🎬 Which ‘NCIS’ Stars Are Willing to Return – And Who’s Said Goodbye for Good?
The NCIS franchise has been a fan favorite for over two decades, with characters coming and going throughout its long run. But the big question on every fan’s mind is: Will we ever see some of our favorite former stars return?
From Mark Harmon to Cote de Pablo, Michael Weatherly, and Pauley Perrette, many former NCIS actors have spoken out about whether they’d consider coming back. Some are open to the idea, while others have made it clear they’ve moved on.
So, which stars could make a comeback, and who’s officially done with NCIS? Let’s break it down!
👤 Mark Harmon: Could Special Agent Gibbs Return?
Mark Harmon, the legendary actor behind Leroy Jethro Gibbs, left NCIS in Season 19. While his exit wasn’t a complete farewell (the character is still alive and retired in Alaska), fans have been eagerly waiting for a possible return.
🔹 What Mark Harmon Has Said About a Comeback
Harmon has remained cryptic about his future with the show. In an interview, he mentioned that Gibbs isn’t necessarily gone forever, but he’s enjoying his time away from the role.
“I’m not retired. The character is out there, and who knows what the future holds?”
His statement leaves the door open, and with NCIS: Origins exploring a young Gibbs, fans are hoping for at least a cameo.
🔹 Will Gibbs Ever Return?
It’s possible! Unlike some actors who have closed the door, Harmon seems open to revisiting Gibbs if the right storyline comes along.
🌟 Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo): Could He Rejoin NCIS?
Michael Weatherly, who played the charming Tony DiNozzo, left NCIS in Season 13. Since then, fans have been begging for his return.
🔹 What He’s Said About Coming Back
Weatherly has hinted at the idea of reprising his role, especially after his CBS show Bull ended.
“There’s always a chance. Tony and Ziva’s story isn’t finished.”
🔹 Why a Comeback Makes Sense
With NCIS frequently referencing Tony and Ziva, it wouldn’t be a stretch to see them return in a guest appearance—or even a spin-off.
🔥 Cote de Pablo (Ziva David): Will She Return Again?
Cote de Pablo’s exit from NCIS in Season 11 devastated fans. But after years away, she shocked audiences by returning in Season 17. Could it happen again?
🔹 What Cote de Pablo Has Said
Cote has expressed her love for the character but also shared concerns about how Ziva was originally written off.
“If the story is right, I’d love to come back.”
🔹 Could a Tony & Ziva Spin-off Happen?
Rumors continue to swirl about a Tony-Ziva reunion project. If CBS gives it the green light, we may see Ziva again!
🛑 Pauley Perrette (Abby Sciuto): Is She Done for Good?
Abby Sciuto was one of the most beloved NCIS characters, but Pauley Perrette’s departure in Season 15 came with controversy.
🔹 Why Pauley Perrette Won’t Return
Perrette has been vocal about her difficult experience on set, claiming she felt unsafe.
“I will never return to NCIS. Ever.”
With such strong words, it’s clear Abby Sciuto won’t be making a comeback.
🎭 Sasha Alexander (Caitlin Todd): Any Chance for a Return?
Sasha Alexander’s character, Kate Todd, was shockingly killed in Season 2. While dead characters rarely return, NCIS has used flashbacks and hallucinations before.
🔹 What Sasha Has Said
She has no regrets about leaving but has been open to appearing in special episodes.
Would she ever return for a flashback? Maybe, but a full-time return is impossible.
🎥 Other NCIS Stars: Who’s In & Who’s Out?
🔹 David McCallum (Ducky Mallard)
McCallum sadly passed away in 2023, meaning we won’t see Ducky again—except in old footage.
🔹 Lauren Holly (Jenny Shepard)
Jenny died in Season 5, and Lauren Holly has moved on. She’s not expected to return.
🔹 Rocky Carroll (Leon Vance)
Still active on NCIS, and likely staying for now.
🔹 Sean Murray (Tim McGee)
He’s still with the show but has hinted that his time might be running out.
📝 Final Thoughts: Who’s Most Likely to Return?
While some stars have shut the door forever (Pauley Perrette, Sasha Alexander), others have left it open (Mark Harmon, Michael Weatherly, Cote de Pablo).
Here’s the ranking of possible returns:
- Most Likely: Michael Weatherly, Cote de Pablo
- Maybe: Mark Harmon
- Unlikely: Sasha Alexander, Pauley Perrette
With NCIS still going strong, we may not have seen the last of these fan-favorite stars.
❓ FAQs
1. Could Mark Harmon return for NCIS Season 22?
It’s possible! Harmon has hinted that Gibbs’ story isn’t over, but nothing has been confirmed.
2. Is there a Tony and Ziva spin-off in the works?
There have been rumors, but CBS has not announced an official project yet.
3. Why won’t Pauley Perrette return to NCIS?
She has publicly stated she felt unsafe on set and has no interest in returning.
4. Did Michael Weatherly confirm he’s coming back?
Not officially, but he has teased the idea multiple times.
5. Will NCIS bring back dead characters?
While full-time returns are unlikely, the show sometimes uses flashbacks or dream sequences to bring back past characters.
That’s a wrap! Which NCIS star do you hope returns? Let’s discuss! 🚔💥
