NCIS: Tony & Ziva Episode 1, 2 & 3 – Release Date, Preview, and Cast

A Long-Awaited Premiere

For years, NCIS fans have been hoping to see Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo reunite on screen. Their characters, Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David, better known as “Tiva,” became one of television’s most beloved duos. After more than a decade since their last full story together, the wait is finally over. The spinoff, NCIS: Tony & Ziva, officially premieres on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

Unlike most series that launch with a single pilot, Paramount+ is giving fans an action-packed debut. The first three episodes—titled “No Country Is Safe,” “No Friend of Mine,” and “Cover Story”—will all release together on the premiere day. After that, new episodes will drop weekly on Thursdays, leading up to the season finale on October 23, 2025.

This unique three-episode rollout shows just how confident the creators are in reintroducing Tony and Ziva’s story to both longtime fans and new viewers.

The Story: Family, Danger, and Espionage

The series picks up years after Ziva was believed dead and Tony left NCIS to raise their daughter, Tali, in Paris. Life seemed quiet until an attack on Tony’s security firm throws the family into chaos. Forced to go on the run, Tony, Ziva, and Tali find themselves at the center of a dangerous conspiracy.

The tone of the show balances high-octane spy thriller elements with the emotional drama of two people trying to rebuild trust and protect their child. Expect car chases, assassins, double agents, and plenty of witty banter between the leads. At its heart, though, the show explores what it means to reconnect after years apart and face unfinished business together.

Showrunner John McNamara described the series as “part techno-thriller, part romantic comedy, and part family drama.” That mix is evident from the previews—moments of explosive action blend seamlessly with quiet, intimate exchanges between Tony and Ziva.

Preview of Episodes 1, 2 & 3

Episode 1: “No Country Is Safe”
The pilot throws viewers right into the action. After a sudden attack on Tony’s business in Paris, the DiNozzo-David family is forced into hiding. The episode establishes the tone of the series—fast-paced, tense, but deeply rooted in character relationships.

Episode 2: “No Friend of Mine”
Tension grows as Tony and Ziva realize that betrayal may have come from someone close to them. Trust is tested, and the couple must rely on both old instincts and new allies to stay alive.

Episode 3: “Cover Story”
The third episode dives into deception, disguises, and hidden motives. While on the run, the family uncovers clues about who is pulling the strings. This episode is expected to showcase the larger espionage arc while also deepening the emotional bond between Tony, Ziva, and Tali.

Together, these three episodes serve as a reintroduction to “Tiva” while laying the groundwork for a season-long mystery.

The Cast: Familiar Faces and New Allies

At the center of it all are:

• Michael Weatherly as Anthony “Tony” DiNozzo Jr. – The former NCIS special agent turned father and security expert.
• Cote de Pablo as Ziva David – The skilled former Mossad officer and NCIS agent, who has re-emerged stronger and more determined than ever.
• Isla Gie as Tali DiNozzo – The daughter of Tony and Ziva, now old enough to become an important part of the story.

The supporting cast adds new dimensions to the series:

• Amita Suman as Claudette Caron, a European contact with shadowy ties.
• Lara Rossi as Sophie Summers, a sharp but mysterious ally.
• Maximilian Osinski as Boris, a figure tied to the conspiracy.
• Anne-Marie Waldeck as Fruzsi, connected to Ziva’s past.
• Julian Ovenden as Jonah, a potential rival or partner.
• James D’Arcy as Henry, whose motives remain unclear.
• Terence Maynard as Dr. Lang, a character involved in the unfolding mystery.
• Nassima Benchicou as Martine, and Emmanuel Bonami as Pierre Galimard round out the European cast.

Behind the scenes, both Weatherly and de Pablo are also serving as executive producers, ensuring the show remains authentic to the characters.

Why It Matters for Fans

This isn’t just another NCIS spinoff. For many viewers, it’s the continuation of a story that felt unfinished when Tony left the original series in Season 13 and Ziva seemingly died in Season 11. Their complicated relationship has fueled fan theories, fanfiction, and endless online discussions for years.

The new show doesn’t shy away from that history—it embraces it. Early feedback suggests the chemistry between Weatherly and de Pablo is as electric as ever. Even for those who weren’t longtime NCIS watchers, the dynamic between the two leads is strong enough to pull new viewers into their world.

For the fans who’ve been chanting “Tiva forever” for over a decade, this is finally the payoff.

Final Thoughts

NCIS: Tony & Ziva isn’t just another procedural—it’s a spy thriller with heart. The decision to launch with three episodes signals confidence that viewers will binge them immediately, eager to dive back into the world of Tony and Ziva.

Between explosive action, heartfelt drama, and the return of one of TV’s most iconic duos, this series promises to be a must-watch event this fall. Whether you’re a die-hard NCIS fan or someone curious about the buzz, September 4 marks the beginning of an adventure that blends family, danger, and love like never before.