**Why Cote De Pablo Left NCIS (& Returned 6 Years Later)**

Cote de Pablo, who played the beloved character Ziva David on “NCIS,” left the show in 2013, much to the dismay of fans. Her departure was sudden and left many wondering why she chose to exit at the height of her popularity. De Pablo later revealed that her decision was rooted in a need for personal and professional growth. She felt that her character’s storyline was not being given the depth and direction it deserved, prompting her to seek new opportunities and challenges outside the show. Despite the show’s success and her character’s critical acclaim, de Pablo prioritized her integrity as an artist and her desire for more substantial roles.

Six years after her departure, Cote de Pablo made a surprising return to “NCIS” in 2019. Her comeback was driven by a revitalized storyline for Ziva David, one that promised to explore the complexities of her character more fully. The showrunners approached de Pablo with a narrative that resonated with her, offering Ziva a meaningful and action-packed arc that addressed unanswered questions and provided closure to her previous departure. Her return was met with enthusiasm from fans who had long hoped for her character’s comeback.

In conclusion, Cote de Pablo’s exit from “NCIS” was fueled by a desire for deeper character