Cote de Pablo’s Secret to Becoming Ziva David: The Role That Changed Her Life

Cote de Pablo’s portrayal of Ziva David on NCIS remains one of the most iconic performances in the series’ history, but stepping into the role required a deep commitment to authenticity. De Pablo once shared that immersing herself in Ziva’s Israeli background was key to bringing the character to life. From learning Hebrew phrases to perfecting Ziva’s distinct accent, she worked tirelessly to ensure every detail resonated. This dedication helped Ziva become a multi-dimensional character, beloved for her fierce intelligence, loyalty, and complexity.

The role of Ziva didn’t just elevate NCIS—it changed de Pablo’s life. She has spoken about how playing Ziva taught her resilience and gave her a platform to explore powerful storylines, including themes of family, identity, and redemption. Even after her departure from the series, de Pablo’s portrayal continues to resonate with fans, cementing Ziva David as a character that shaped the legacy of NCIS.