NCIS season 17 is almost here, and viewers will finally see the return of Cote de Pablo's Ziva David in the hit CBS crime procedural series. The actress' character was gone for many years, and some already assumed she's already dead. However, Ziva's return in the upcoming season may have something to do with her daughter, Tali.
In TV Guide Magazine's cover story in the Returning Favorites issue, de Pablo said she's not just back in NCIS season 17 to warn Gibbs (Mark Harmon). Ziva returns because she's also "trying to keep her daughter a secret and safe from the people who are trying to get to Gibbs and her." Her reason makes sense, especially since she can make sure no one would hurt her daughter by not seeing her.
Ziva is a mother, and she would do everything she can to protect Tali. That's also probably one of the reasons why de Pablo's character didn't spend much time with her daughter. While their separation is heartbreaking, Ziva knows she's in danger. Hence, she wouldn't want her daughter to be in danger as well; that's why she's keeping her a secret.
But, it possible Ziva will have a reunion with Tali's father Tony (Michael Weatherly) in NCIS season 17? In a report via TVLine, NCIS showrunners Frank Cardea and Steve Binder teased about Tony following de Pablo's return in the new installment. Binder said that "answers will be forthcoming" about Tony's possible involvement in Ziva staying hidden, and also where he is now.
Cardea also teased that after Ziva's "resurrection," some of the storylines that started last year will also continue. That will include Gibbs' existential crisis in season 16 finale, where he decided to let go of his Rule 10 -- which is not to get emotionally involved in his case.
"We're going to see a bit more of what happens when a guy like Gibbs decides to start doing things because his emotions are taking him there," Binder told the outlet.
Aside from the return of some familiar faces, Binder also noted NCIS season 17 would introduce a "few more people" who work in the NCIS headquarters. He further teased, "something fun will come from that."
NCIS season 17 will premiere on Tuesday, September 24, on CBS. Ziva returns in the first episode, and her appearance on the second episode has been confirmed as well.
