Gary Sinise is not closing the door on Hollywood just yet, but for now, he’s choosing what matters most: home. The CSI: NY star, admired for his screen presence and commitment to service, says he is open to acting again someday if the right role comes along. But at this stage in his life, staying close to his family and community is where his heart lies.
After stepping back from acting to care for his son Mac, who sadly passed away in 2024 after a long battle with cancer, Sinise has grown even more protective of his time and energy. For him, the right role would need to fit around his life, not the other way around.
“I was able to be there for him.” Gary Sinise is family first.
Gary Sinise open to Hollywood comeback under ‘right circumstances’
Sinise, who stepped back from his career to care for son who died from rare cancer in 2024, co-hosts the PBS National Memorial Day Concert
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When Sinise left the spotlight in 2019, it wasn’t because he had lost interest. It was because his family needed him. His son’s health took center stage, and Sinise was grateful that years of hard work in film and television gave him the financial freedom to step away.
“I was able to be there for him,” Sinise said. “The nursing care, the support, those aren’t things insurance always covers. Because of my career, I could give him what he needed.” That season reminded him what truly matters: being present when it counts most.
Gary Sinise does other things now, but is still open to the right role
Although he’s not chasing roles, Sinise has not completely closed the door on Hollywood. He still takes on short-term projects like paid speeches and narrations, which don’t pull him too far from home. These days, much of Sinise’s energy goes into the Gary Sinise Foundation, which he started in 2011 to support veterans, first responders, and their families. Although if a role fits his life today, he’s willing to consider it.
He has also talked with people in the industry about new opportunities. But any project would have to work with his current rhythm. “I’ve got five grandkids. I’m hoping for more,” he smiled. “I’ve done the years of being away. Now, I just want to be home more.” He’s also continuing his role as co-host of the National Memorial Day Concert on PBS, a tradition he has kept for 19 years. “It’s a chance to honor our fallen heroes,” he said. “That kind of remembrance matters. It keeps their sacrifice from being forgotten.”