The premiere of the NCIS spinoff included the first three episodes, and NCIS: Tony & Ziva has remained in the Paramount+ top 10 TV shows ever since. It’s also earned praise through review aggregator sites like Rotten Tomatoes. There’s no question that the combination of nostalgia for fan-favorite characters and the action-thriller storyline is working.

Since Cote de Pablo and her NCIS: Tony & Ziva costar Michael Weatherly left the original NCIS series, however, there has been interest in seeing them return there. Episode 2 of the spinoff minces no words when it comes to Ziva being in any kind of law enforcement environment, like NCIS, again.The first episode of NCIS: Tony & Ziva shows Ziva working at a language school before her daughter’s life is threatened, and she literally runs across Paris to help Tali (Isla Gie). It’s the next episode that reveals that Ziva does not just work at the school, or even run it, but that she founded it.

In NCIS: Tony & Ziva episode 2, “No Friend Of Mine,” the story flashes back to Tali’s seventh birthday party, where Ziva is still uncomfortable in her daughter’s life. She is trying to ease her way back into the lives of Tony and Tali, and it’s hard for her to see that the two have had a whole life without her for over four years.
Part of that life involves Tony having become friends with Interpol agent Henry Rayner-Hunt (James D’Arcy). Henry puts in a good word for Tony with Interpol, backing his friend’s new cybersecurity venture. When Henry broaches the idea of Ziva joining Tony’s business, she is quick to say no.

Ziva first tells Henry about her desire to open a language school in Paris, saying she is “all done chasing bad guys, thank you.” When Henry tries to push her on the idea of working with Tony again, Ziva’s demeanor completely changes as she snaps, “I’d say to take the hint, but I’m not hinting.”

Ziva is still deep in the throes of the trauma of spending four years living on the run and fighting to survive on a daily basis. She was taught to be a soldier and an assassin from a young age, and went right from working for Mossad and her father to working as an investigator for NCIS.

For years, NCIS fans have been captivated by the fiery chemistry between Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) and Ziva David (Cote de Pablo). The duo, affectionately known as “Tiva,” brought a unique spark to the show, making their story one of the most beloved in TV history. But recent episodes and cast interviews have dropped subtle — and not-so-subtle — hints that Ziva’s story might finally be over, with Cote de Pablo unlikely to return. In this article, we’ll explore why fans are convinced the door has closed on Ziva, what the show has revealed about Tony and Ziva’s future, and why Cote de Pablo might not step into her iconic role again.

The Legacy of Tony and Ziva in NCIS

Tony and Ziva weren’t just characters; they were the heart of NCIS during its golden years. Their relationship evolved from playful banter to deep emotional connection, giving fans a mix of tension, humor, and heartbreak.

For many, their bond represented more than just TV drama — it became the reason they tuned in week after week.

Cote de Pablo’s First Exit From NCIS

Back in 2013, Cote de Pablo shocked fans when she announced she was leaving NCIS. The news left viewers devastated, especially since her character’s arc with Tony was left unresolved.

While her exit was sudden, Cote made it clear that it wasn’t an easy choice. She cited “personal reasons” and hinted at creative differences with the show’s direction.

Ziva’s “Death” and the Shockwave It Caused

When Ziva was presumed dead in a farmhouse explosion in Israel, fans thought that was the end. Tony’s emotional farewell, where he discovered he had a daughter with Ziva, seemed like the final chapter.

But in classic TV fashion, NCIS revived the character years later, revealing she had faked her death. It was a twist fans loved, but it also created confusion about her long-term role.

The Surprise Return of Ziva

In 2019, Cote de Pablo stunned fans by reprising her role as Ziva in Season 17. Her return brought hope that she and Tony would finally reunite on-screen.

Unfortunately, the reunion never fully materialized. While Ziva had a few storylines, she eventually left again, heading off to Paris to reunite with Tony and their daughter Tali — off-screen.

Hints From the NCIS Writers’ Room

Writers have sprinkled subtle clues suggesting Ziva’s journey is complete. The storyline neatly wrapped up with her heading to Paris, and Tony’s occasional mentions of their life together signal closure rather than a comeback.

For longtime fans, it feels like the writers are signaling: “The Tiva story is beautiful, but it’s done.”

Michael Weatherly’s Return vs. Cote de Pablo’s Absence

Michael Weatherly recently teased his return to the NCIS universe after his Bull run ended. However, Cote de Pablo has remained silent about any possible comeback.

This silence speaks volumes. While Weatherly seems eager, de Pablo’s lack of involvement strongly suggests she may have officially moved on.

Cote de Pablo’s Career Beyond NCIS

Since leaving NCIS, Cote has been selective with her roles. She’s pursued smaller projects and stayed away from the spotlight.

It’s possible she wants to be remembered as Ziva without diluting the impact of her performance with endless returns.

The Emotional Closure Fans May Not Get

Fans have long dreamed of a full on-screen Tony and Ziva reunion. But at this point, it looks like their story will remain off-screen.

The bittersweet truth? Sometimes the best endings happen in the imagination of fans, not on TV.

Fan Reactions to the Ziva Rumors

Social media has exploded with mixed emotions. Some fans feel betrayed, while others believe it’s the right time to let go.

Memes, tributes, and fanfiction are keeping the “Tiva” flame alive, even if the show has moved on.

Why Cote de Pablo May Never Return

Several factors suggest her departure is final:

• She left once due to creative issues.

• She returned briefly but didn’t stay.

• She has shown little interest in revisiting the role.

Put simply, Ziva’s story arc has already been tied up neatly.

Could NCIS Pull Another Surprise?

Never say never with NCIS. The show has brought characters back from the dead before. But realistically, the odds are slim unless Cote herself has a change of heart.

The Impact of Ziva’s Legacy on NCIS

Even if she never returns, Ziva’s legacy is untouchable. She remains one of the strongest female characters in TV crime drama history.

Her presence elevated the show and cemented its global popularity.

NCIS Moving Forward Without Ziva

The show continues to thrive, introducing new characters and storylines. While nothing can replace Ziva, the series has proven it can evolve and survive beyond her departure.

The Bottom Line: A Farewell to Ziva

Fans may never see Cote de Pablo as Ziva again, but her impact is everlasting. Sometimes, saying goodbye allows the story to stay perfect in memory rather than risk being watered down.

Conclusion

The hints are clear: Cote de Pablo is unlikely to return as Ziva David in NCIS. While this reality stings for fans, it also allows the beloved “Tiva” story to remain untouched — a legendary romance that ended on a high note.

Even though fans won’t see her on-screen again, Ziva’s influence on NCIS will never fade. She’s not just a character — she’s a legacy.