When it debuted in 1993, crime drama “NYPD Blue” turned David Caruso, who played main character John Kelly, into a star. But after just one season, Caruso reportedly demanded a huge pay increase, and the New York City tabloids treated the gossip of the increasingly contentious contract negotiations like a sub-plot in the ongoing drama. Four episodes into the second season, Caruso left to pursue what turned out to be an ill-considered movie career. TV Guide included Caruso’s “I quit” moment in a roundup of top TV blunders.
10 Most Epic “I Quit” Moments
Drama Cop-Out: David Caruso, NYPD Blue
Full List
10 Epic I Quit Moments
- Runway Runaway: Steven Slater, JetBlue
- Band Grandstanding: Joey DeFrancesco, Renaissance Hotel
- Sign Language: Adam, Taco Bell
- Getting Graphic: Anonymous Designer
- Tundra Turnaround: Sarah Palin, Governor of Alaska
- Strike Out: Gil Meche, Kansas City Royals
- Drama Cop-Out: David Caruso, NYPD Blue
- Play a Tiny Violin: Jake DeSantis, A.I.G. Financial Services
- #IQuit: Jonathan Schwartz, Sun Microsystems
- All-Natural Angst: Anonymous, Whole Foods