Michael Weatherly Heads To Alcohol Program After DUI Charge; ‘NCIS’ Season 13 Leaving Series
Michael Weatherly's legal troubles are now behind him as the "NCIS" season 13 star pleaded no contest to the DUI charge. Meanwhile, after this season, DiNozzo will no longer be seen in the hit series.
As a result, the court judge sentenced him up to three years in probation as well as regularly attending a MADD or Mothers Against Drunk Driving program, particularly DUI classes.
According to its website, MADD "is the nation's largest nonprofit working to protect families from drunk driving, drugged driving and underage drinking. MADD also supports drunk and drugged driving victims and survivors at no charge."
"He has until June to complete everything," said TMZ.
Michael Weatherly was arrested for speeding back in November and when police officers checked him, his blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit of .08. He spent about 15 hours in jail and charged with a DUI.
Meanwhile, "NCIS" season 13 star Michael Weatherly has announced that he's leaving the series.
"Jail time was ruled out considering this was Weatherly's first offense. Although, he still has to undergo the program and probation, Weatherly could still have enough time to shoot for his role. NCIS is currently in the middle of its 13th season," reported Lawyer Herald.
In a series of posts in his Twitter account, Michael Weatherly wrote, "DiNozzo is a wonderful, quixotic character & I couldn't have had more fun playing him over the past 13 seasons. Les Moonves & CBS gave me the opportunity of a lifetime."
"I will miss the amazing crew & cast, who are like family to me, & to the fans all over the world - THANK YOU, it's been a fantastic ride!"
At this point, it's not clear if Michael Weatherly leaving "NCIS" season 13 is connected to his DUI charge. He has three children: a son from a previous marriage and two with wife Bojana Jankovic.
Michael Weatherly, however, will stay for all episodes of "NCIS" season 13.
