NCIS is losing one of its longest-running players. Cote de Pablo confirmed Tuesday that she would not be reprising the role of Ziva David for the drama's upcoming 11th season.
“I’ve had eight great years with NCIS and Ziva David," de Pablo said. "I have huge respect and affection for Mark [Harmon], Gary [Glasberg], Michael [Weatherly], David [McCallum], Rocky [Carroll], Pauley [Perrette], Brian [Dietzen], Sean [Murray], all of the team and CBS. I look forward to finishing Ziva’s story.”
PHOTOS: Broadcast TV's Returning Shows 2013-14
As her statement implies, she will return for an unknown number of episodes this fall to wrap up her storyline.
CBS and CBS Television Studios issued a joint statement when confirming the news: “We respect Cote’s decision, thank her for being an important part of the NCIS team, and for eight terrific years playing Ziva David. Cote and CBS share a great respect for the NCIS audience, and we look forward to working with her and the producers on appropriate closure in this chapter of Ziva’s story.”
NCIS, TV's most-watched series with 22.7 million viewers, averaged a 4.4 rating with adults 18-49 during its 10th season, according to Nielsen's Live+Seven Day returns.
De Pablo made her debut as a series regular at the start of the third season. Other NCIS stars to depart the series include Sasha Alexander and Lauren Holly.
CBS gave NCIS an early renewal in February, simultaneously re-upping with star and executive producer Harmon.
