### Michael Weatherly Reveals Surprising Inspirations Behind NCIS’ Tony DiNozzo
NCIS’ Tony DiNozzo may seem unique, but actor Michael Weatherly drew inspiration from several well-known actors, including a former co-star. Weatherly played the cheeky, film-loving agent Tony DiNozzo for 13 seasons, leaving the show with his and Agent Ziva David’s (Cote de Pablo) daughter Tali. With Weatherly and de Pablo set to reunite in the upcoming spin-off NCIS: Tony and Ziva, the duo also teamed up for the new podcast NCIS: Off Duty.
The podcast explores the early days of the CBS police procedural, with Weatherly discussing how he developed his character. He revealed that creator Don Bellisario once threatened to “replace” him due to unsatisfactory performances. In response, Weatherly began experimenting with his portrayal of DiNozzo.
“I needed to amuse myself and tell stories that connected with me,” Weatherly explained. Over two years, he pushed the boundaries, making DiNozzo increasingly inappropriate, vain, and filled with movie references. He even covered his dressing room mirrors to avoid focusing on his appearance, poking fun at his background in soap operas.
Weatherly drew inspiration from other actors, including his former Dark Angel co-star Jensen Ackles, who played the flirtatious Alec. He also looked to Cary Grant, Tom Hanks, and Alec Baldwin from *Glengarry Glen Ross* for ideas. “I would do Tom Hanks, I would do Alec Baldwin… whatever came into my mind to amuse myself, and pretty much p*** off everyone I was working with,” Weatherly admitted.
Fans can catch the NCIS franchise on CBS and Disney+.