For over two decades, fans of NCIS have been captivated by the tumultuous relationship between Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David—a rollercoaster of love, loss, and unexpected reunions. But their story is far from over. And here’s where it gets truly fascinating: while their on-screen romance has kept viewers on the edge of their seats, the real-life friendship between actors Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo is just as compelling. Nowhere was this bond more evident than at the New York Comic Con on October 9, 2025, where the duo discussed their return in the Paramount+ spin-off NCIS: Tony & Ziva. But this isn’t just another sequel—it’s a deep dive into the lives of two former agents navigating parenthood, danger, and unresolved feelings in the heart of Paris, France.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While fans have long debated the nature of Tony and Ziva’s relationship, the off-screen dynamic between Michael and Cote raises an intriguing question: Can chemistry this strong truly be confined to the screen? From Michael’s chivalrous gestures—like letting Cote take the lead on stage—to their playful banter and heartfelt moments, it’s clear their connection goes beyond acting. During the panel, hosted by Damien Holbrook, the pair reminisced about their time on NCIS, shared behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and even held hands while discussing their favorite memories. At one point, Cote recounted a scene where she was running, with Michael jokingly adding, ‘I was protecting you,’ as his reason for trailing behind. It’s moments like these that leave fans wondering: Is their friendship the secret sauce behind their on-screen magic?
The spin-off picks up six years after their last reunion, with Tony and Ziva raising their teenage daughter in Paris. But, as with any NCIS story, peace is short-lived. Accused of bribing Interpol out of hundreds of millions of dollars, the pair find themselves on the run across Europe. This high-stakes plot not only tests their skills but also forces them to confront the emotional baggage they’ve carried since their time at NCIS. Michael hinted at the complexity of their characters, noting Ziva’s trauma and Tony’s tendency to avoid his own pain. ‘It’s like a haunting kind of pain,’ he said, sparking a playful yet insightful debate with Cote.
And this is the part most people miss: The spin-off isn’t just about action—it’s about healing. During a candid dinner conversation, Michael and Cote revealed that returning to the NCIS world felt therapeutic. ‘We never got a chance to really play out most of the things we thought we could,’ Cote admitted. The overwhelming support from fans allowed them to explore these untold stories, making the experience deeply personal. But here’s the kicker: Could this spin-off be their way of rewriting the ending fans never got?
As they welcomed new cast members, Cote reflected on the organic process of building a ‘family’ on set—a sentiment Michael echoed. ‘Little by little, you start having moments that make you laugh, and before you know it, you become a little bit of a family,’ she said. But is this familial bond a result of their shared history, or something more? And what does this mean for the future of Tony and Ziva’s story?
Thought-provoking question for you: Do you think Michael and Cote’s real-life friendship enhances their on-screen chemistry, or is it simply a testament to their talent as actors? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this dynamic duo!
