Cote de Pablo’s portrayal of Ziva David on “NCIS” is a testament to her dedication and adaptability. Initially auditioning for a character described merely as “European,” she performed with a Czechoslovakian accent. Upon securing the role, she learned that Ziva was Israeli and had less than 48 hours to master Hebrew for her first episode. De Pablo’s commitment to authenticity led her to work with a dialect coach to perfect her Hebrew, ensuring her portrayal resonated with viewers.
Beyond language skills, de Pablo embraced the physical demands of the role. She performed many of her own stunts, finding the challenge both intense and rewarding. Her dedication to the character’s physicality and linguistic authenticity significantly contributed to Ziva David’s depth and appeal, making her one of the most beloved characters in television history.
