Answer Up Front
No, actor Michael Weatherly and actress Cote de Pablo are not renewing their contracts for ongoing NCIS roles; both characters departed years ago. Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) and Ziva David (Cote de Pablo) exited during season 16 and season 10, respectively, and have not returned for new regular seasons. There is no current plan for a full-time reinstatement, though brief, limited-episode returns for special events remain possible. This explains the renewal question in simple terms, the real-world reasons behind the departures, and what that means for future stories.
Tony DiNozzo: Status and Departure
When and Why Tony Left
Michael Weatherly exited NCIS in season 16 to pursue new creative projects and leadership roles in directing and producing. The decision was mutual, allowing the show to shift its ensemble focus. Since his 2019 departure, there has been no ongoing contractual renewal for Weatherly to return as a series regular. His final episodes aired during a multi-episode arc that wrapped key ongoing storylines for Team Gibbs.
As of now, there are no indications that Weatherly will rejoin the cast on a recurring or regular basis in future seasons. This status clarifies that the character remains retired from the active series while leaving room for occasional, limited returns.
Ziva David: Status and Departure
When and Why Ziva Left
Cote de Pablo’s last regular appearance occurred in season 10, with her character relocating for personal and family reasons. Although de Pablo has participated in brief, behind-the-camera discussions about the character, she has not signed on for new episodes. NCIS introduced successor figures and adapted the team structure in the years that followed, confirming that a full-time revival is not currently planned.
The status remains that Ziva is not part of the current ongoing cast. Like Tony, the door is not fully closed, as limited event returns or special-episode appearances have happened before and could theoretically occur again.
Renewal Context for Characters and Actors
The phrase “did Tony and Ziva get renewed” can be answered quickly: not for ongoing series roles. In practical terms, there are no renewal negotiations for either principal to return as permanent fixtures. Both exits were driven by career evolution and creative planning rather than behind-the-scenes conflict. Below is a concise overview of timelines and contractual status to illustrate the current standing.
| Actor / Character | Last Season as Regular | Departure Year | Renewal Status for New Episodes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Weatherly / Tony DiNozzo | Season 16 | 2019 | Not renewed for regular appearances |
| Cote de Pablo / Ziva David | Season 10 | 2013 | Not renewed for regular appearances |
Behind the Scenes: Why They Did Not Continue
Creative Direction and Career Goals
NCIS has periodically adjusted its cast to reflect evolving storylines and to explore fresh dynamics. Weatherly’s departure aligned with his interest in directing and expanding his role within the studio’s production ecosystem. De Pablo’s exit reflected personal priorities and the natural arc of a long-running character. In both cases, the show continued successfully with new ensemble members and tighter narrative focus on the core team.
Could They Return in the Future?
Limited Returns Versus Full Renewals
Event-based returns are common in long-running procedurals, and both Tony and Ziva have appeared in special episodes or retrospective segments. However, a full renewal implies a multi-episode contract and recurring presence, which is not currently in place. Any future limited appearances would require scheduling alignment, storyline justification, and new agreements, none of which are publicly underway.
Impact on Storylines and Fan Reception
How the Show Adapted
After Tony’s exit, NCIS emphasized Gibbs’ leadership and introduced supporting characters to fill operational gaps. Following Ziva’s departure, the show leaned into existing relationships and new alliances, including mentorship roles and evolving team dynamics. Viewer metrics suggest that the core appeal remained steady, with the transition handled through established procedural structures rather than reliance on a single duo.
What This Means Going Forward
For viewers asking about renewed seasons of Tony and Ziva, the straightforward answer is that neither character is returning as a regular. The series has continued without them, and there is no active plan to reverse that direction. Occasional references, flashbacks, or one-off appearances can never be fully ruled out in a franchise of this length, but they would be exceptions rather than a renewed presence moving forward.
Quick Takeaways
- Tony DiNozzo is not renewing for ongoing seasons; last regular appearance in season 16 (2019).
- Ziva David is not renewing for ongoing seasons; last regular appearance in season 10 (2013).
- No current plans for full-time returns; limited event appearances remain possible but are not guaranteed.
- Departures were driven by actor career choices and creative planning, not by production conflict.
- The show has successfully maintained its core formula and audience after both exits.
Wrap-Up
To summarize, neither Tony nor Ziva has been renewed for new regular seasons on NCIS. Their characters were written off years ago, and actors have moved on to other professional priorities. This answer is consistent across official statements and public records to date. While the entertainment industry leaves room for surprise appearances, fans should not expect a standard renewal of either role in the foreseeable future.