Cote de Pablo joined NCIS in Season 3 as Ziva David, following the departure of Sasha Alexander’s Kate Todd. Throughout her eight-season run, she developed a flirtatious relationship with Michael Weatherly’s Tony DiNozzo, leading to the endearing nickname “Tiva” from fans. With over 250 episodes, the show is available for streaming on Paramount+. During an intimate scene, Cote de Pablo fondly remembered how Michael Weatherly took care of her, showing his considerate nature.
The actors reminisced about their experience on “Under Covers,” the eighth episode of NCIS Season 3, during their podcast, Off Duty : An NCIS Rewatch. This engaging show keeps fans entertained as they eagerly await the upcoming spinoff, NCIS : Tony & Ziva.
In this particular episode, Tony and Ziva embark on an undercover mission, posing as a married couple of assassins. The tension escalates right from the beginning with a passionate kiss and a staged intimate moment designed to deceive any potential observers.
Cote de Pablo shared her thoughts on how Michael Weatherly was attentive to her comfort during their scenes together in bed.
She said, “Well, I just remember this particular moment showing up the set, and then you were so worried about how you smelled. I remember this because I remember it was very cute. I remember thinking, Oh my God, he really cares. And you’re like, ‘Oh, is this ok ? Is this deodorant ok ? And I was like, ‘Oh my God!’ I kind of loved you because we’re going to be having these very intimate [scenes]… and I’m saying it like you were very considerate and you were like, ‘Did you like this deodorant ?’ You were very sincere about this particular exploration of intimacy between these two characters… And I remember thinking, ‘Michael, you always smell great, that’s not a problem.”
Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo were relatively new coworkers at that time, yet it’s commendable to know that he was already considerate towards her by ensuring she approved of the deodorant he used. It’s crucial to maintain a pleasant environment, especially when filming intimate scenes with a colleague.
Furthermore, Cote de Pablo revealed a discreet gesture from Michael Weatherly that contributed to her looking her best on screen, underscoring his professionalism and thoughtfulness.
As per Cote de Pablo, “You did something that was so kind, which is you grabbed my hair and you were holding onto my head, and you lifted me ever so slightly so I was in a good angle so that I looked good. I remember thinking, “What is he doing?’ ‘Because I wasn’t used to that. I was used to doing stuff on in the theatre or whatever where you’re not really thinking about those things. Like weight, the angle and is going to be flattering and am I going to see a double chin or whatever? And you were just very much aware of that, and without me knowing, you were protecting me. You were making sure that I was looking good.”
Tony and Ziva’s relationship started as a cover, but it blossomed into something real over the years. Now, they are happily raising their daughter Tali together. However, their peaceful life is disrupted when Tony’s security company is targeted, leading them to flee across Europe.
NCIS : Tony & Ziva has yet to announce its premiere date, but it will be available exclusively on Paramount+ unlike the other NCIS shows. In the meantime, viewers can look forward to NCIS Season 22 and the premiere of the prequel NCIS : Origins on Monday, October 14 as part of the 2024 TV schedule. Additionally, NCIS : Sydney has been confirmed for a second season, although the return date is still unknown.