Introduction

In a candid discussion on Jesse Tyler Ferguson’s podcast, “Dinner’s on Me,” Patrick J. Adams, best known for his role as Michael James Ross on the legal drama “Suits,” opened up about his difficult decision to leave the show. Having starred in the series for seven seasons alongside Gabriel Macht's Harvey Specter, Adams’s departure raised questions, especially as he returned briefly for the final episodes.

Struggles with Mental Health

Adams reflected on his struggles, stating, “I wasn’t taking good care of my mental health and I was drinking too much [at] the end of Season 7.” He described himself as being in a challenging emotional space, feeling “pretty miserable” and “depressed,” attributing much of his coping to unhealthy habits that strained his personal relationships. “I would numb myself to deal with my insecurity and fears, and they just weren’t working,” he confessed.

Turning Point

The turning point for Adams came when he realized the impact of his lifestyle on his role as a father. “I think I should stop drinking probably, because I don’t wanna be that dad,” he emphasized. He believes that quitting drinking was the best decision he made for himself and his family, vital for his personal renewal and the well-being of those around him.

Reflections on ‘Suits’

The hit series “Suits” aired from 2011 to 2019, totaling 134 episodes, and experienced a resurgence in popularity after it became available on Netflix last year. Notably, as the show entered its eighth season, Adams grappled with the notion of returning solely for financial gain. After consulting with his mother, who advised against continuing for reasons other than passion, he chose not to return, stating, “The only reason to stay was… money.”

Standing by His Decision

Despite occasional bittersweet thoughts about what his co-star Macht earned in the later seasons, Adams firmly stands by his choice: “I never regretted the decision for a second. It was the right thing for my marriage. … It was time.”

Exciting News for Fans

In exciting news for fans, the “Suits” franchise will be revived with a new spinoff series titled “Suits: LA,” set to premiere on February 23, 2025, on NBC. Gabriel Macht is confirmed to reprise his role as Harvey Specter in a recurring capacity. Meanwhile, Adams has embraced his connection to the series by co-hosting a “Suits” rewatch podcast alongside his former co-star Sarah Rafferty.

Looking Back

Looking back at his experience on “Suits,” Adams reflects with a sense of understanding and compassion for himself. He acknowledges the remarkable journey he shared with the talented cast and crew, saying, “[I’m able] to be kinder to myself and realize how amazing this entire group of people were.”

Conclusion

Stay tuned as both Adams and the “Suits” franchise continue to evolve in exciting new ways!