The characters were initially scripted as having a "cat and mouse" relationship, Ziva's trust issues, a series of other love interests, and Ziva being taken captive and presumed dead between Seasons 6 and 7.

In the season 13 finale, Ziva is killed by a mortar attack arranged by former CIA Agent Trent Kort, and Tony learns that he and Ziva have a daughter, who she named after her sister, Tali.

Special Agent Gibbs left NCIS at the end of season three after a terrorist attack had been successful because his superiors did not heed his warnings in time.

Frequently referred to by the portmanteau "Tiva" (for Tony and Ziva), the characters' flirtation and the idea of them eventually beginning a relationship became a subject of interest among viewers, and by 2010, TV Guide reported that "many fans have become obsessed with the romantic tension between Weatherly's character and co-worker Ziva".

Focus and media coverage on the pair escalated over the years, particularly after NCIS became the most watched television series in America during its tenth season.

Meanwhile, Harmon has been nominated three times for People’s Choice Awards.

A well-known actor, as well as a producer, how rich is Mark Harmon?