The electric connection between Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo has been undeniable for years—a fact that their recent conversation at New York Comic Con on October 9, 2025, only confirmed. Fans of NCIS have followed the dramatic and heartfelt saga of Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David for over twenty years. These two characters have experienced love’s twists and turns, welcomed a child together, said emotional goodbyes, and reunited again, yet they still haven’t reached their perfect, happy ending. Off-screen, however, Michael and Cote share a close friendship that shines just as brightly, as was evident during the panel discussing the exciting return of Tony and Ziva in the Paramount+ spin-off series, NCIS: Tony & Ziva.
This new show picks up where the CBS original left off, focusing on Tony and his former partner Ziva now navigating life as parents to their teenage daughter in Paris. But, as with any good spy thriller, peace is fleeting. The duo quickly finds themselves embroiled in a dangerous chase across Europe, accused of orchestrating an enormous bribery scheme involving Interpol, raising the stakes high for their reunion.
For fans, this series marks a poignant reunion for the pair after six years apart—Cote departed NCIS in 2013 during its 11th season, and Michael followed two years later in season 13. During that time, the storyline revealed that Ziva had relocated to Israel and was presumed dead after an attack on her home. It also uncovered that she had secretly entrusted their daughter to Tony, who had left NCIS to raise her. In 2019, both characters briefly returned for a storyline that shocked fans by revealing Ziva was alive, reuniting with Tony off-screen in Paris.
The panel, hosted by Damien Holbrook, was a feast for fans eager to witness the genuine rapport between Michael and Cote. From Michael’s courteous habit of letting Cote step on and off the stage first to their playful banter and affectionate reminiscing, their enduring friendship was palpable and heartwarming—proof that their on-screen chemistry goes far beyond the camera.
A touching moment was when the pair shared hand-holding during their stories about their favorite memories, both on set and off. Cote recounted a scene from the new series where she was running from danger with Tony behind her protecting her—a line that prompted a humorous response from Michael about his slower pace being protective rather than sluggish.
Both actors expressed deep affection and respect for their characters, excited about the chance to explore more of their complex lives. Michael insightfully explained how difficult it is for Ziva to be separated from Tony, emphasizing her traumatic past and the layers of pain she carries beneath the surface. He contrasted this with Tony’s seemingly carefree exterior that hides his unresolved struggles. Cote’s reaction revealed just how thoughtfully these characters are portrayed by the actors.
The new series also introduces fresh faces, and Cote praised the way the cast has come together, describing it as an organic formation of a tight-knit family. She noted how laughter and shared experiences gradually created this special dynamic that both she and Michael were eager to cultivate, hoping their combined energies would spark something truly magical.
Offering a playful glimpse into their off-screen dynamic, Cote jokingly described Michael as an "interesting person" who can occasionally become unexpectedly silent—a side fans might not expect.
One of the more profound revelations came during a dinner conversation, where Michael and Cote reflected on how returning to their roles in NCIS had been surprisingly "healing". They both acknowledged that the new series allowed them to explore storylines and emotions that their long tenure on the original show never fully allowed. Thanks in part to fan enthusiasm, they found this fresh opportunity to delve into their characters deeply rewarding and meaningful.
But here’s where it gets controversial: does this producers' decision to revisit old characters so many years later enhance the story or dilute the original show’s impact? And can off-screen chemistry between actors always translate into on-screen magic, or is it sometimes just nostalgia? What do you think—are Tony and Ziva’s stories best when they stay apart, constantly teased, or should they finally get their long-awaited happily ever after? Share your thoughts below!
