Ziva David's Return to NCIS Season 24 Could Finally Happen After Tony's Comeback

By John Damon | July 16, 2026

CBS is setting the stage for one of the biggest fan moments in NCIS history. With Michael Weatherly returning as Tony DiNozzo for a season-long arc in Season 24, the door is now wide open for Cote de Pablo to reprise her role as Ziva David. After their spinoff, NCIS: Tony & Ziva, was canceled after just one season, the flagship series is the natural home to continue their story.

Tony DiNozzo Returns to NCIS for Season 24

Weatherly confirmed at Comic-Con Midlands in Birmingham, United Kingdom, that his return will directly connect to the events of the canceled spinoff. He stated,

“I can tell you this: There is a definite connection between [Tony & Ziva] and the canon that that created within — there's not going to be retconning of like, oh, Tony & Ziva never happened.”

This commitment to continuity means fans can expect a seamless integration of the couple's recent adventures into the main storyline. Weatherly last appeared on NCIS in Season 21 for a tribute episode honoring the late David McCallum, who played Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard.

How Ziva's Return Could Work in Season 24

Ziva last appeared on NCIS in Season 17, after a shocking reveal that she had faked her own death. Her return arc in Seasons 16 and 17 remains one of the series' most memorable moments. With Tony now back at headquarters, the natural next step is to bring Ziva back as well. The spinoff ended with the couple agreeing to make a genuine attempt at a romantic relationship, a storyline the flagship can now fully explore.

For Iowa fans who have followed the series since its early days, this would be a long-awaited payoff. Tony and Ziva's slow-burn romance was a defining element of the show before it was cut short by her departure and his exit to raise their daughter.

NCIS Season 24 Faces Major Storylines Beyond the Couple

The new season will also address Season 23's cliffhanger, where Nick Torres (Wilmer Valderrama) faced off against Timothy McGee's biological son, Mateo (Patrick Keleher). An off-screen gunshot leaves the fate of these characters uncertain. McGee will be central to the fallout, as he also navigates the power vacuum left by Leon Vance (Rocky Carroll) as NCIS Director. Many fans believe McGee should take the top job, though Gabriel LaRoche (Seamus Dever) is also in the running.

With veterans like McGee and Jimmy Palmer (Brian Dietzen) still at headquarters, the timing is perfect to bring back both Tony and Ziva for a full season.

What This Means for NCIS Fans in Iowa

For conservative viewers who appreciate strong character-driven storytelling and traditional family values, the return of Tony and Ziva represents a return to the show's roots. Their relationship, built on loyalty, sacrifice, and eventual commitment, resonates with audiences who value enduring relationships and personal responsibility. The show's focus on law enforcement and justice also aligns with the values of many Iowa viewers who support strong public safety institutions.

NCIS Season 24 is expected to air this fall on CBS. No official announcement has been made regarding de Pablo's return, but the pieces are clearly in place for Ziva's comeback.

FAQ: Ziva David's Possible Return to NCIS

Will Ziva David definitely return in NCIS Season 24?

No official announcement has been made by CBS or Cote de Pablo. However, Michael Weatherly's return as Tony DiNozzo and the cancellation of the couple's spinoff strongly suggest Ziva could appear.

When was Ziva last seen on NCIS?

Ziva last appeared on NCIS in Season 17, after a story arc that revealed she had faked her own death. She has not appeared on the flagship since.

Why was NCIS: Tony & Ziva canceled?

CBS canceled the spinoff after one season. The network has not provided a detailed explanation, but the show's return to the flagship suggests a strategic shift in storytelling.

What other major storylines are coming in NCIS Season 24?

Season 24 will resolve Season 23's cliffhanger involving Nick Torres and Timothy McGee's son. It will also address the search for a new NCIS Director.

Photo: CBR