NCIS Tony and Ziva star Michael Weatherly weighs in on original cast joining spin-off

NCIS: Tony & Ziva has already got viewers completely captivated and fresh episodes are being released each week on Paramount+.

The offshoot of the enduring crime drama NCIS features Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo returning to their beloved characters Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David.

The fresh series represents their first joint appearance in 12 years following NCIS season 11, and the original reveal drove supporters absolutely wild.

Weatherly, who additionally served as executive producer on the programme, chatted exclusively to Reach publications regarding a possible collaboration with the main cast.

When questioned about whether any character from the original NCIS might feature, he responded: "I think that's a great question for everybody, whether that's feasible."

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"For me the answer is of course, I would love to see that and really it's just about making it the most quality appearance.

"You don't want to just stunt cast, somebody with Mark Harmon's haircut who walks by in the background and they are like 'Oh, is that Gibbs?'"

"Or somebody with black pigtails with a spiderweb tattoo on her neck - that would have to be Abby.

"I think that would have to be heavily negotiated by all the powers that be, of which I am just a little micro contributor."

The debut season comprises 10 episodes and is anticipated to wrap up on October 23.

Regarding the possibility of a second season, showrunner John McNamara revealed to TV Insider: "I try never to count my chickens before they're hatched.

"I'm just focused on finishing this season and trying to make it as good as possible.

"And honestly, it is going to be entirely up to the fans and the subscribers to Paramount+ and ultimately to Paramount and CBS. It's their property and it's their money."

The programme has received glowing feedback from both audiences and critics, with IMDb describing it as "both a nostalgia trip and a compelling continuation".

Given this reception, supporters can stay optimistic about a second series and potentially even a crossover episode.

NCIS: Tony & Ziva airs on Thursdays on Paramount+.