This article is from the NYPD Blue FAQ, by Dave Chapman, Alan Sepinwall and Jeff Knapp with numerous contributions by others.
In Lawrence's estimation, the show's writers lost interest in
Sylvia once she and Andy got married. She started doing some
extra-curricular work, including a guest turn on "Caroline in
the City" that was so well-received that NBC decided to try to
build a sitcom around her. Realizing that her role on "Blue"
was going to remain limited, she decided to take the gig at
"Fired Up," which debuted in the spring of 97 and is on NBC's
fall schedule.
In order to secure her release from her "Blue" contract,
Sharon agreed to try to make herself available whenever the
writers need Sylvia to appear (which is why, for now, she's
still listed as a regular), but so far, she hasn't been needed
all that much, appearing less than half a dozen times in the
fourth season. The writers are explaining Sylvia's absence
from the squadroom by having her take a leave of absence from
work to care for baby Theo.
However, Sharon popped up briefly in the "Blue" season
premiere and is now listed as a guest star, which means her
appearances will be handled on a case-by-case basis. There are
plans for her to appear several times between now and season's
end.
 
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