With long-running shows, it’s not uncommon for cast members to leave, sparking curiosity among fans as to the multitude of reasons. This is especially true for viewers of The Resident, who are eager to know why favorite characters like Dr. Mina Okafor and Nurse Nic Nevin left the show.
Here’s everything you need to know about why Nic and Mina decided to leave their long-running characters behind.
Why did Shaunette Renée Wilson’s Mina Okafor leave The Resident After Season 4?
Shaunette Renée Wilson, who portrayed Dr. Mina Okafor on Fox’s medical drama The Resident, left the show after Season 4 for several reasons.
In the storyline, Mina decides to return to Nigeria due to a conflict with Dr. Cain, who tried to get her deported for testifying about his medical malpractice. Her boyfriend, Dr. AJ Austin, also stays in Atlanta to care for his mother who was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. This further motivates Mina to leave and start fresh.
Outside the show, Shaunette Renée Wilson personally requested to leave. She approached the producers with her decision, and they agreed. They provided her character with a respectful sendoff. The producers honored her request, emphasizing their respect and appreciation for her contributions. They also kept the door open for her possible return in the future.
Why did Emily VanCamp’s Nic Nevin leave The Resident after Season 5?
Emily VanCamp decided to leave The Resident after Season 5 to focus on her family. In the October 5 episode, her character, Nic Nevin, died from injuries sustained in a car accident, marking her final appearance on the show.
VanCamp’s departure was influenced by the birth of her first child, Iris, with her husband, Josh Bowman. In an interview with Deadline, she explained that becoming a mother made her re-evaluate her priorities. Filming the show in a different city and the added challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which kept her away from her family for long periods, reinforced her decision to prioritize family over work.
She stated that this was a bittersweet moment for her, as she loved her time on the show, but her priorities changed after becoming a parent.