Cote de Pablo Breaks Silence on NCIS Exit: βI Had to Protect Zivaβs Storyβ
Cote de Pablo, celebrated for her unforgettable portrayal of Ziva David on NCIS, has finally spoken out on a topic that has intrigued fans for years. In a recent interview, the actress opened up about her 2013 departure from the hit series, offering clarity and heartfelt insight into the difficult decisionβand confirming what many fans had long suspected: her exit was a matter of personal and creative integrity.
De Pablo revealed that leaving the show was not something she took lightly. βI didnβt feel that the storyline they had planned for her was respectful or reflective of who Ziva was,β she said. For the actress, preserving the authenticity of Zivaβs character meant more than staying on the show. Her words echoed the quiet frustration many fans had sensed, validating their concerns about how the characterβs arc was originally being shaped.
Since stepping away from NCIS, de Pablo has continued to receive unwavering support from the fanbase. βI am so grateful for the love fans continue to show me,β she said, acknowledging the strong connection viewers still feel toward Ziva. That bond was rekindled during her surprise return in 2019, when she briefly reprised her role to wrap up lingering storylines and offer long-awaited closure.
Now, with her candid reflections, de Pablo has added a new layer of understanding to her choiceβone rooted in respect for her character and the audience. Her decision to walk away, rather than compromise on Zivaβs legacy, has only deepened fansβ admiration.
Authentic, passionate, and fiercely protective of her craft, Cote de Pabloβs latest remarks remind everyone why Ziva David remains one of the most iconic characters in NCIS historyβand why her portrayal continues to resonate so powerfully today.
