Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo Reunite on NCIS: Old Sparks, New Rules

Two familiar faces are making their return to TV screens in Paramount+’s NCIS: Tony & Ziva. Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo, known for their roles as Tony and Ziva on NCIS, are back in action, this time in an international spinoff that focuses on serialized storytelling and second chances for these soulmates and parents. This reunion has been a long time coming and is something that both Weatherly and de Pablo were passionate about bringing to life as executive producers and stars.

Reflecting on their journey with these characters over the years, Weatherly and de Pablo share insights about how their return to these roles has been a unique experience. Weatherly recalls the early days of filming NCIS, where the cast was like a tight-knit family, blurring the lines between work and personal life. Returning 20 years later, he notes the stark contrast in the adventure this time around. Meanwhile, de Pablo reminisces about the special bond the cast shared during the original run of the show, which they didn’t fully appreciate at the time. For both actors, revisiting these characters now has brought a sense of healing and reconciliation.

The new series takes a different approach from its procedural predecessor, focusing more on emotions and character relationships rather than standalone crime-solving episodes. Weatherly and de Pablo see this as an opportunity to explore the complexities of Tony and Ziva’s relationship in a more authentic way, inviting the audience to reflect on their own experiences with love and partnership.

In a rapidly evolving TV landscape, the timeless theme of love remains a constant. Weatherly emphasizes that love is at the heart of the show, and the evolution of TV storytelling allows for more nuanced and truthful exploration of relationships. With de Pablo’s dedication to authenticity in her performance, the emotional honesty of the series shines through.

As producers on the new series, Weatherly and de Pablo were deeply involved in shaping the direction of the show. Their passion for the project, built on years of shared history, inside jokes, and personal growth, drove them to create a series that resonates with fans and captures the essence of their characters.

Looking back on the success of NCIS and its various spin-offs, Weatherly and de Pablo credit the foundation laid by creator Don Bellisario and star Mark Harmon for establishing a world that balances seriousness with humor and ensemble chemistry. Their commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing creativity has endeared them to fans and paved the way for the long-lasting success of the franchise.

In the end, coming back together for NCIS: Tony & Ziva feels like a reunion with an old friend. Weatherly describes it as the lightning bolt moment that brings a project to life, while de Pablo sees it as a collaboration that creates something bigger than themselves. Their reunion signifies not just a return to familiar roles, but a rekindling of the magic that made their characters and their connection so beloved by fans.