### Michael Weatherly’s Heartfelt Departure from NCIS Revealed!
In a dramatic twist, Michael Weatherly bid farewell to his iconic role as Tony DiNozzo on *NCIS* at the close of its 13th season in 2016. While initially shrouded in mystery, Weatherly’s departure was later unveiled to be a blend of personal and professional motivations.
As one of the show’s original cast members, Weatherly confessed to feeling drained and yearning for fresh challenges. At a Television Critics Association event, he unveiled his new legal drama *Bull*, declaring that his time on *NCIS* had reached its natural conclusion. The grueling 12-hour workdays further fueled his decision.
Interestingly, Weatherly’s departure was also driven by matters of the heart, intricately tied to the on-screen romance between his character and Ziva David, portrayed by Cote de Pablo. De Pablo’s exit in season 11 left a void that profoundly impacted Weatherly, prompting him to reassess his tenure on the show.
Family also played a pivotal role in Weatherly’s decision, as he sought to prioritize time with his wife, Bojana Jankovic, and their children. Despite his exit, he tantalizingly hinted at the possibility of an on-screen reunion with de Pablo, especially after her character’s surprise return to the series.
Weatherly’s departure was just one in a series of notable exits from *NCIS*, with Pauley Perrette and Sasha Alexander also departing for various reasons. Yet, fans cling to hope for a future reunion, fueled by Weatherly’s cryptic social media posts. Until then, his departure remains etched in the annals of *NCIS* history as one of the most emotionally charged exits to date.
