Michael Weatherly Reveals the Shocking Reason He Almost Turned Down NCIS!

Michael Weatherly Almost Turned Down NCIS Role Before Career-Defining Success

Michael Weatherly, beloved by fans as Special Agent Anthony DiNozzo on NCIS, recently revealed he nearly passed on joining the iconic crime drama. Despite his now-legendary status, the actor admitted he was initially hesitant to join the cast due to the show’s origins as a JAG spinoff.

“There was a bit of a stigma around it,” the 56-year-old actor told The Futon Critic. However, a meeting with NCIS creator Don Bellisario in Australia changed everything. “I was a little reluctant initially, but Don’s storytelling, presence, and personality won me over,” Michael explained. “I went in as a fan of Magnum, P.I., and came out thinking, ‘This could work.’”

Weatherly’s gamble paid off as NCIS became a massive success, with Michael portraying DiNozzo for 13 seasons. He left the series due to burnout but is now set to reprise his role in the highly anticipated 2025 spinoff, NCIS: Tony & Ziva.

The Return of Tony and Ziva

The spinoff will reunite Weatherly with Cote de Pablo, who plays Ziva David. Picking up after their off-screen reunion in Paris, the story begins with Tony and Ziva trying to navigate life as co-parents to their daughter, Tali. Their peace is disrupted when Tony’s security company is attacked, forcing the couple to go on the run while uncovering the identity of their pursuers.

Cote teased the action-packed nature of the show, telling Variety, “We’re addressing trust, co-parenting, and the challenges of building a life together under extreme circumstances. It’s not a straightforward happily-ever-after.”

Fans of the duo can expect thrilling moments, emotional depth, and the chemistry that made Tony and Ziva one of the most iconic couples in NCIS history.

With the spinoff on the horizon, Michael Weatherly’s journey with NCIS is far from over—proof that taking a leap of faith can lead to incredible opportunities.