“She Finally Spoke Out!” NCIS Star Cote de Pablo Drops Bombshell About Mark Harmon — Fans Are Stunned!

NCIS Star Cote de Pablo Opens Up About Her Bond with Mark Harmon — While Pauley Perrette Stays Firm on Her Exit

Cote de Pablo, beloved for her role as Ziva David on NCIS, has spoken openly about her enduring respect and admiration for longtime co-star Mark Harmon, who played the iconic Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Over the years, de Pablo has called Harmon the “heart and soul” of the series, crediting him as a steady mentor and leader both on and off camera.

In various interviews, de Pablo has reflected on Harmon’s professionalism, generosity, and dry sense of humor, saying he helped create a supportive and focused atmosphere on set. “Mark was always there for us,” she shared, recalling how his calm presence helped guide the show through its most successful seasons. Even after de Pablo left the series in 2013, their bond remained strong, with her often crediting Harmon for positively influencing her career.

Although Harmon departed the series in 2021, his impact continues to resonate — especially in the powerful dynamic between Gibbs and Ziva, a relationship fans still praise for its depth and authenticity, built on the mutual respect shared by both actors.

Meanwhile, Pauley Perrette, who played forensic scientist Abby Sciuto, recently reiterated that she has no intention of returning to NCIS. The actress, now 50, firmly stated she will “never” return to the series, citing personal reasons — including an apparent rift with Harmon. “I’m terrified of Mark Harmon,” she once wrote on social media, putting an end to any speculation about a possible comeback.

As the NCIS legacy evolves, fans continue to celebrate the lasting connections among cast members like de Pablo and Harmon — even as others, like Perrette, choose to move on for good.