The NCIS franchise has evolved dramatically since its debut in 2003, but many fans still long for the show’s early days with its original cast. Unfortunately, a full reunion is no longer possible. David McCallum passed away in 2023, Sasha Alexander’s Kate Todd was k1lled off long ago, and Pauley Perrette has made it clear she won’t return as Abby Sciuto. Mark Harmon’s Gibbs is also enjoying retirement after leaving in season 19.
That’s why Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo Jr.) and Joe Spano (Tobias Fornell) crossing paths at NCIS creator Don Bellisario’s 90th birthday felt so special. Weatherly shared the nostalgic reunion on Instagram, reminding fans of the show’s earliest roots.
Both actors remain active in the NCIS universe. Weatherly, who last appeared during Ducky’s farewell episode, is officially back with the highly anticipated spinoff NCIS: Tony & Ziva. Spano, meanwhile, continues to pop up on the flagship series, most recently in its landmark 1000th episode, which revisited the very first case. Despite being pillars of the franchise, DiNozzo and Fornell haven’t shared the screen in years.
For now, a Tony-Fornell team-up seems unlikely since their storylines exist in different corners of the universe. Still, Spano’s presence is often overlooked – he’s technically part of the original cast and has appeared in more episodes than some of the early MCRT members. As Gibbs’ closest friend and an essential ally from the FBI, Fornell remains one of the show’s most beloved recurring characters.
Their off-screen reunion is a perfect reminder of the family-like bond that has carried NCIS through more than 20 years on air. While fans may never get a full original cast comeback, seeing Weatherly and Spano together proves the heart of NCIS is still alive – and leaves the door open for future nostalgic crossovers.
