CBS is bringing Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David back to American soil for NCIS Season 24, a major shift for the beloved couple who have called Europe home for over a decade. Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo will reprise their fan-favorite roles, with Weatherly returning to the flagship series for a season-long story arc.
The move follows the cancellation of the couple's spinoff, NCIS: Tony & Ziva, after just one season on Paramount. Now, the franchise is folding the characters back into the main series with new creative freedom.
Why Tony and Ziva Are Moving Back to the United States
Showrunner Steven D. Binder revealed that the couple's daughter, Tali, is now attending boarding school in the United States. Tony and Ziva have relocated to stay close to her, with Tony opening a satellite office for his private security firm in Washington, D.C.
According to Binder, Tony gets pulled into NCIS action when he catches wind of something happening at the agency. Ziva and Tali, living a couple of hours away, will not appear in Season 24, but their proximity opens new storytelling doors.
Binder joked that Ziva is hanging out in the town where her daughter is, doing a little helicopter parenting, and Tony's helicopter parenting in D.C.
How the NCIS Storytelling Rules Have Changed
Previously, Tony and Ziva's European residence made it difficult to write them into the flagship series. Their return to the D.C. area eliminates that barrier. Tony can now appear whenever the story calls for it, without needing a major event to justify his presence.
Since leaving the show, Tony only returned once, for the Season 21 tribute to Dr. Donald Ducky Mallard following David McCallum's passing. Ziva made a brief arc in Season 17. Now, with the family stateside, the couple could become recurring characters in the mold of Tobias Fornell.
What This Means for the Future of the Franchise
Binder says Ziva and Tali won't appear in Season 24, but the door is open for future installments. If the family stays in the area, fans could see more of Tony and Ziva than ever before.
NCIS Season 24 airs on CBS. The series continues to be a ratings powerhouse, and the return of Weatherly adds a familiar face to the mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Ziva appear in NCIS Season 24?
No. Showrunner Steven D. Binder confirmed that Ziva and Tali will not appear in Season 24, though they are living in the area and could appear in future seasons.
Why was NCIS: Tony & Ziva canceled?
Paramount canceled the spinoff after one season. The characters are now being integrated back into the flagship NCIS series.
When does NCIS Season 24 premiere?
NCIS Season 24 airs on CBS. The show continues its long-running success as a staple of network television.
Photo: CBR