Where Are They Now? A Look Back at Our Favorite NCIS Cast Over the Years

NCIS has been a television staple since it first aired in 2003, known for its gripping storylines, compelling investigations, and—most of all—its memorable characters. Over the years, many faces have come and gone, but each left a mark that fans still talk about.

Let’s take a look back at some of the most beloved NCIS cast members—where they came from, what made them so memorable, and where their careers have taken them since.

Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly)

Charismatic, mischievous, and always ready with a one-liner, Tony DiNozzo quickly became a fan favorite. Michael Weatherly’s portrayal brought levity to the team, balancing out the show’s darker themes with his humor and heart.

Before NCIS, Michael Weatherly had guest roles on The Cosby Show and Loving. He left the series at the end of Season 13 in 2016, then starred as Dr. Jason Bull in the legal drama Bull from 2016 to 2022. Since  leaving his acting roles, Weatherly has directed episodes of Rizzoli & Isles and Netflix’s You. In early 2024, reunited with Cote de Pablo as executive producer for the upcoming Paramount+ spinoff NCIS: Tony & Ziva.

Abby Sciuto (Pauley Perrette)

For 15 seasons, forensic scientist Abby Sciuto brought goth flair and boundless curiosity to NCIS. Pauley Perrette left the show in 2018 and officially retired from acting in July 2020. She’s since shifted focus to producing documentaries—most notably the LGBTQ+ history film Studio One Forever—and has spoken openly about pursuing authenticity over performance.

Caitlin “Kate” Todd (Sasha Alexander)

Sasha Alexander became part of NCIS in 2003, portraying Secret Service agent-turned-NCIS Special Agent Caitlin “Kate” Todd. She left the series in 2005 after two seasons to pursue a less demanding work schedule.

Alexander subsequently starred in TNT’s Rizzoli & Isles from 2010–2016, later directing episodes of shows like You and lending her voice to animated series. She continues to act and direct across television and streaming platforms 

Ziva David (Cote de Pablo)

Mossad-trained officer Ziva David joined NCIS in 2005 and quickly became a pivotal character. Cote de Pablo left as a series regular in 2013, returned for a guest appearance in 2019, and has since explored film roles (The 33, The Dovekeepers) and podcasting (Off Duty: An NCIS Rewatch). In 2024, Paramount+ revealed that Ziva and Tony would star in a new spinoff, NCIS: Tony & Ziva, set to film later this year

Jenny Shepard (Lauren Holly)

Lauren Holly played NCIS Director Jenny Shepard from 2005 to 2008, taking over from Director Tom Morrow in Season 3. She introduced a different dynamic to the show, and her character's past connection with Gibbs brought a new layer of interest to the series. Before joining NCIS, Holly had an acting background that included appearances in Picket Fences, Chicago Hope, and Dumb and Dumber.

After her character's departure from NCIS, Holly took on recurring parts in shows like Motive (2013–2016) and Designated Survivor (2018). Since 2021, she has been a regular on the legal drama Family Law. She also contributes her experience in guest directing and producing roles.

Jack Sloane (Maria Bello)

In Season 14, Maria Bello joined NCIS as Dr. Jacqueline “Jack” Sloane, a medical examiner, from 2017 to 2021. Before NCIS, Bello had a successful career, with roles in Coyote Ugly, ER, and A History of Violence. She brought depth and compassion to the character, helping Gibbs open up in a way fans hadn’t seen before.

After her exit, Bello produced 2022's historical film The Woman King. She also received recognition as an actress and producer for Netflix's 2023 limited series Beef. In May 2024, she married chef Dominique Crenn in Mexico, and she continues to manage significant projects alongside her philanthropic efforts.

What’s next for our agents?

With a new NCIS: Tony & Ziva series on the way, the future promises fresh cases and deeper character moments. Whether you're looking back at older seasons or checking out spin-off previews, NCIS’s legacy rests on its agents and the actors who bring them to life.