Michael Weatherly, known for his role as Tony DiNozzo in NCIS, first made his mark on television in an unexpected place—The Cosby Show. Before his NCIS days and even before his stint as Logan Cale in Dark Angel, Weatherly appeared in a non-speaking role on the controversial sitcom.
The Cosby Show, which aired from 1984 to 1992, centered around the Huxtable family and starred Bill Cosby as Dr. Cliff Huxtable. Weatherly’s brief appearance came in the seventh series, where he played an unnamed character who was Theo Huxtable’s roommate.
Although Weatherly’s role was minor and non-speaking, it marked the beginning of his television career. He later gained fame for his portrayal of Tony DiNozzo in NCIS, a role that catapulted him into the spotlight.
Despite The Cosby Show’s initial popularity, the legacy of the series has been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding Bill Cosby. In 2018, Cosby faced allegations of rape, sexual assault, and harassment from over 60 women. He was found guilty in a high-profile trial but later had his conviction overturned in 2021.
While Weatherly’s appearance on The Cosby Show may be a footnote in his extensive career, it serves as a reminder of his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a household name in television.
