From hurtful remarks to full-on brawls, these meltdowns ended with career-altering firings that left fans—and sometimes the stars themselves—completely stunned.

1. Jon Polito — “Homicide: Life on the Street”

The writers specifically created Jon Polito’s character, Steve Crosetti, for him. However, the network’s pressure for changes led to Polito’s temporary departure from the show. Not convinced, he publicly criticized showrunner Tom Fontana. The fallout? Crosetti’s character took his own life off-screen in season three. Polito later mended ties with Fontana, making a cameo in the farewell movie for the series in 2000.

2. Asan N’Jie — “Emmerdale”

Asan N’Jie’s promising role on “Emmerdale” took a nosedive in 2019 when he clashed with “Hollyoaks” actor Jamie Lomas at the TV Choice Awards. After threats and an alleged physical altercation, ITV suspended and then fired him. N’Jie apologized, but his character, Ellis Chapman, was recast, and Aaron Anthony took over the role until he left in 2022.

3. Jay Thomas — “Cheers”

Jay Thomas joined “Cheers” as Eddie Lebec, Carla’s love interest, played by Rhea Perlman. But things soured in 1989 when he called the role “brutal” on his radio show, implying he didn’t enjoy kissing Perlman. The writer wrote his character a quick and brutal death when Eddie got crushed by a Zamboni, with added drama when it was revealed Eddie was a polygamist.