After 8 Years, Michael Weatherly Is Back on NCIS – Here’s What Changed

NCIS, the long-running CBS military drama that began in 2003, has remained one of TV’s most successful series. Among its original cast was Michael Weatherly, beloved for his role as Special Agent Tony DiNozzo – a witty, charismatic investigator whose bond with team leader Gibbs became central to the show.

Weatherly left after season 13, but after eight years, he’s officially returning to the franchise in a brand-new way.

Why Michael Weatherly Originally Left

Weatherly exited NCIS in 2016 for a mix of personal and professional reasons. A major factor was the departure of Cote de Pablo, who played Ziva David. Their on-screen chemistry had been a highlight for him, and once that dynamic ended, the role felt different. He also wanted new creative challenges after playing the same character for so long.

Tony’s farewell was emotional but hopeful: he left NCIS to raise Tali, his daughter with Ziva. This open ending left the door wide for a future return.

Weatherly then spent six seasons starring in Bull, giving him the change of pace he wanted. He briefly stepped back into Tony’s shoes in NCIS season 21’s tribute episode to David McCallum, but it was only a cameo.

Why He’s Returning Now

With Bull over and Weatherly ready for a new chapter, he’s officially returning to the NCIS universe – not in the main series, but in a new spin-off.

NCIS: Tony & Ziva

Weatherly and de Pablo will reunite in NCIS: Tony & Ziva, premiering September 4, 2025 on Paramount+. The series follows Tony, Ziva, and their daughter Tali as they navigate life – and danger – in Europe. It will be the franchise’s first spin-off focused on a duo rather than a full investigative team.

According to NCIS showrunner Steven D. Binder, there was never any bad blood – Weatherly simply needed a break from the intense network TV schedule. Now, after time off, he’s ready to return.

While it’s unclear if he’ll ever rejoin the main series, Weatherly’s comeback in this spin-off confirms both he and CBS are eager to continue Tony DiNozzo’s story.