I can’t get enough of NCIS. It’s one of my favorite shows, one that I can put on and binge-watch on a lazy weekend away from the laptop. There is so much that this iconic CBS military drama offers, from great acting to action that is movie-grade material. However, as much as I love Gibbs (Mark Harmon), there is another NCIS character that truly made the series as great as it was: the mysterious and badass Ziva David.
Portrayed by Cote de Pablo, Ziva left an indelible mark on the series. First introduced to the audience as an agent of the Kidon unit of the Mossad in Season 3’s “Kill Ari (Part 1),” Ziva came to NCIS first as a liaison officer, and then as a full NCIS agent in Season 7. Some of NCIS’s best and most tension-filled episodes involved the illustrious Ziva, and if you’re just getting on the NCIS bandwagon (which you really should have already been a part of), here are the most essential episodes you should watch to get a better understanding of one of the best agents in the series.
Ziva David isn’t just another character from NCIS—she’s an icon. Played by Cote de Pablo, Ziva’s blend of sharp wit, unmatched combat skills, and hidden vulnerability made her unforgettable. Whether it was her complicated relationship with Tony DiNozzo, her loyalty to Gibbs, or her battles with personal demons, Ziva carried some of the show’s most powerful moments. But which episodes truly capture her essence? Let’s dive into the 10 most essential Ziva episodes of NCIS, ranked—episodes that shaped her story, left fans gasping, and solidified her place as one of the most legendary characters in TV history.
1. “Kill Ari: Part I & II” (Season 3, Episodes 1 & 2)
Ziva’s debut was anything but ordinary. Arriving as the half-sister of Ari Haswari—the man who murdered Kate Todd—Ziva instantly left her mark. Viewers were stunned when she shot Ari to save Gibbs, setting the tone for her fierce loyalty. These episodes aren’t just introductions—they’re game changers.
2. “Judgment Day” (Season 5, Episodes 18 & 19)
As the team faced devastating losses, Ziva’s loyalty to Gibbs and her place within the NCIS family became clearer. Her resilience during this emotional storm proved she wasn’t just a replacement for Kate—she was her own force.
3. “Aliyah” (Season 6, Episode 25)
If there’s one word to describe this episode, it’s intense. Ziva’s loyalty to her Mossad roots clashes with her growing ties to NCIS, forcing her to make impossible choices. Her emotional tension with Tony in this episode left fans both heartbroken and intrigued.
4. “Truth or Consequences” (Season 7, Episode 1)
The rescue of Ziva from a Somali terrorist camp is one of the most iconic NCIS moments ever. Tony and McGee’s desperate mission to bring her home showcased how much she meant to the team. Watching Ziva survive unimaginable torture only solidified her strength.
5. “Cloak” & “Dagger” (Season 6, Episodes 23 & 24)
Ziva’s undercover mission in these episodes showed just how dangerous and fearless she could be. Her chemistry with Tony hit a high point, leaving fans buzzing about their slow-burn romance.
6. “Shabbat Shalom” (Season 10, Episode 11)
This heart-wrenching episode tore fans apart. The death of Ziva’s father, Eli David, left her devastated. For the first time, viewers saw Ziva stripped of her armor, dealing with raw grief. It was one of Cote de Pablo’s most powerful performances.
7. “Past, Present, and Future” (Season 11, Episode 2)
Ziva’s farewell episode is still one of the most talked about moments in NCIS history. Her bittersweet goodbye with Tony—filled with unspoken love—was both satisfying and heartbreaking. Fans knew they were watching the end of an era.
8. “Berlin” (Season 10, Episode 21)
Tony and Ziva’s journey to find Ilan Bodnar took them to Europe, sparking some of the most memorable Tiva (Tony + Ziva) moments. The chemistry, the danger, and the intensity made this a fan favorite.
9. “Family First” (Season 13, Episode 24)
Even though Ziva wasn’t physically present, this episode shook fans to their core. News of her presumed death in a mortar attack—and the shocking reveal of Tali, her daughter with Tony—changed everything. It cemented Ziva’s story as one of legacy and sacrifice.
10. “Daughters” (Season 16, Episode 24)
Ziva’s jaw-dropping return had fans screaming. After years of believing she was gone, seeing her step out of the shadows was the comeback of a lifetime. This cliffhanger reminded us that Ziva will always be a part of NCIS history.
Why Ziva’s Episodes Still Matter
Ziva’s storylines weren’t just about action or espionage. They touched on identity, loyalty, family, and love. Her journey from Mossad assassin to trusted NCIS agent resonates with fans because it’s ultimately about transformation.
She wasn’t perfect—far from it. But her flaws made her human. Her relationships, especially with Gibbs and Tony, revealed her softer side and gave fans moments they’ll never forget.
Ziva and Tony: The Heart of the Story
While Ziva had countless standout episodes, many fans would argue that her chemistry with Tony DiNozzo was the heartbeat of her time on the show. Whether it was witty banter, stolen glances, or that unforgettable goodbye, their slow-burn romance elevated her storyline.
Gibbs and Ziva: A Surrogate Father-Daughter Bond
Gibbs and Ziva shared one of the most unique dynamics in the series. He wasn’t just her boss; he was her anchor. Their quiet understanding and mutual respect made every scene between them feel authentic and heartfelt.
The Legacy of Ziva David
Ziva isn’t just remembered for her fight scenes or sharp one-liners. She’s remembered because she grew. She found a family, fell in love, and fought for her place in the world. For fans, her episodes represent some of the best storytelling NCIS has ever delivered.
Final Thoughts
Choosing only ten episodes barely scratches the surface of Ziva’s impact on NCIS. Each of these moments shows a different side of her—warrior, daughter, friend, and mother. Whether you’re rewatching the series or diving in for the first time, these episodes are the ultimate Ziva watchlist.
FAQs
1. Why did Ziva leave NCIS in Season 11?
Cote de Pablo chose to step away for personal reasons, though the show left the door open for her character’s return.
2. Did Ziva and Tony ever get together?
Yes, though much of their relationship happened off-screen. The reveal of their daughter, Tali, confirmed their love story.
3. Was Ziva really dead in NCIS?
Fans were led to believe she died in a mortar attack, but later seasons revealed she survived.
4. What made Ziva different from other NCIS characters?
Her Mossad background, fierce independence, and emotional complexity set her apart, making her one of the most layered characters.
5. Will Ziva return to NCIS again?
While nothing is guaranteed, her surprise comeback in Season 16 proved anything is possible in the NCIS universe.
