Dean Winters is known for his work on the police procedural "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." As one of the show's original cast members, it was a stunning turn of events when his character Detective Brian Cassidy decided to leave the squad.

Unfortunately, Winters’ contract with HBO was the source of the issue that ultimately led to his departure from "Law & Order: SVU." In an interview with The A.V. Club, Winters said, "I was on the show for the first season, but then I had to leave because I had a contract with HBO, and there was a bit of a dispute."

Winters left the show on such good terms, however, that the cast was able to advocate for his return. He appeared in a total of 18 additional episodes, with his last appearance to date coming in the 16th episode of Season 20, titled "Facing Demons."