“NCIS” Season 21 has brought back a major original character for a special Ducky tribute episode honoring the late cast member David McCallum. Michael Weatherly reprised his role as Tony DiNozzo in the episode’s closing moments. Weatherly celebrated Tony’s return to “NCIS” by sharing a behind-the-scenes photo, clearly enjoying his comeback to the procedural. However, he also dropped another hint on social media that could have even greater implications for the series’ future.
In an Instagram live session, later reposted by TikToker @sophdinozzo, Weatherly revealed, “As Brian Dietzen knows, there is going to be a surprise Cote de Pablo thing, but I am not allowed to talk about it, and Brian has been a part of it. I think it’s going to blow people’s minds because she does not do this stuff.”
This vague reference to a “Cote de Pablo thing” suggests that de Pablo may reprise her role as Ziva David on “NCIS” at some point. It appears Dietzen, who plays Jimmy Palmer on the series, will be involved, possibly interacting with Ziva for her anticipated return. Weatherly concluded by teasing, “Cote will be making an appearance. I tease that she will be making an appearance very soon.”
Cote de Pablo’s return could set up the Ziva and Tony spinoff
It’s understandable that Michael Weatherly might be aware of a potential return for Cote de Pablo on “NCIS.” The characters of Tony and Ziva received a “happily ever after,” living together in Europe to raise their daughter. Tony managed to return to the States to honor Ducky, so Ziva making a similar trip is plausible.
The timing is perfect: a new Tony and Ziva “NCIS” series has been announced, with Weatherly and de Pablo returning to their roles. Tentatively titled “NCIS: Europe,” the show will eventually premiere on Paramount+. Tony is already at the forefront of fans’ minds, and Ziva’s return to “NCIS” could serve to set up the new show. A future episode might even act as a backdoor pilot, encouraging fans to follow the couple’s new adventures on Paramount+.
Ziva’s return to “NCIS” could answer many lingering questions, such as why she didn’t return with Tony initially. The couple might be facing trouble in Europe, and, given their shared responsibility of raising a child, things could escalate quickly. Ziva might need Jimmy’s assistance for her own case, potentially enticing more “NCIS” fans to subscribe to Paramount+.