Susie Chang was killed off on Rizzoli & Isles mainly as a creative decision to raise the emotional stakes and open up new storylines, not because of any public behind‑the‑scenes scandal with the actress.

Why Was Susie Killed Off on Rizzoli & Isles?

What Happens to Susie in the Show

In Season 6, in the episode “Misconduct Game,” Susie Chang is found dead after suffering a fatal head wound not long after leaving a crime scene.

The investigation first makes it look like she may have gone corrupt, with a secret space in her apartment containing cash and stolen evidence.

As Jane and Maura dig deeper, they realize Susie was being framed and was never actually dirty.

Her murder is ultimately tied to a corrupt politician, Samuel Langdon, who is involved in an art‑forgery scheme and needs to erase loose ends and discredit the forensic department.

So, in‑universe, Susie is killed to:

  • Frame the forensics lab for mishandling a case.
  • Cover up Langdon’s broader criminal activities and campaign ambitions.

The Real‑World Reason: Writer Choice

Outside the story, there’s no widely reported feud or controversy; the exit is described as a creative choice by the writers and showrunner Jan Nash.

Tina Huang has said she knew in advance and that the production handled it professionally and with sensitivity because Susie was such a fun, lovable character.

From a storytelling standpoint, killing Susie:

  • Injected shock and danger into Season 6.
  • Gave the main cast a heavy grieving arc and emotional material to play.
  • Raised the stakes by showing that even beloved supporting characters weren’t “safe” from the larger conspiracy in the plot.

Some critics and fans have argued that the choice was painful and disappointing, especially because Susie was a rare, well‑liked Asian‑American woman on a mainstream procedural.

Blog and fan commentary often frame it as an example of using a woman of color’s death to fuel other characters’ development.

Quick Fact List

  • Episode of death: Season 6, “Misconduct Game.”
  • Cause in the show: Fatal head wound; part of a broader plot to frame the forensics department.
  • Mastermind: Corrupt politician Samuel Langdon, tied to art forgery and a gubernatorial bid.
  • Real‑world reason: Deliberate story move by writers/showrunner to raise stakes and create new emotional arcs; handled as a professional, planned exit for Tina Huang.

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