Cote de Pablo’s departure from NCIS in 2013 left fans stunned and devastated. After portraying the beloved character Ziva David for nearly a decade, her sudden exit seemed like a mystery. Many speculated it was due to contract negotiations or personal reasons, but the truth was much more complex than anyone anticipated. De Pablo revealed in interviews that her decision was primarily influenced by creative differences with the show’s direction, particularly the writing of her character. She felt that Ziva’s story arc was not being given the depth and respect it deserved, ultimately leading to her decision to leave the series.

However, there were also deeper, behind-the-scenes factors that played a role. De Pablo admitted that she wasn’t just unhappy with the storyline but also with the way the work environment had changed over the years. The long shooting hours, the intensity of the show’s production schedule, and the pressure of maintaining a high level of performance each season wore on her. Despite the success of NCIS and her popularity as Ziva, Cote de Pablo chose to prioritize her personal well-being and pursue other opportunities. Her departure marked a turning point for the show, leaving a lasting impact on both the fans and the cast.