In 2005, NCIS faced a significant transition when Cote de Pablo joined the cast as Ziva David, replacing the character of Caitlin Todd, portrayed by Sasha Alexander. This change raised concerns among the main cast, including Mark Harmon, who was apprehensive about introducing a new character to fill the void left by Alexander’s departure. Despite initial reservations, de Pablo’s portrayal of Ziva David resonated with both the cast and the audience, leading to her becoming a beloved character on the show.
Similarly, Mark Harmon’s own departure from NCIS in 2021 marked another pivotal moment for the series. His exit prompted discussions about the future direction of the show and the introduction of new leadership within the team. While the transition was challenging, it allowed for the introduction of new characters and dynamics, ensuring the series’ continued success.