Cote de Pablo, born María José de Pablo Fernández, is a Chilean-American actress and singer best known for her iconic role as Ziva David on the long-running CBS crime drama NCIS. Her powerful portrayal of the Israeli Mossad officer turned NCIS special agent earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
Before joining NCIS, de Pablo studied musical theater at Carnegie Mellon University and worked in theater and television. She appeared in shows like The $treet and The Education of Max Bickford before landing her breakthrough role in 2005.
Success and Departure from NCIS
During her time on NCIS, Cote de Pablo became one of the most beloved characters on the show. Her chemistry with co-stars, particularly Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo), was a fan favorite. She remained on the series for eight seasons, significantly contributing to its international success.
In 2013, she announced her departure, citing personal and professional reasons. Her exit shocked fans and led to widespread speculation. While she left at the height of her popularity, she later clarified that the decision was based on creative and character development concerns.
Return to NCIS and Fan Reaction
In 2019, de Pablo made a surprise return to NCIS in a multi-episode arc that reignited interest in the series. Her reappearance thrilled fans and sparked hope for more involvement. While her return was brief, it served as closure for Ziva’s storyline and highlighted her ongoing connection to the show.
Her comeback was praised for preserving the legacy of her character and offering deeper insight into Ziva’s post-departure journey.
Post-NCIS Acting Projects
After her initial departure, de Pablo explored other acting opportunities. She starred in the 2015 CBS miniseries The Dovekeepers, a historical drama based on Alice Hoffman’s novel. She also appeared in Prototype, a pilot for SyFy that was not picked up to series.
Though she has been selective with roles, her performances reflect a preference for meaningful, character-driven projects. Her acting style continues to be marked by emotional depth and strong presence.
Behind-the-Scenes Work and Production
In recent years, Cote de Pablo has expanded her creative work behind the scenes. In 2020, it was announced that she and Michael Weatherly would co-produce a new CBS detective drama, reuniting the fan-favorite duo in a creative capacity.
While the series has not yet been released, it signifies a growing interest in producing and developing content. This move reflects a maturing career path, where de Pablo takes on leadership roles within the industry.
Life Outside of Acting
De Pablo has always maintained a relatively private life. She lives in the United States but keeps a strong connection to her Chilean roots and family. Fluent in both Spanish and English, she values cultural heritage and often incorporates her background into her work.
She is known for her thoughtful interviews and grounded approach to fame. Unlike many celebrities, she does not maintain an active public presence on social media, opting instead for privacy and a focus on personal growth.
Musical Background and Talent
In addition to acting, de Pablo is a trained singer. She has showcased her vocal talent in various NCIS episodes, most notably performing a rendition of “Temptation” in Season 6. Her background in musical theater continues to influence her approach to performance and storytelling.
Though she hasn’t released solo music projects, fans continue to appreciate her musicality and the depth it brings to her roles.
Current Focus and Future Plans
As of now, Cote de Pablo remains active in the entertainment industry with an emphasis on carefully selected projects. Her recent involvement in production suggests a strategic shift toward content creation and storytelling from behind the camera.
She has expressed interest in meaningful scripts, strong female roles, and culturally rich narratives. While not constantly in the public eye, she remains an influential figure with a loyal fan following eager to see what she does next.
Legacy and Impact
Cote de Pablo’s legacy extends beyond her role on NCIS. She helped redefine female characters on procedural dramas, blending strength, vulnerability, and intelligence in a way that resonated globally.
Her career is a testament to artistic integrity, showing that long-lasting impact comes from authenticity and thoughtful choices. Fans and critics alike view her as a symbol of empowerment and talent in the evolving landscape of television.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cote de Pablo doing now?
Cote de Pablo is currently involved in behind-the-scenes production work and remains active in acting. She is working on developing new television content with CBS.
Did Cote de Pablo return to NCIS?
Yes. She returned briefly in 2019 for a multi-episode arc that provided closure for her character, Ziva David.
Is Cote de Pablo still acting?
Yes. While selective, she continues to pursue acting and production projects, focusing on meaningful, story-driven content.
Does Cote de Pablo sing?
Yes. She is a classically trained singer and has performed in both musical theater and on NCIS.
Where does Cote de Pablo live?
She resides in the United States and maintains a private lifestyle, staying largely out of the public spotlight.