Cote de Pablo says becoming a mother in real life helped her connect even more deeply with Ziva David’s journey in NCIS: Tony & Ziva.
Speaking at the show’s New York City premiere, the actress shared that stepping into Ziva’s role as a parent felt natural. In the new series, Ziva and Tony DiNozzo are raising their daughter Tali together when an att4ck on Tony’s security company forces the family to go on the run across Europe – testing both their trust and their relationship.
De Pablo revealed that her own motherhood experiences influenced her performance, helping her portray Ziva’s protective instincts and emotional growth. However, she has kept details about her personal life private, including her child’s age and father.
The actress also praised young co-star Isla Gie, who plays Tali, calling her “very talented” and noting how well she captured traits from both Tony and Ziva despite not being part of the original NCIS series.
Reflecting on the enduring popularity of the couple, de Pablo believes fans remain invested because of years of unresolved tension and chemistry between the characters. Their sharp banter, emotional vulnerability, and slow-burn romance kept audiences hooked long before they finally reunited.
Now, with Tony and Ziva navigating parenthood and danger side by side, de Pablo says the story offers fans the family dynamic they always hoped to see – while staying true to the complicated relationship that made the duo iconic.