For years, NCIS fans have admired the bond between Mark Harmon, who played Leroy Jethro Gibbs, and Cote de Pablo, beloved for her role as Ziva David. Recently, Harmon addressed some long-standing rumors about de Pablo, leaving fans both heartbroken and reflective. During an interview, Harmon opened up about Cote’s decision to leave NCIS in 2013, citing personal reasons that deeply resonated with him. “Cote always put her heart into everything she did, and stepping away was one of the hardest decisions she ever had to make,” Harmon shared.

De Pablo’s departure shocked fans, especially as her character’s storyline ended abruptly. Harmon revealed that the decision wasn’t just about her career but also her personal well-being. “She wanted to take care of herself and focus on things that truly mattered to her,” he explained. While it was a difficult loss for the show, Harmon expressed nothing but admiration for her courage to prioritize her needs. “She’s one of the strongest people I’ve ever worked with,” he said.

Despite the heartbreak of her leaving, Harmon hinted at their continued friendship and mutual respect. “Cote will always be family to me and to everyone on the show,” he remarked. Fans still hope to see more of de Pablo, whether it’s in a future NCIS project or a new role entirely. For now, Harmon’s words remind fans of the emotional struggles behind the scenes of their favorite shows—and the enduring bond between these two stars.