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 television history. To bring the fierce and enigmatic Mossad agent to life, de Pablo delved deep into her craft, focusing on Ziva’s complex blend of strength, vulnerability, and cultural identity. She worked tirelessly to master Ziva’s distinctive Israeli accent and immerse herself in the character’s backstory, allowing her to connect with the emotional layers that made Ziva so relatable to fans. This dedication transformed Ziva into a character that not only elevated the show but also became a cultural touchstone for strong, multidimensional female leads.

For de Pablo, Ziva wasn’t just a role; it was a life-changing experience. The character’s evolution—from a stoic operative to a deeply loyal team member and friend—mirrored de Pablo’s own growth as an actress. She has often credited Ziva with challenging her creatively and giving her the platform to explore themes of resilience, family, and identity. While de Pablo eventually stepped away from NCIS, her time as Ziva remains a defining chapter in her career, cementing her legacy as one of the show’s most beloved stars.