18 TV Actors Swapped Out During Their Shows

Sometimes, a TV show we love hits us with a surprise—an actor playing a familiar character suddenly changes. Whether it’s due to scheduling conflicts, creative choices, or personal reasons, these recasts can shake up a series and leave us adjusting to a new face in a beloved role.

From sitcoms to epic dramas, recasting happens more often than you might think. Below, we dive into 18 actors who were replaced mid-run, exploring why they left and how the new actors stepped in to keep the show going.

1. Ed Skrein

Ed Skrein played Daario Naharis in ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019), a charming sellsword and ally to Daenerys Targaryen. His confident performance set the tone for the character in season three.

Skrein left after just three episodes, citing political differences with the show’s team. Michiel Huisman took over as Daario in season four, bringing a different energy that leaned into the character’s growing role as a trusted advisor and lover.

2. Ross Butler

Ross Butler portrayed Reggie Mantle, the cocky jock in ‘Riverdale’ (2017-2023), during its first season. His take on Reggie was a solid foil to Archie Andrews.

Due to scheduling conflicts with ‘13 Reasons Why’, Butler couldn’t continue. Charles Melton stepped in for season two, making Reggie a fan favorite with his charismatic and layered performance through the show’s end.

3. Anita Barone

Anita Barone appeared as Carol, Ross’s ex-wife, in a single episode of ‘Friends’ (1994-2004). Her brief role introduced the character’s dynamic with Ross.

Barone left to pursue bigger roles, and Jane Sibbett took over as Carol for the rest of the series. Sibbett’s warm portrayal made the recast barely noticeable to most viewers.

4. Santino Fontana

Santino Fontana played Greg Serrano in ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ (2015-2019), a sarcastic love interest for Rebecca Bunch. His chemistry with the lead was a highlight in early seasons.

Fontana’s character was written out after season two, but Greg returned in season four, now played by Skylar Astin. Astin brought a lighter, more confident vibe, fitting the show’s meta humor about the recast.

5. Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose starred as Kate Kane, the titular hero in ‘Batwoman’ (2019-2022), during its debut season. Her intense performance set up the show’s gritty tone.

Rose exited amid reports of tough working conditions. Wallis Day took over as Kate, while Javicia Leslie introduced a new Batwoman, Ryan Wilder, who carried the series forward for two more seasons.

6. Conan Stevens

Conan Stevens played the fearsome Ser Gregor Clegane, aka The Mountain, in season one of ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011-2019). His imposing presence suited the brutal knight.

Stevens, primarily a stuntman, was replaced by Ian Whyte in season two, then Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson from season four onward. Björnsson’s massive build made The Mountain iconic in later seasons.

7. Lisa Robin Kelly

Lisa Robin Kelly brought Laurie Forman, Eric’s rebellious sister, to life in ‘That ’70s Show’ (1998-2006). Her wild energy defined the role early on.

Personal struggles led Kelly to leave after season three. Christina Moore stepped in for season six, playing a slightly tamer Laurie for a brief six-episode arc.

8. Jane Levy

Jane Levy portrayed Mandy Milkovich in the first season of ‘Shameless’ (2011-2021), a tough teen entangled with the Gallagher family. Her intensity fit the chaotic drama.

Levy left for a starring role in ‘Suburgatory’. Emma Greenwell took over as Mandy in season two, deepening the character’s emotional layers until her exit in season six.

9. Alexandra Krosney

Alexandra Krosney played Kristin Baxter, the eldest daughter in ‘Last Man Standing’ (2011-2021), during its first season. She brought a youthful edge to the single mom.

Creative differences led to Krosney’s departure. Amanda Fuller stepped in from season two, offering a more grounded take that carried through the series’ run.

10. Molly Ephraim

Molly Ephraim was Mandy Baxter in ‘Last Man Standing’ (2011-2021) for six seasons. Her witty performance made Mandy a standout in the Baxter family.

When the show moved to Fox after a cancellation, Ephraim’s other commitments prevented her return. Molly McCook took over, bringing a fresh spin to Mandy’s humor.

11. Janet Hubert

Janet Hubert played Aunt Vivian in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (1990-1996) for three seasons. Her vibrant energy anchored the Banks family.

A contract dispute led to Hubert’s exit, and Daphne Maxwell Reid stepped in from season four. Reid’s warmer take on Vivian carried the show to its finale.

12. Bailey Bass

Bailey Bass portrayed Claudia, the young vampire, in season one of ‘Interview with the Vampire’ (2022-present). Her haunting performance set a strong tone.

Bass left due to scheduling conflicts. Delainey Hayles took over in season two, bringing a new depth to Claudia’s tragic arc.

13. Jake T. Austin

Jake T. Austin played Jesus Foster in ‘The Fosters’ (2013-2018) for two seasons. His portrayal captured the teen’s struggles and growth.

Austin left due to creative differences over reduced screen time. Noah Centineo stepped in for season three, continuing Jesus’s story through the series’ end.

14. Aml Ameen

Aml Ameen played Capheus, a kind-hearted bus driver, in the first season of ‘Sense8’ (2015-2018). His warmth was central to the show’s global ensemble.

Creative differences led to Ameen’s exit. Toby Onwumere took over for the Christmas special and season two, maintaining Capheus’s hopeful spirit.

15. Dick York

Dick York was Darrin Stephens in ‘Bewitched’ (1964-1972) for five seasons. His comedic timing made the magical sitcom a hit.

Health issues from a back injury forced York to leave. Dick Sargent stepped in as Darrin, continuing the role until the show’s end with a different charm.

16. Shailene Woodley

Shailene Woodley played Kaitlin Cooper in the first season of ‘The O.C.’ (2003-2007). Her youthful energy suited the mischievous younger sister.

To match Kaitlin’s older age in later seasons, Willa Holland took over in season three, bringing a bolder, more rebellious vibe to the role.

17. Laura Benanti

Laura Benanti played Alura Zor-El, Kara’s mother, in the first two seasons of ‘Supergirl’ (2015-2021). Her regal presence fit the Kryptonian matriarch.

Benanti’s Broadway commitments led to her exit. Erica Durance, known from ‘Smallville’, stepped in for season three, offering a fresh take on Alura.

18. Alessandra Torresani

Alessandra Torresani played Ann Veal in the first season of ‘Arrested Development’ (2003-2019). Her bland persona suited the show’s running gag.

The role was recast with Mae Whitman, who leaned into Ann’s forgettable nature, making the character a comedic staple for later seasons.

Which TV recast surprised you the most, or did we miss one that stood out to you? Drop your thoughts in the comments!