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.
Marg Helgenberger – Then
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."
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 – Now
Throughout his career, David Caruso was typecast in authoritarian roles such as policemen and therefore, will most likely be best known for his role as Horatio Caine. Surprisingly, despite being one of the most iconic characters in the CSI franchise, David Caruso's career flickered out after "CSI: Miami" wrapped in 2012.
It is reportedly both expensive and challenging to bring Caruso onto a project, so it appears that he remains more or less a retired actor, not appearing in any well-known projects since 2012. Since then, he has been involved in art and is a co-owner of the South Miami clothing store Steam on Sunset.
Emily Procter – Then
Emily Proctor's journey in the entertainment industry commenced with humble beginnings, gracing the screens of lesser-known TV shows and small-scale TV movies. However, it was her breakthrough moment that arrived with the impactful film "Leaving Las Vegas," where she shared the spotlight with the acclaimed Nicolas Cage.
Soon after, Proctor's remarkable talent found its true home on the hit series "CSI: Miami" as the captivating character of Calleigh Duquesne. With her intelligence and bilingual proficiency, Calleigh's expertise in ballistics earned her the moniker "bullet girl." Throughout the show's captivating run, Calleigh's beauty and brilliance resonated with viewers, leaving an indelible mark that endured from the show's inception to its unforgettable series finale.