Michael Weatherly’s Tony DiNozzo Returns to NCIS Season 24 — Here’s What Fans Want to See

After years away, Michael Weatherly is officially returning to NCIS as Tony DiNozzo for a major Season 24 storyline. The fan-favorite character, who left the series at the end of Season 13, is back for a season-long arc that promises to reconnect him with familiar faces and revisit some of the show’s most beloved relationships.

While CBS has kept most plot details under wraps, there are several moments fans are already hoping to see when Tony returns.

A Long-Awaited Reunion With Ziva and Tali

One of the biggest wishes among fans is seeing Tony reunited with Ziva David and their daughter, Tali, on the flagship series.

Although both Tony and Ziva returned separately to NCIS over the years, viewers have never truly seen them together as a family on the original show. After the events of NCIS: Tony & Ziva, where the couple found their way back to each other, many hope Season 24 finally brings the entire family to the screen.

An added bonus would be seeing Tali meet McGee’s twins, giving fans a rare glimpse into the next generation of the NCIS family.

Tony and McGee Together Again

Few partnerships in NCIS history were as entertaining as Tony and Tim McGee. Their playful rivalry, constant teasing, and genuine friendship became one of the defining dynamics of the series.

Season 24 offers the perfect opportunity to revisit that relationship, especially now that McGee has grown from the inexperienced “Probie” into one of the team’s senior agents.

Fans are also eager to see the two friends discuss McGee’s newly discovered teenage son, Mateo—a storyline that could bring emotional depth to Tony’s return.

A Connection to Gibbs

With Mark Harmon returning as Leroy Jethro Gibbs in NCIS: Origins Season 3, many viewers are hoping for some kind of connection between the two series.

Whether it’s Tony visiting Gibbs in Alaska, a heartfelt phone conversation, or simply mentioning that they still keep in touch, any reference to their enduring friendship would be a welcome moment for longtime fans.

Catching Up With Jimmy Palmer

Tony and Jimmy Palmer shared plenty of memorable moments during their years together at NCIS. From lighthearted conversations to unexpected advice, their friendship quietly evolved over time.

Now that Palmer has become a central member of the team, fans would love to see the two reconnect and reflect on how much their lives have changed.

Remembering Director Vance

Another storyline viewers hope the series addresses involves Leon Vance. During a recent franchise appearance, it was revealed that several characters attended Vance’s funeral.

Many fans believe Tony and Ziva would certainly have been there, and they hope Season 24 acknowledges their presence, even if only through a brief conversation.

A New Chapter Begins

Tony DiNozzo’s return marks one of the biggest events in recent NCIS history. His comeback not only reunites fans with one of the franchise’s most beloved characters but also creates opportunities to reconnect with longtime favorites and revisit relationships that helped define the series.

With a full-season story arc ahead, Season 24 has the chance to celebrate the show’s legacy while opening an exciting new chapter for Tony—and the entire NCIS team.