Just another Kathy Griffin style play for publicity gone wrong.
It's really simple when you think about it.
You're a minor character in a somewhat popular TV show close to finishing it's run. Likelihood of getting a steady part like it again? Kinda low to none. Remember most TV actors, even good ones, only get at best ONE show they are a regular character in. In fact most actors and actresses NEVER have a regular gig like that. You otherwise have to live off of guest spots, an occasional movie role etc. Not an easy way to make a living.
It's rare you are in more then one successful tv show. William Shatner is one of the rare actors who headlined more than one show (Star Trek and TJ Hooker). But even he had to move to movies.
It's the bubble these people live it that gets them. They haven't a clue that what they do is a bad idea.