Cote de Pablo’s departure from NCIS in 2013 left fans reeling, but the actress has continued to thrive in the years since. Born María José de Pablo Fernández in Santiago, Chile, de Pablo moved to Miami with her family at the age of ten. This significant change would shape her future, as she navigated a new language and culture.
De Pablo’s interest in the arts led her to study music and theater at Carnegie Mellon University. After graduating, she began her career in television, hosting the Latin-themed talk show Control. Her breakout role came in 2005 when she was cast as Ziva David on NCIS. The character’s strength and resilience resonated deeply with de Pablo, who drew parallels between Ziva’s experiences and her own.
During her eight-year stint on NCIS, de Pablo formed a close bond with co-star Mark Harmon. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, but de Pablo has consistently emphasized that their relationship was platonic. Harmon became a mentor and friend to de Pablo, who has spoken fondly of their time working together.
De Pablo’s decision to leave NCIS was motivated by a desire to protect her character’s integrity. She felt that the scripts were no longer doing justice to Ziva’s story, and she didn’t want to compromise her artistic vision. This move was met with both surprise and respect from fans and colleagues alike.
In the years following her departure from NCIS, de Pablo has appeared in various films and projects, including The 33 and Prototype. She has also expressed interest in exploring musical theater, a passion she developed during her time at Carnegie Mellon.
De Pablo’s personal life has been the subject of much speculation, particularly regarding her relationship with actor Diego Serrano. The two dated from 2000 to 2015, but de Pablo has since emphasized her focus on her career and personal growth. When asked about her ideal partner, de Pablo has spoken about the importance of finding someone who values meaningful conversations and vulnerability.
As de Pablo looks to the future, she has expressed her desire to start a family. However, she remains committed to her career, seeking out projects that challenge her and allow her to grow as an artist. With a net worth of $6 million, de Pablo is well-positioned to pursue her passions and continue making a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Cote de Pablo’s legacy on NCIS remains unparalleled, and her influence can still be felt in the world of television. As fans continue to celebrate her iconic character, Ziva David, de Pablo herself remains focused on the future, driven by a passion for storytelling and a commitment to her craft.
