In 2013, Cote De Pablo left her role as Ziva David on NCIS early into Season 11 after eight seasons as a series regular. By the end of Season 13, her character was presumed dead after an explosion in Israel. However, in a surprising twist in the Season 16 finale, Ziva was revealed to be alive, making several appearances in Season 17.
Now, De Pablo is set to reunite with co-star Michael Weatherly for an NCIS spinoff focused on Ziva and Tony DiNozzo, exclusively for Paramount+ subscribers. However, in a recent Instagram Live video with Brian Dietzen (who plays Jimmy Palmer), Weatherly teased fans with news of De Pablo’s return to the flagship show.
While unable to disclose specifics, Weatherly hinted at a “surprise Cote de Pablo thing” involving Dietzen, promising it will “blow people’s brains.” He confirmed De Pablo’s upcoming appearance, praising her appearance and happiness, suggesting she will return soon.
Although not officially confirmed for NCIS Season 21, Weatherly’s revelation strongly suggests De Pablo’s return. In Season 17, Ziva reunited with Tony and their daughter Tali, and presumably returned to the U.S. for Ducky’s memorial service. With Season 21 consisting of only 10 episodes and having aired its fifth episode, Ziva’s return is expected in the coming weeks.
It remains unclear if De Pablo’s appearance is intended to set up the spinoff or is simply a fun visit. Meanwhile, the spinoff, which received a 10-episode order, will follow Tony and Ziva on the run after his security company is attacked, with both De Pablo and Weatherly serving as executive producers.
While a premiere date for the spinoff is pending, fans can catch new episodes of NCIS on Mondays at 9 pm ET, followed by NCIS: Hawai’i. Additionally, NCIS: Sydney has been renewed for Season 2, and NCIS: Origins, centered around Leroy Jethro Gibbs, is slated for the 2024-2025 TV season on CBS.
