It seems like they would have stayed with the show to the end. This is not to be disrespectful, but it's hard to imagine them finding a better, steadier gig. Most actors would kill to be a part of a successful long running show.

The same question also goes for Marcy. Why did she leave? With some actors and characters, it's obvious why they might leave. But with Pete, Denise and Marcy -- no so much.

From what I read....

1) Caroline McWilliams was planning to marry Michael Keaton and move to NY, and:
2) Didi Conn got bored with the role and left the show. Because Denise was leaving, Pete would have to leave too. I had heard that Ethan Phillips was not happy about this.

Now, this is what I remember reading a few years back. If something sounds wrong to someone out there, I trust that they will chime in. :)

Thanks BensonFan. McWilliams reason for leaving makes perfect sense. It's still tough to figure Conn's departure. It seems like it took about a decade before she got another long running gig. But if you're bored, you're bored.