Cote de Pablo’s departure from NCIS in 2013 shocked fans, as her character, Ziva David, had become one of the most beloved agents on the show. In interviews, de Pablo explained that her decision to leave was driven by a desire for more creative fulfillment, as she felt that her character’s storyline had reached its peak. Despite the apparent closure of Ziva’s arc, fans were left longing for her return, especially as the years passed and the mystery surrounding her exit deepened.

In 2020, after a six-year absence, de Pablo made a stunning return to NCIS in a highly anticipated storyline. Her return was met with excitement as it provided fans with answers and a chance to see Ziva’s emotional journey unfold. De Pablo has shared that she was drawn back by a compelling narrative and a renewed passion for the character. Her return not only reignited Ziva’s story but also reignited the connection between de Pablo and her audience, proving that sometimes, good things really do take time.