Is Tony DiNozzo Returning as NCIS Director? Michael Weatherly’s Comeback Sparks Fan Theories
NCIS fans are still reeling from the shocking death of Leon Vance (Rocky Carroll) in Season 23, which has left the director position open and led to ongoing speculation about who will take over the role.
Now, attention has turned to a major development: Michael Weatherly is set to return as Tony DiNozzo in Season 24, with reports confirming he will appear in a “season-long arc,” according to TVLine and the show’s official social media.
As one of the original cast members, Tony DiNozzo remains a fan-favorite character known for his humor, strong investigative skills, and memorable chemistry with Ziva David (Cote de Pablo). After Ziva was believed to have died—and later revealed to be alive with their daughter—Tony left NCIS in Season 13 to raise their child in Paris.
Weatherly previously returned for a brief cameo in Season 21 following the death of Ducky, and later reunited with de Pablo in the short-lived spinoff NCIS: Tony & Ziva, which followed the pair on an international adventure.
With his return now confirmed, fans are speculating whether Tony could step into a leadership role at NCIS, potentially even as director. On paper, his experience and deep knowledge of the team make him a strong candidate.
However, some question whether his personality fits the role. Tony has never been a strict “rules and regulations” type and has always preferred fieldwork over office leadership, making a permanent desk job seem unlikely.
Others see the move as more of a fan-driven decision aimed at boosting the long-running series, especially as it also follows Mark Harmon’s expanded return as Gibbs in NCIS: Origins.
Whether Ziva will also return remains unknown, but her possible involvement could further complicate both the storyline and Tony’s role.
NCIS Season 24 is set to premiere this fall on CBS, airing Tuesdays.
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