NCIS Season 24: Tony DiNozzo Returns Without Ziva, and Iowa Fans Feel the Missed Opportunity

Michael Weatherly is heading back to NCIS for Season 24, but his longtime on-screen partner Cote de Pablo won't be joining him. The showrunner's recent comments confirm that Ziva David and daughter Tali will stay away from Washington, ending hopes for a long-awaited reunion on the flagship series.

For 13 years, fans have waited to see Tony and Ziva together on the original show. That wait will continue.

Tony DiNozzo Returns to NCIS Without Ziva David

Weatherly's comeback comes after NCIS: Tony & Ziva was canceled following just one season on Paramount+. The spinoff, which launched in 2025, continued the couple's story after their departures from the flagship. Now Weatherly will bring Tony back to CBS for a season-long arc.

Showrunner Steven D. Binder revealed details about Tony's life since the spinoff ended, but he also delivered disappointing news for longtime viewers: Ziva won't be returning to Washington alongside Tony.

This marks the latest chapter in a long history of near-misses for the beloved characters. Weatherly last appeared in NCIS Season 21 for a tribute episode honoring Dr. Donald