Actor Tommy Chong disappeared from That 70’s Show because he landed himself in jail. He served a nine-month sentence for selling bongs. No one in the cast or crew of the show was very surprised. He was able to return to the show as Leo when he was released from jail.
The most riveting part of this ordeal was Tommy’s cellmate. He was in jail with none other than Jordan Belfort. Yes, Jordan Belfort aka the Wolf of Wall Street! Apparently, Chong was the major influence in pushing Jordan to write a book. Chong’s career was not hurt by his 9 months in jail, and he went on to take roles in Miami Vice, Dharma and Greg and Nash Bridges.
Meghan Markle on Suits
If you're a fan of the legal drama, Suites, you remember how Meghan Markle’s character, Rachel Zane, was written off the script by marrying her long-time love on the show, Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams), who was also leaving the show. But why was Markle in such a rush to leave the show? Well, to no one's surprise. It's she could marry her real-life prince, Prince Harry!
After her royal nuptials which took place on May 19 at Windsor Castle in England, she retired from acting altogether to focus on humanitarian work and of course, her new duties as the newest member of the British royal family. Well, the girl sure has her priorities straight.
Lawrence Tierney on Seinfeld
Lawrence Tierney appeared on Seinfeld as Elaine’s dad, Alton Benes. He was on the series for just one episode and was a pretty scary, rough and tough father figure. After his one episode, he was not asked back. Rumors swirled that he was not asked to come back because Jerry felt really creeped out by Lawrence, and he made him very nervous.
Some other rumors were that Lawrence was involved in some thefts and even violence. That could be why he made people nervous and why he probably would not be someone you want around you on set! We may never know the real reason, but all we know is that he was never asked back.
Lisa Robin Kelly on That '70s Show
Lisa Robin Kelly, known as Laurie Foreman on the show, was supposed to be one of the main characters of the That '70s Show teens. She was Eric's older sister who usually distracted Kelso and always mooched money from her parents. Things seemed promising for the young actress.
In season five, the actress reportedly left the show due to her struggle with alcoholism. To fans surprise, her character returned briefly in season six but played by a different actress. Sadly, Lisa Robin Kelly died in a rehab facility in 2013.
Topher Grace on That ’70s Show
Topher Grace was the main character on the show, That 70’s Show. He wanted to leave the show to take on other acting opportunities. The production team abided by his wishes and wrote it into the story that he was leaving for college. In actuality, Topher got offered a role in the movie Spiderman 3!
When Topher left That 70’s Show it really shook up the show! He was one of the driving forces of the show and a fan favorite. Everyone loved his character. Of course, everyone was happy for him and his role in Spiderman. However, his career pretty much fizzled out after Spiderman 3 flopped.