One of the most recognizable faces on “CSI” is Marg Helgenberger’s, Catherine Willows. The character of Catherine Willows had a rich backstory. This iconic character was actually based on a real-life forensic scientist, Yolanda McClary, who worked for the Las Vegas Police Department for 26 years. This made the role feel even more realistic.
Marg Helgenberger received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe award nominations for her portrayal of Catherine Willows but eventually left to pursue other projects and was last seen in season twelve. Around the same time that she was joining “CSI,” Helgenberger starred in movies such as “Species,” “Species II,” and “Erin Brockovich.”
Jorja Fox – Then
Sara Sidle didn't just join the "CSI" team, she swooped in like a badass detective ninja. Initially a recurring character, she quickly clawed her way to becoming a mainstay for the final five seasons. With a backstory that would make even the toughest detectives flinch, Sara brought a gritty edge to the show.
Her forensic skills were sharper than a finely honed scalpel, making her an indispensable member of the team. Fans couldn't get enough of her! They went wild, spinning fanfiction tales that would make Sherlock Holmes jealous. Sara Sidle became a true audience darling, leaving a trail of crime-solving excitement and delighted fans in her wake.
Jorja Fox – Now
Jorja Fox is a veteran of tv show dramas having starred not only in "CSI" but also in the "West Wing" and "ER." She began work as a model but eventually found her way into acting in the mid-nineties. Since "CSI," Jorja has mainly been seen on smaller projects and tv movies and was most recently in the futuristic film "3022."
Though she may not be a familiar, on-screen face today, Jorja is also the co-founder of a production company called Seafox Productions as well as a human and animal rights activist. In 2021, Fox reprised her role as Sara Sidle in the spinoff "CSI: Vegas."
Marg Helgenberger – Now
After "CSI," Marg Helgenberger had a relatively slow-paced career with a couple of films and TV movies. These included "Almost Friends" and "A Dog's Journey," among others. Outside of acting, she also works to raise awareness for cancer research and is passionate about environmental activism.
Presently you can see her back in the dramatic crime genre playing Judge Lisa Benner on the TV show "All Rise." At one point, fans weren't sure if Helgenberger would ever return to the "CSI" family. But then, she reprised the role of Catherine Willows as a series regular in the second season of "CSI: Vegas."
David Caruso – Then
Probably the most recognizable face of "CSI: Miami" is Horatio Caine, played by David Caruso. Let's face it, when most people think of CSI, in general, they think of this iconically-named protagonist. The character of Horatio (also called "H") became central to each episode and the series as a whole and was the head of the forensic lab.
Most notable was his trademark of slipping on his sunglasses while dropping a one-liner about the case featured in that episode. This move not only made Horatio Caine stand out to the audience on the screen but also became a popular parody in pop culture.