NCIS is one of the longest-running crime dramas on network TV, and with its extensive history, it’s no surprise that the show has seen its fair share of cast changes over the years. Unlike the shorter, limited series popular on streaming platforms these days, NCIS has stuck with its tradition of long seasons and continues to captivate its audience.
The show is a spin-off of JAG, focusing on naval crimes committed on or around American soil. Despite several spin-offs of its own, none have quite matched the charm and success of the original series.
Fans have always been drawn to the dynamic between the characters, especially the original team led by Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon). One standout character was Anthony “Tony” DiNozzo, played by Michael Weatherly. Tony’s witty one-liners and larger-than-life personality made him a fan favorite for over a decade. His departure from the show came in Season 13, with his final episode, “Family First,” airing on May 17, 2016.
Weatherly’s exit was handled in a way that resonated with fans. After a decade of on-screen chemistry with Ziva David (Cote de Pablo), Tony’s departure was tied to their storyline. The “will they or won’t they” relationship between Tony and Ziva was a central theme, and although their romance was subtle, it was significant to fans. The show revealed that Tony and Ziva had a daughter together, and Tony left NCIS to care for her after a dramatic event. The series hinted that Tony and Ziva eventually reunited in Paris with their child, providing a satisfying conclusion to their story.
