Why did the original actress who played Colleen on Dr. Quin Medicine Woman leave the show?

Question

I don't remember hearing why she was replaced. If anyone knows why and what is she doing now?

Answer 1

this is from wiki:

Replacement of Erika Flores with Jessica Bowman

There were various cast changes of minor characters during the series. However, the most profiled change took place during the show's third season when the character of Colleen Cooper was recast halfway through the year. Unlike the other actors who signed 5 year contracts with the show, Erika Flores was hesitant. She held out for an increase in her salary and refused to sign a contract unless either she was offered a contract shorter than 5 years, or her salary could be increased. Rumors have circulated that Flores' father gave her an ultimatum to end her contract unless they offered her more money or he would cut her off financially. Flores has denied such rumors claiming that she left the series for personal reasons as well as to pursue other opportunities. Whatever the reasons, the actress was abruptly fired with little warning by CBS after the show declined to meet her requests. Beth Sullivan decided that she wanted the character to continue instead of being killed off or sent away. The decision to replace the actress halfway through a season is perplexing and has never been explained. However, it is speculated that the producers felt the switch should take place as soon as possible. As a result, Jessica Bowman was cast as the new Colleen in Flores' place after a desperate search for the right actress. Some of Erika Flores' fans were vocal in their anger over the change and wrote CBS demanding to know why the actress had been replaced

Answer 2

Dr Quinn was cancelled but she was pregnant with twins