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 – 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.
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.
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."
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."