
We often find ourselves wondering what happened to celebrities who once dominated the spotlight. One such name is David Caruso — an actor who was once a household name but eventually faded from public view.
Now 68 years old, Caruso looks quite different from how fans remember him during his heyday. Let’s take a closer look at his journey.
If the name David Caruso rings a bell, there’s a good reason. Anyone who watched TV in the 1990s or early 2000s likely remembers his face.
Born on January 7, 1956, in Forest Hills, Queens, New York, Caruso grew up in a single-parent household after his parents divorced. Despite the challenges, he was determined to carve out a place for himself in the entertainment industry.
Caruso’s early acting credits include appearances in Hill Street Blues, First Blood (1982), and An Officer and a Gentleman (1982). Though these roles were relatively minor, they allowed him to develop his craft and gain valuable experience.
His true breakout came in 1993 when he was cast as Detective John Kelly in the groundbreaking TV series NYPD Blue. The show quickly became a hit, earning Caruso widespread acclaim, a devoted fanbase, and even a Golden Globe nomination.

Although David Caruso’s time on NYPD Blue was brief—he left after just one season due to reported disputes over salary and creative control—it was certainly impactful. His sudden departure sparked backlash and is often viewed as a turning point that negatively affected his acting career.
Following his exit from the series, Caruso attempted to transition to film. He starred in movies like Jade (1995) and Kiss of Death (1995), but neither film found much success at the box office or with critics.
However, Caruso staged a major comeback in 2002 when he returned to television in CSI: Miami, taking on the iconic role of Horatio Caine. The series became a massive hit, running for ten seasons, with Caruso’s character known for his signature one-liners and calm, collected demeanor. This role firmly re-established him as a major figure in television.
In recent years, though, fans were surprised to see how much Caruso’s appearance has changed. Naturally, time has passed, and the actor, now in his late 60s, looks quite different from the man viewers remember on-screen. Since stepping away from acting after CSI: Miami ended, Caruso has largely stayed out of the spotlight, likely embracing a quieter, more private lifestyle.
There have been no public reports of health issues, so it’s safe to assume that his transformation is simply a reflection of natural aging.
Still, it’s always a pleasant surprise to catch a glimpse of a familiar face from the past. What are your thoughts on seeing David Caruso again after all these years?
Feel free to share this with fellow fans who might be curious about what he’s been up to!