The official casting update for NCIS: Tony & Ziva doesn’t include any familiar faces from the main NCIS series, but there are still a few characters we’d love to see alongside Tony and Ziva. The new spinoff, now filming in Europe, stars Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo reprising their iconic roles as Anthony DiNozzo and Ziva David. While fans hoped to see some old faces from the NCIS universe, the latest update confirms that the show will feature a fresh, internationally diverse cast instead. However, there’s still room for a few guest appearances, and these original NCIS characters would be perfect additions.
Abby Sciuto
Pauley Perrette’s Abby Sciuto has been absent from the NCIS universe since season 15, but NCIS: Tony & Ziva could be the perfect setting for her return. Although the new series doesn’t have a forensic scientist in its regular cast, Abby could easily step in to help her old friends. The idea of Abby lending her expertise to Tony and Ziva, even in a small cameo, is exciting—especially since Perrette wouldn’t have to work with Mark Harmon, with whom she had a well-known feud. This fresh start in a new setting might be just what fans need to see Abby back in action.
Jimmy Palmer
As a longtime friend of Tony and Ziva, Jimmy Palmer’s presence in the new series feels overdue. Whether in a simple video call or a more significant role, Jimmy could offer his medical expertise when the team needs it most. With no medical examiner listed in the official cast, Palmer’s skills could prove vital, and fans would love to see him reunite with Tony after their brief moment together in the 2024 Ducky tribute episode.
Timothy McGee
Timothy McGee’s technical expertise could be crucial in NCIS: Tony & Ziva, especially if the storyline involves a threat to Tony’s security firm. McGee, who worked closely with Tony and Ziva during their time on NCIS, could be a valuable asset in their investigation. A reunion of Gibbs’ original team would be a nostalgic treat for fans, and McGee’s presence would elevate the stakes of the new series.
Leroy Jethro Gibbs
Since Mark Harmon’s departure from NCIS in season 19, fans have eagerly awaited his return. The Tony & Ziva spinoff, centered on trust, would be the perfect platform for Gibbs to reappear. Given his deep bond with both Tony and Ziva, Gibbs could be pulled out of retirement to help them, adding an emotional layer to the storyline. His return would resonate with longtime fans and bring closure to his character’s arc.
Eleanor Bishop
Eleanor Bishop has a unique connection to Tony and Ziva, having discovered Ziva was alive in season 16. Her NSA background could prove invaluable in the new series, especially with the introduction of Jonah, a former NSA agent, now Secretary General of Interpol. Bishop’s expertise in counterintelligence could strengthen the team’s efforts, and her interaction with new characters like Jonah and Martine would add depth to the story.
Director Leon Vance
Although Tony and Ziva no longer officially work for NCIS, Director Leon Vance could still play a crucial role in the spinoff. His connections at the highest levels of government could provide the duo with the support they need. Whether facilitating McGee or Jimmy Palmer’s involvement or directly aiding Tony and Ziva, Vance’s presence would add a sense of continuity and authority to the series.
Ari Haswari
Ari Haswari, Ziva’s half-brother and a key villain from the early seasons of NCIS, could return in a unique way. Although Ari was killed by Ziva in season 3, his ghost could reappear, allowing Ziva to confront her past. This could tie into themes of trust and family, providing an emotional subplot for Ziva as she navigates her new life with Tony and their daughter, Tali.
These characters could enhance NCIS: Tony & Ziva, providing fans with a blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling while deepening the new series’ connection to the original NCIS universe.
