“‘It Was Truly Magical’: Cote de Pablo and Sean Murray Discuss the Significance of NCIS Season 3 for Them”
NCIS Reflects on the Impact of Season 3 as the Show Approaches Its 22nd Season
As NCIS gears up for its 22nd season, premiering on October 14, 2024, the show continues to evolve from its beginnings as a JAG spinoff. Over the course of its long run, many cast members have come and gone. Among the most prominent are Sean Murray, who remains a key part of the cast, and Cote de Pablo, who was a regular from Season 3 through the start of Season 11. Both actors have recently shared their reflections on why Season 3 holds a special place in their hearts.
Cote de Pablo’s Fondness for Season 3
Cote de Pablo’s deep appreciation for Season 3 is closely tied to it being her debut season as Ziva David. During a conversation with Sean Murray and Michael Weatherly on the podcast Off Duty: An NCIS Rewatch, de Pablo described the period as “magical.” She fondly recalled her initial experiences on set, expressing how she felt a genuine love for her work and couldn’t believe she was being paid for it. Her enthusiasm during this season was palpable, and she enjoyed watching the characters develop and come to life.
Despite a rocky start, including a misunderstanding with Michael Weatherly during her audition, de Pablo’s first season was a positive experience. Although she left the show under less than ideal circumstances, she has remained connected to NCIS, making guest appearances in Season 16 and 17. Now, she and Weatherly are collaborating on their own spinoff, NCIS: Tony & Ziva, which will be available for streaming on Paramount+.Sean Murray’s Nostalgia for Season 3
Sean Murray, who joined NCIS in Season 1 and became a regular in Season 2, also looks back at Season 3 with fondness. He noted that while the first two seasons were about discovering the show’s identity, Season 3 was when it began to solidify its character-driven approach. For Murray, this season marked a transition where the focus shifted more towards the characters rather than the procedural elements of the show.
Murray reflected that with the addition of de Pablo’s Ziva, the team began to feel more like a family, a sentiment he shared with de Pablo during their podcast discussion. He also acknowledged the growth of his character, Timothy McGee, in this season, which allowed him to step up and contribute more significantly to the show.
Season 3’s Impact on NCIS
Season 3 was crucial in shaping NCIS into the hit series it is today. It introduced new dynamics, including Lauren Holly’s Jenny Shepard, whose interactions with Mark Harmon’s Gibbs added a fresh element to the show. Although Holly’s tenure was brief, her role left a lasting impact on the series.
As NCIS prepares to launch its 22nd season and NCIS: Origins and NCIS: Sydney* return for new seasons, the legacy of Season 3 remains a pivotal chapter in the show’s history. Fans can look forward to more up* dates on NCIS: Tony & Ziva as it becomes available on Paramount+.
