Mark Harmon & Cote de Pablo Spill Secrets on Ziva’s NCIS Return – Explosive Revelations!
In a nostalgic return to the NCIS set in Valencia, California, for a TV Guide Magazine cover shoot, Cote de Pablo and Mark Harmon revisit the camaraderie that has defined their on-screen partnership. This August day marks the significant return of de Pablo’s character, Ziva David, after her presumed death in a 2016 explosion (de Pablo left the show in 2013). Ziva surprised fans with a cameo in the May finale, warning her former boss, Supervisory Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Harmon), about an imminent threat.
On set, Harmon, sporting a stage-makeup scratch, and de Pablo, preparing for a fight scene, exhibit the same easy rapport that fans have come to love. Despite the serious storyline, their off-screen friendship is evident as they share laughs and whispers.
In the upcoming Season 17, Ziva mentions a dangerous adversary named Sahar, putting both her and Gibbs in jeopardy. De Pablo emphasizes the realness of the threat, as Ziva, driven by a sense of responsibility and the need to protect those she cares about, faces personal and professional challenges.
Addressing the popular “Tiva” dynamic, fans’ beloved pairing of Tony and Ziva, the actors hint at the possibility of Tony’s return, although Michael Weatherly’s current commitments may impact this. The interview also touches on the action-packed premiere, showcasing scuffles and contested driving between Ziva and Gibbs.
As Ziva takes the lead in the season opener, the typical father-daughter dynamic undergoes a shift. De Pablo notes that trust needs to be reestablished between Ziva and Gibbs, who are both dealing with changed circumstances.
Reflecting on their working relationship, the actors express that their on-screen chemistry remains strong, making it easy to slip back into the roles. Harmon’s whispered moments before takes, which fans have speculated about, are attributed to an actor’s approach, keeping the details between them.
The interview concludes with a trip down memory lane, recalling the first day de Pablo joined the set in Season 3. Both actors share fond memories of her early commitment to the role, with Harmon praising her dedication and distinctive wardrobe choices.
The upcoming season promises a mix of danger and intrigue, tying back to Ziva’s past, with loose ends related to her half-brother Ari Haswari still lingering. Flashbacks and hints of Ziva’s marked history will be explored, alongside the return of characters significant to both Gibbs and Ziva.
As for the reaction of the NCIS team to Ziva’s return, the actors suggest that, in the premiere, the characters have been somewhat isolated, with more interaction planned for the second episode, particularly with McGee and Ducky. The anticipation for Season 17 grows as fans eagerly await the unraveling of Ziva’s complex storyline and her impact on the NCIS team.
