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Turns out,NCISalmost gave us a completely different Ziva David. Before Cote de Pablo locked down the iconic role, the team was on the verge of choosing another actress. And not just any contender; this one auditioned a jaw-dropping 15 times. Yep, 15. While the mystery actress gave it her all, fate had other plans, and de Pablo’s performance ultimately sealed the deal.
Imagine a world without Ziva’s sharp wit and badass energy. Wild, right? It’s a reminder that sometimes casting decisions really do change everything. ForNCISfans, de Pablo became irreplaceable, but it was almost an entirely different story.
How Cote de Pablo beat the odds to redefineNCIS
Cote de Pablo almost missed her iconicNCISrole as Ziva David. When she auditioned, another actress had already tried out 15-16 times for the part. De Pablo thought the odds weren’t in her favor. Little did she know, her performance would defineNCIShistory and create one of its most beloved characters.
De Pablo joinedNCISin season 3, initially signing a six-year contract but staying for eight seasons. Ziva’s fierce personality and undeniable chemistry with Anthony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) became fan favorites. Their dynamic grew so popular that it inspired the spinoffNCIS: Tony & Ziva.
“We decide when you’re sick”: Mark Harmon Literally Went Against Doctor’s Orders, Made NCIS Actor Come to Set Even after She Called in Sick
In theOff Duty: An NCIS Rewatchpodcast, de Pablo shared how hertest screening flipped the script. NCIS showrunner Donald Bellisario asked her to laugh at Weatherly during the audition, creating a playful yet intense vibe that set the tone for Ziva and Tony’s relationship. Weatherly’s unscripted move — touching her face and calling her “Salma Hayek” — sparked a fiery response from de Pablo, solidifying her fierce approach to Ziva.
De Pablo’s Hollywood moment came when Bellisario chased her outside after the audition to say she’d gotten the role. From commercials to theNCISmain stage, she packed her life in New York and moved to California to start filming immediately.
Pauley Perrette: NCIS Made Me Tell a “Filthy Joke” on Camera as Abby Sciuto
That chemistry between de Pablo and Weatherly wasn’t just good — it was punch-you-in-the-face good. Their playful yet balanced relationship gave fans a love story they rooted for. Almost pushed aside, Cote de Pablo ended up redefining whatNCIScould be.
Tony and Ziva reunite: Action, drama, and danger await inNCISspinoff
Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo arereuniting for the highly-anticipatedNCIS: Tony and Zivaspinoff, and fans are buzzing with excitement. Filming has wrapped, and the series is set to premiere on Paramount+ next year.
The story picks up in Paris, where Tony and Ziva reunite after her staged death to protect her family. Things take a dangerous turn when Tony’s security firm is attacked, forcing the duo and their daughter, Tali, to go on the run.
Cote de Pablo teased action-packed drama and challenges ahead, saying the road to“happily ever after”won’t be smooth sailing.
“Don’t let this guy get physically close to you”: NCIS Star Cote de Pablo Wanted to Stay Away from Michael Weatherly after What He Did to Her During Audition
NCISis available to watch on Hulu & Apple TV.
Heena Singh
Editor | Former Senior Writer
Articles Published :1457
Heena Singh is a Editor at FandomWire, spent the last two years making waves in entertainment journalism. With a knack for digging up blockbuster celebrity scoops and an uncanny nose for the latest buzz, Heena’s articles bring a fresh and fun perspective to life. When she’s not conquering writing challenges, you’ll find her curled up in bed, peacefully sleeping.
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Michael WeatherlySalma Hayek
