David Caruso’s Journey: From TV Fame to 3 Divorces & “Cancerous” Behavior — See His Transformation in Photos

From explosive exits to tabloid headlines and a reputation that followed him off-screen, David Caruso’s life has been as turbulent as any of his dramatic roles. Here’s a look at his transformation through the years.

After early TV appearances, a shocking departure from NYPD Blue, and a career-defining role on CSI: Miami, Caruso became one of television’s most recognizable — and controversial — figures.

But behind the sunglasses and slick one-liners was a personal life marked by failed marriages, backstage battles, and a quiet retreat from Hollywood.

1981

Caruso made one of his earliest TV appearances in the ABC movie Crazy Times. In his mid-20s, he had a youthful, clean-cut look — bright red hair, boyish charm, and an intense gaze that hinted at the star he’d become.

1994

By 1994, Caruso was a household name as Detective John Kelly on NYPD Blue. With fiery red hair and a brooding presence, he embodied the show’s gritty realism and earned a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Drama Series. He was also Emmy-nominated — hailed as television’s next big thing.

1995

Fresh off his Golden Globe win, Caruso made a bold move: he left NYPD Blue after just one season, chasing a film career. The decision drew harsh criticism. Newsday called him “an ordinary showbiz greedy rat.”

He landed leads in Kiss of Death and Jade — both flopped. He even won a Razzie for Worst New Star, a stark fall from grace.

2000

After the film failures, Caruso reemerged leaner and more composed. He took a supporting role in Proof of Life alongside Russell Crowe and Meg Ryan — not a breakout, but a step toward redemption.

2004

Caruso returned to TV triumph as Lieutenant Horatio Caine on CSI: Miami. With his cool demeanor, sharp suits, and iconic sunglasses-before-one-liner routine, he became a pop culture phenomenon.

The role was a major comeback — and made him a global star.

2010

By 2010, Caine’s commanding presence remained, but age softened Caruso’s features. His red hair had faded, and lines framed his face. CSI: Miami continued, but its peak had passed.

2015

The show ended in 2012, and Caruso vanished from public view. But in 2015, revelations resurfaced — not about a new role, but about his past.

In his memoir, NYPD Blue co-creator Steven Bochco described Caruso as a “malcontent” with outrageous demands: a 38-foot trailer, a $100,000-per-episode paycheck, and a personal development exec.

“Caruso’s behavior was cancerous,” Bochco wrote. “He was volatile, moody, sullen… emotionally unavailable. He enjoyed being the source of all discontent.”

Bochco recalled daily clashes with co-creator David Milch, who was battling heart issues. “Every time I’d talk to Caruso, he’d shut down like a sullen teenager.”

2025

On September 23, 2025, Caruso was spotted running errands in Los Angeles — one of few public appearances in over a decade. His once-bright red hair had lightened, and his look reflected a quiet life.

Fans reacted with surprise and concern. “What?!?!” one wrote. “I hope he’s alright,” said another.

Since CSI: Miami ended, Caruso opened an art gallery and a clothing store — both closed. Sources say he now lives quietly off an estimated $35 million fortune.

Yet he hasn’t forgotten his legacy. Inside his garage, framed photos of CSI: Miami and Proof of Life still hang — a tribute to the roles that defined him.

A Private Life of Complexity

Caruso’s personal life has been equally turbulent. He’s been married three times and is father to three children.

His first marriage (1979–1984) was to actress Cheri Maugans. That same year, he married actress Rachel Ticotin; they had a daughter, Greta. The marriage ended in 1987.

His third and longest marriage, to producer Margaret Buckley (1996–2004), ended in divorce. He then had a relationship with Liza Marquez, mother of his two youngest children. It ended in a legal battle, with Marquez accusing him of emotional abuse and infidelity.

She claimed he ended it by serving her with a paternity suit and a note: “Reconciliation is not an option.” Caruso denied the claims; the matter was settled.

David Caruso’s path was unpredictable — early fame, public missteps, a stunning comeback, then silence. Though he’s stepped away from acting, his complex legacy endures.

He wasn’t just a star.
He was a storm — intense, unforgettable, and impossible to ignore.