Tony DiNozzo’s NCIS Return Is Bigger Than Gibbs—And Better for the Show’s Future!

Michael Weatherly makes a surprise return as Tony DiNozzo in NCIS season 21, and his comeback is more significant than just a Gibbs cameo.

DiNozzo reappears in NCIS season 21’s tribute episode for Ducky, making Michael Weatherly’s return even more meaningful than Leroy Jethro Gibbs’. Following David McCallum’s passing in 2023, the long-running series is preparing an emotional farewell to his beloved character, Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard.

As the last original NCIS character still appearing on the show, McCallum remained a core member of the cast until his passing, though he had scaled back his appearances in later years to spend more time with his family.

Since Ducky has worked with every iteration of the NCIS team, it’s only fitting that he receives a tribute episode worthy of his legacy.

While the current cast includes longtime members like Timothy McGee and Jimmy Palmer, fans hoped for the return of more familiar faces from earlier seasons. Initially, NCIS had planned a simple way to bring back Gibbs for Ducky’s memorial episode. However, instead of a Mark Harmon cameo, the show opted for a bigger surprise—bringing Weatherly back as DiNozzo.

Brian Dietzen, who portrays Ducky’s on-screen protégé Jimmy Palmer, co-wrote NCIS season 21, episode 2, “The Stories We Leave Behind,” alongside Scott Williams.

Stay tuned for more updates on NCIS!