Michael Weatherly Confirms Season-Long NCIS Return Will Not Undo Tony and Ziva Spinoff

Michael Weatherly is officially back at work on the set of NCIS, reprising his role as Tony DiNozzo for a season-long story arc in the upcoming 24th season. The actor confirmed that his return will not erase or contradict the events of the spinoff series NCIS: Tony & Ziva, which currently streams on Paramount+.

"Michael Weatherly is returning as Tony DiNozzo for NCIS Season 24 in a season-long story arc, with filming starting this week. The report clarifies that his return won't retcon or undo the events of the spinoff series NCIS: Tony & Ziva."

Bleeding CoolMichael Weatherly Begins Filming NCIS Season 24 Return; Confirms Tony & Ziva Spinoff Won't Be Retconned

Weatherly originally joined the franchise during a backdoor pilot on JAG and remained a central figure on NCIS until his departure at the end of Season 13, according to Bleeding Cool. His return has raised questions among fans about how the new storyline will fit with the established spinoff narrative, but the actor has moved to put those concerns to rest.

TVLine reported that Weatherly teased a direct connection between his return to the mothership series and the ongoing Tony & Ziva spinoff. "He hinted at a connection to the upcoming Tony & Ziva spin-off series," TVLine wrote, adding that Weatherly's comments suggest the return may serve as a bridge between the two shows. The outlet noted that the spinoff will continue to exist without being overwritten by the main series.

TVLineMichael Weatherly Hints at Tony DiNozzo's NCIS Return and Connection to Tony & Ziva Spin-Off

CarterMatt highlighted broader excitement around the season, noting that there are "a number of things to be excited about with NCIS season 24 coming to CBS this fall." Meanwhile, episodebreakdown.com described the anticipation as "heightened by the announcement of a significant return that won't alter the narrative established by the Tony & Ziva spinoff series." The return is expected to draw viewers eager to see how DiNozzo fits back into the current team dynamic.

2 sources

CarterMattNCIS season 24 spoilers: Michael Weatherly on Tony returnepisodebreakdown.comNCIS Star Confirms Big Return in Season 24 Won't Retcon Tony & Ziva Spinoff