In an announcement that has delighted fans of the long-running series, Michael Weatherly will be returning to the role of Tony DiNozzo in the popular crime drama “NCIS.” CBS confirmed the news on July 1, revealing that Weatherly’s character will make his comeback during the 2026-27 season, nearly a decade after he last appeared on the show.
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Weatherly, now 57, enjoyed a notable run as DiNozzo, featuring in over 300 episodes across the series’ 13 original seasons. He was a prominent figure in the show, first premiering alongside other stars such as Mark Harmon, Sasha Alexander, Pauley Perrette, Sean Murray, and the late David McCallum. His character has been a significant part of the show’s narrative, and fans have eagerly awaited his return since he departed in 2016.
The announcement comes on the heels of Weatherly’s brief return as DiNozzo in 2024 and follows his involvement in the NCIS spinoff “Tony & Ziva,” which aired for a single season in 2025. He shared the screen with Cote de Pablo, who portrayed Ziva David, another beloved character from the franchise. In a joint statement at the end of the spinoff, both actors expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to explore the characters’ relationship further.
The NCIS franchise has experienced remarkable success, giving rise to various spinoffs such as “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “NCIS: New Orleans,” and the recently launched “NCIS: Origins.” The series has become a staple on CBS, reaching milestones such as its landmark 500th episode and earning the title of the longest-running primetime drama on the network.
In response to Weatherly’s anticipated return, NCIS showrunner Steven D. Binder had previously hinted at the possibility in discussions with media outlets. During an interview with TVLine in 2022, Binder remarked on Weatherly’s departure and speculated that the actor might return one day, although he acknowledged that Weatherly had expressed a desire to move away from network television.
In addition to Weatherly, the franchise is also set to welcome back Mark Harmon, who portrayed the iconic Leroy Jethro Gibbs. CBS confirmed that Harmon would reprise his role in all episodes of “NCIS: Origins” Season 3, which is set to explore a present-day mystery linked to Gibbs’ past experiences in the 1990s. Harmon has been part of the NCIS family through its entirety, spanning 18 seasons, until his departure in 2021.
The upcoming 24th season of “NCIS” is scheduled to air on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT this autumn, further cementing its position as a cornerstone of CBS’s programming lineup. The show is also set to stream on Paramount+, providing fans with easy access to the latest episodes.
As excitement builds over Weatherly’s return, many are eager to see how the character of Tony DiNozzo will fit into the narrative of the series, especially after a significant absence. With the blend of nostalgia and fresh storylines, it appears that NCIS is poised to continue capturing the interest of both long-time viewers and new audiences alike.
In a world where fans often feel a deep connection to their favourite characters, Weatherly’s announcement is a reminder of the enduring appeal of the series and its ability to evolve while still honouring its roots. As the fall premiere approaches, anticipation continues to build regarding the return of legendary characters and the stories that lie ahead.