The anticipation is killing us, right? NCIS: Tony & Ziva is coming, but it’s not here yet, and let’s be real—you need your fix. If you’re a die-hard fan of the chemistry, tension, and action that Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David brought to our screens, this wait feels like an eternity. But fear not, friend—we’ve got you covered.
Here’s a curated list of 8 gripping, character-driven TV shows that’ll scratch that NCIS itch while you countdown to the new spin-off. Whether you’re into intelligence agencies, crime-solving duos, slow-burn romance, or globe-trotting spy games, this list is packed with goodies.
So grab a snack, get cozy, and let’s dive into the shows that’ll make your Tony & Ziva withdrawal a whole lot easier.
8 Must-Watch TV Shows Before NCIS: Tony & Ziva Arrives
1. Alias — For the Spy Drama & Female Powerhouse Vibes
Why You’ll Love It
Jennifer Garner’s Sydney Bristow is everything: smart, dangerous, vulnerable, and deeply human. Think Ziva, but with more wigs and double lives.
The Hook
This show delivers action-packed missions, covert ops, and heart-pounding personal drama. You’ll find yourself glued to each episode, just like you were with Ziva’s undercover missions.
2. Castle — If You Miss Tony’s Sarcasm & Witty Banter
Why You’ll Love It
It’s got that crime-solving with sexual tension formula down to a science. Castle and Beckett have Tony & Ziva’s flirtatious, “will-they-won’t-they” vibe in spades.
The Hook
This series is a delicious blend of murder mysteries and romantic tension, with just the right amount of humor.
3. The Blacklist — For Intrigue, Secrets & International Thrills
Why You’ll Love It
Raymond “Red” Reddington is as unpredictable as he is brilliant. If you love the mystery and danger around Ziva’s Mossad background, this show will suck you in fast.
The Hook
Each episode peels back another layer of secrets, much like NCIS did with Ziva’s past.
4. Bones — For That Crime-Drama With Heart
Why You’ll Love It
Dr. Temperance “Bones” Brennan and FBI agent Seeley Booth are the OG crime-fighting couple. The banter, the tension, the slow-burn romance—it’s all here.
The Hook
It mixes science, suspense, and sparkling chemistry. Sound familiar?
5. Person of Interest — For Action-Packed Missions & Shadowy Governments
Why You’ll Love It
A former CIA operative teams up with a tech genius to prevent crimes using a mysterious machine. It’s high-stakes, emotionally layered, and full of moral dilemmas—just like the best of NCIS.
The Hook
The themes of trust, loyalty, and redemption will have you thinking about Tony and Ziva every step of the way.
6. Covert Affairs — For the International Spy Drama
Why You’ll Love It
Annie Walker is a CIA operative pulled into a world of espionage, betrayal, and romance. It’s like watching Ziva’s solo missions, but with even more flair.
The Hook
The exotic locales and secret missions are the perfect stand-in while we wait for Tony & Ziva to globetrot again.
7. Hawaii Five-0 — For the Action & Brotherhood
Why You’ll Love It
If you’re missing the team dynamic from NCIS, this show brings back that camaraderie—with beach vibes and high-speed chases.
The Hook
McGarrett and Danno’s dynamic will remind you of Tony’s bromances, while the overall tone keeps it serious with a side of fun.
8. Chuck — For the Perfect Blend of Spy Drama & Comedy
Why You’ll Love It
Chuck is a regular guy thrown into the spy world. The humor, the danger, the awkward romance—it all feels like a lighter NCIS spin-off with emotional depth.
The Hook
There’s also a love story that will give you the same slow-burn satisfaction you’re dying to get more of with Tony & Ziva.
Bonus: Shows With Similar Vibes You Might Love
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Leverage — For team dynamics and high-stakes heists
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Quantico — For fast-paced FBI drama
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Criminal Minds — For profiling and team intensity
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Jack Ryan — For globe-trotting CIA action
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Blindspot — For tattoos, secrets, and covert operations
What Makes These Shows Perfect for NCIS: Tony & Ziva Fans?
Strong Character Chemistry
If Tony and Ziva’s back-and-forth made your heart race, these shows all offer central characters with crackling chemistry.
Global Stakes & Intrigue
Many of these series take you beyond borders, echoing Tony and Ziva’s new adventure across Europe.
Layers of Emotion
It’s not just the explosions—it’s the emotional arcs that keep us hooked. These shows deliver drama that hits right in the feels.
Countdown to NCIS: Tony & Ziva — What We Know So Far
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Filming begins late 2025
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Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo are producing
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Set primarily in Europe
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Expected release in 2026
So yes… we’re going to be waiting for a while. But with these picks, you won’t feel like you’re in a content drought.
How to Binge Like a Pro Until Then
Set the Mood
Dim the lights, make your favorite snacks, and put your phone on Do Not Disturb.
Watch With Friends
Find other NCIS fans and make it a weekly watch party.
Dive Into Fandom
Fan fiction, Reddit threads, theories—get deep into the universe while you wait.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Wait in Misery
Let’s face it—we’re all counting the days until Tony & Ziva return. But the good news? You can still enjoy that same thrill, emotional depth, and chemistry in the meantime.
These shows aren’t just placeholders—they’re worthy series that will pull you in and keep you guessing, just like your favorite NCIS moments did. So while we eagerly await the DiNozzo-David reunion, grab that remote and start watching.
You’ll thank me later.
FAQs
Q1: When is NCIS: Tony & Ziva set to premiere?
A: It’s expected to debut sometime in 2026, with filming slated for late 2025.
Q2: Will Gibbs or other NCIS characters appear in the spin-off?
A: No official word yet, but cameo rumors are flying! Keep an eye out.
Q3: Is NCIS: Tony & Ziva a limited series or ongoing?
A: It’s being developed as a limited series, but success could open doors to more seasons.
Q4: Are any of the recommended shows available on Netflix?
A: Yes! Shows like The Blacklist, Bones, and Covert Affairs are available on major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video.
Q5: Do I need to watch all of NCIS before the spin-off?
A: Not necessarily—but watching Tony & Ziva’s journey in NCIS will make the new series so much more rewarding.
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**✨ Thank you for reading! If you’re a true NCIS fan, share this article with your squad so no one has to suffer the wait alone. Let’s binge smart, stay hyp
