Is Ziva coming back? Nearly every "NCIS" fan has asked this question since Michael Weatherly announced his exit from the show in January (and really since Cote de Pablo left the series in 2013). Tony's former partner will play a role in Weatherly's final episode, although it may not be as much as fans want.
"NCIS" showrunner Gary Glasberg has been planning Weatherly's exit for the past six months. He understands the role Ziva played in Tony's life (the two enjoyed a rather passionate kiss the last time they saw each other) and the final episode will acknowledge her in some form or another.
"You can't have Tony leave the show and not get into that in some respect," Glasberg told TVLine, "so plan on it being discussed and handled, even if it's in background."
Chances of de Pablo reprising her role as Ziva David continue to dwindle as production nears for the season finale. In January, CBS entertainment president Glenn Geller said there were "not currently" plans for her to return.
"NCIS" already brought back one of Tony ex-lovers this season. Scottie Thompson returned as Jeanne Benoit, who Tony dated for almost a year as he worked undercover trying to track down her father, an international arms dealer.
Their paths crossed again when insurgents in Sudan attacked a group of medical volunteers, including Jeanne's husband last fall. Reuniting on another case, she eventually told Tony goodbye for the last time.
Ziva may not return before Tony leaves, but his father, Anthony DiNozzo Sr., will visit his son at least one more time. Robert Wagner will reprise his role as the older DiNozzo for the eighth time in an episode later this month.
In his previous appearance last season, he considered moving into Tony's building, but decided to give his son his space and started looking a "swanky" senior residence where "attractive, rich widows" live.
Weatherly announced his departure from the show earlier this year via Twitter.
"DiNozzo is a wonderful, quixotic character & I couldn't have had more fun playing him over the past 13 seasons," he tweeted. "Les Moonves & CBS gave me the opportunity of a lifetime. I will miss the amazing crew & cast, who are like family to me, & to the fans all over the world - THANK YOU, it's been a fantastic ride."
"NCIS" will celebrate its 300th episode when the show returns with new episodes on Tuesday, March 15 at 8 p.m. on CBS.
