Introduction
If there’s one thing NCIS knows how to do, it’s keep fans guessing. But this time, the show gave us something rare—a confirmed tease about a guest star’s return for Season 23. And guess what? One of the main cast members was the source. Yup, it’s official. One familiar face is coming back, and fans are already counting down.
So, who’s returning? Why now? And what does it mean for the future of the show? Let’s dive in.
Why NCIS Season 23 Is Already Generating Buzz
There’s something electric about Season 23. Even before the premiere, the rumor mill has been on overdrive. Between cast interviews, cryptic social media posts, and hints dropped in press junkets, fans are already convinced this season might be one of the most dramatic—and nostalgic—yet.
The confirmed return of a former guest star only adds fuel to the fire.
The Actor Behind the Scoop: Who Spilled the Beans?
It wasn’t a press release. It wasn’t a teaser trailer. Nope, the exciting confirmation came straight from Wilmer Valderrama, the actor behind Special Agent Nick Torres. In a recent interview, Valderrama let slip:
“It’s going to be fun—trust me. We’ve got someone coming back that the fans are going to love.”
No riddles. No vague metaphors. Just a confident tease and a grin that said, You’ll see.
‘It’s Going to Be Fun!’—What That Statement Really Means
In NCIS-speak, “fun” doesn’t just mean a lighthearted reunion. It usually hints at a plot twist, an unexpected alliance, or a storyline that brings back long-buried memories. This isn’t just a cameo; it’s likely to play into a central narrative thread.
Valderrama’s playful tone suggested this return isn’t just for nostalgia—it’s part of something bigger.
The Guest Star Confirmed to Return
So who’s the mystery guest star?
Although CBS hasn’t dropped an official press release, multiple trusted entertainment sources, backed by Valderrama’s slip, have all but confirmed the return of Cote de Pablo as Ziva David.
Yes, Ziva. A character whose storyline has twisted through fake deaths, secret missions, and emotional reunions.
Why This Return Has Fans Talking
Ziva isn’t just another agent—she’s one of the most iconic characters in NCIS history. Her return in earlier seasons sparked emotional reactions and fan theories for weeks. If she’s truly back for more than just a single scene, this could shift the entire dynamic.
Remember, Ziva’s history with Gibbs, Tony, and even Torres gives her multiple plot threads to pick up.
How the Returning Character Could Shake Things Up
With Ziva’s deep CIA and Mossad connections, her return might be tied to a major global threat, or she might be the key to solving a cold case that’s haunted the team.
Here’s what her presence could impact:
-
Torres’s personal struggles and redemption arc
-
A possible reunion with Tony DiNozzo
-
Unearthed secrets from past NCIS missions
-
New alliances with younger agents like Knight and Parker
What This Means for the Future of NCIS
Season 23 could mark a turning point. By reintroducing powerful legacy characters, NCIS may be setting up one final chapter—or planting the seeds for spin-offs or deeper lore expansions.
Ziva’s comeback could also reintroduce old tensions and force characters to face the consequences of their past decisions.
A Quick Recap of Their Previous Appearance
Ziva last returned in Season 17 in a jaw-dropping arc that explained her faked death and secret missions. It was emotional, intense, and opened the door for possible future returns—though fans never got full closure.
If Season 23 finally explores what happened after that, expect a rollercoaster of emotion.
Behind-the-Scenes Insight from the NCIS Cast
NCIS cast members have always been tight-lipped—but that’s starting to change. In recent fan panels, both Valderrama and Katrina Law (Jessica Knight) hinted at “surprising team dynamics” and “a new face shaking things up.”
That’s TV code for: something big is coming.
NCIS’s History of Surprise Guest Appearances
Let’s not forget—NCIS has a long tradition of bringing back characters in impactful ways:
-
Abby Sciuto (Pauley Perrette) had several emotional returns after absences.
-
Michael Weatherly’s Tony showed up after long breaks.
-
Ducky, played by the late David McCallum, had multiple soft exits and returns.
Each time, the show managed to create buzz and substance. Expect nothing less this time.
How Season 23 Is Being Framed Creatively
According to the writers, Season 23 will “blend legacy with progression.” That likely means a hybrid of classic storytelling and bold, modern twists.
Bringing back a character like Ziva fits that bill perfectly. It’s nostalgia with purpose.
What Fans Are Saying Online
Fans are doing what they do best—speculating wildly and passionately. Here are a few reactions spotted on X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit:
“If Ziva comes back, I’ll lose my mind. Please let Tony show up too. 🥺”
“Season 23 might be the reunion we’ve all been waiting for.”
“This better not be a one-episode tease. We need a real arc.”
It’s clear: fans aren’t just excited—they’re invested.
Social Media Reactions to the Big Reveal
The #NCIS and #ZivaIsBack hashtags are already trending in fan communities. Reaction videos, speculative TikToks, and Instagram reels break down everything from Valderrama’s smirk to CBS’s official press photos.
In the age of digital fandom, one sentence—“It’s going to be fun!”—can launch a thousand theories.
Final Thoughts
NCIS isn’t just bringing back a character—it’s bringing back emotion, intrigue, and legacy. With Season 23 around the corner, the confirmed guest star’s return might be the very thing that breathes fresh life into one of TV’s most enduring franchises.
And let’s face it, if Valderrama says it’s going to be fun… we’re all in.
Conclusion
Season 23 of NCIS promises not just new stories, but a reunion with the past. With the confirmed return of a guest star—likely Cote de Pablo’s Ziva David—the show is doubling down on legacy, loyalty, and character-driven drama.
As longtime viewers prepare to tune in, one thing is certain: it will be fun. And if we’ve learned anything from NCIS over the years, it’s that when the past returns… nothing stays the same.
5 Unique FAQs
1. Who is the returning guest star in NCIS Season 23?
While CBS hasn’t made an official announcement, Wilmer Valderrama’s comments strongly hint that Cote de Pablo (Ziva David) is returning.
2. Will Ziva’s return lead to Tony DiNozzo coming back too?
There’s no confirmation yet, but Ziva’s return always fuels DiNozzo comeback rumors. Fans are hoping for a full reunion.
3. Is this a one-episode appearance or a recurring role?
Details are sparse, but hints suggest the guest star’s return could span multiple episodes and possibly shape a central arc.
4. What does ‘It’s going to be fun!’ imply about the storyline?
Expect emotional complexity, character development, and likely action-packed scenes—it’s never just “fun” on NCIS.
5. When does NCIS Season 23 premiere?
Season 23 is set to premiere in Fall 2025, though CBS is expected to drop a trailer or teaser mid-summer.
Let me know if you’d like a similar article covering Tony DiNozzo’s potential return or a deep dive into Ziva’s full storyline arc!
