The new Paramount+ series, NCIS: Tony & Ziva, featuring Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo, recently stirred conversations regarding the use of intimacy coordinators in television. Despite the show’s romantic undertones, both actors opted not to work with an intimacy coordinator, a decision they discussed during promotional events.
As the series aired alongside other installments of the NCIS franchise, including NCIS, NCIS: Origins, and NCIS: Sydney, the chemistry between Weatherly and de Pablo was evident. Although their show has since been cancelled following its first season, the response to their performances highlighted the evolving landscape of intimacy in entertainment.
During a recent interview, de Pablo explained their rationale. “We had the chance to use an intimacy coordinator, and I understand why people do it and I completely respect it,” she stated. “That being said, Michael and I have known each other for 20 years. We were going to work those beats out with a director, a closed set, a writer, Michael and I.”
The actors prioritized a collaborative approach, carefully crafting their intimate scenes. De Pablo emphasized that their planning ensured clarity and respect for each other’s boundaries. “It wasn’t like we were just sort of free flowing. The director wanted something, the writer had something very specific in mind,” she affirmed.
Exploring Romantic Dynamics
The relationship between Weatherly and de Pablo’s characters, Tony and Ziva, has long captivated NCIS fans. In NCIS: Tony & Ziva, the characters navigate a blend of nostalgia and renewed connection, as they co-parent their daughter, Tali. The series employed flashbacks to showcase their romantic history, adding depth to their current dynamics.
De Pablo elaborated on the moments leading up to their characters’ intimate interactions. “There was this sort of old young romantic thing which is ageless,” she noted. “It’s filled with all that stuff. It’s the butterflies.” This vibrant description highlights the giddy, youthful energy that permeated their scenes.
The choice to forgo an intimacy coordinator was rooted in trust. De Pablo remarked, “Of course, I feel having maybe another person there for Michael and I wasn’t necessary. I think we trusted each other enough, and it was a very organic exploration of romance.” This sentiment underscores the importance of collaborative relationships in the creative process.
Reception and Future Prospects
Despite its cancellation, NCIS: Tony & Ziva garnered a strong following. Fans expressed disappointment over the show’s abrupt end, feeling that there was much more to explore in the storyline. De Pablo reflected on the season, stating, “It captured the flirtiness. It captured the innocence. It captured the, ‘Oh God, what are we doing? Are we gonna fall back into this?’”
The emotional arc presented in the series resonated with viewers, particularly as the characters navigated complex feelings while attempting to rekindle their romance. As the story unfolded, Tali’s acceptance of her parents’ relationship added a heartwarming dimension.
Though the series has concluded, many hope to see Weatherly and de Pablo return to their roles in future NCIS projects. “It’s just a shame we won’t get to see them front and center in the NCIS-verse again,” one fan commented. The potential for a crossover remains a topic of discussion among the show’s dedicated audience.
As NCIS and its spin-offs continue to air, the dialogue around intimacy in television is likely to persist. With the entertainment industry evolving, the decisions made by actors like Weatherly and de Pablo contribute to a broader understanding of intimacy in storytelling. Their experience emphasizes the significance of trust and collaboration in portraying complex relationships on screen.
