The culmination of years of simmering tension and unspoken feelings, Ziva David and Tony DiNozzo’s “official” romantic union, in the eyes of many NCIS fans, is a complex and nuanced matter, primarily existing off-screen after Ziva’s presumed death. While there’s no definitive on-screen moment of them becoming a couple during Ziva’s active years on the show, the revelation in Season 13, Episode 24, “Family First”, that they had a daughter, Tali, firmly establishes that they did get together at some point before Ziva went into hiding.
Unpacking the “Tiva” Relationship: A Timeline of Tension and Revelation
The dynamic between Ziva and Tony was a cornerstone of NCIS for years. Their playful banter, underlying attraction, and shared experiences built a connection that captivated viewers. However, the showrunners deliberately prolonged their romantic entanglement, fueling speculation and debate amongst fans. To fully understand the “when” and “how” of their relationship, we need to examine key milestones.
The Early Years: Seeds of Affection
From Ziva’s introduction in Season 3, the sparks between her and Tony were undeniable. Their contrasting personalities – Tony’s wisecracking demeanor and Ziva’s serious intensity – created a magnetic pull. The constant teasing, undercover operations, and life-or-death situations forced them to rely on each other, fostering a deep bond. Moments like the infamous elevator scene and their shared experiences during investigations hinted at something more than just friendship.
Ziva’s Departure and the Aftermath
Ziva’s departure from NCIS in Season 11 left a significant void, not just for Tony, but for the entire team. Tony struggled with her absence, but remained loyal to his feelings for Ziva. Then, in Season 13, the unthinkable happened: Ziva was reported killed in a mortar attack in Israel. This news devastated Tony, but also triggered a series of revelations that redefined their relationship.
“Family First”: The Game-Changing Revelation
The episode “Family First” is pivotal. While Ziva is presumed dead, Tony discovers that she had a daughter named Tali. This revelation confirms that Ziva and Tony had a relationship that resulted in a child, even if the specifics of their romantic union were never explicitly shown. The implication is clear: they were more than just colleagues and friends; they were a couple. Tony’s decision to leave NCIS to care for Tali further underscores the depth of his love for Ziva, even in her apparent absence.
Ziva’s Return and Hope for the Future
The shocking return of Ziva in Season 16 reignited the “Tiva” flame. While their reunion was brief, it provided a glimmer of hope for a future together. The fact that Ziva had faked her death to protect Tali and was actively hunting down those who threatened her proved that her love for her family was her driving force. While their ultimate fate remains open for interpretation, the series finale left viewers with the impression that they were working towards a life together, with Tali, in Paris.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ziva and Tony’s Relationship
Here are answers to some of the most common questions surrounding the “Tiva” relationship on NCIS:
FAQ 1: Was there ever an on-screen kiss between Ziva and Tony before her departure?
While there were several close calls and moments of intense eye contact, the only on-screen kiss between Ziva and Tony before her departure occurred under the influence of a truth serum in Season 7, Episode 1, “Truth or Consequences.” This kiss, however, was shrouded in uncertainty due to their altered states, making it difficult to interpret its true meaning.
FAQ 2: When did Tony find out about Tali?
Tony discovered Tali’s existence in Season 13, Episode 24, “Family First,” after Ziva was presumed dead in a mortar attack. He learned this from a letter that Ziva had written.
FAQ 3: Why didn’t Ziva tell Tony about Tali?
The show suggests that Ziva kept Tali a secret to protect both her and Tony from potential threats. Her life in hiding was dangerous, and she believed that keeping them separate was the safest course of action.
FAQ 4: Did Tony and Ziva ever get married?
The show never explicitly states that Tony and Ziva got married. However, the implication throughout Ziva’s return and the series’ conclusion strongly suggested that they were planning a life together as a family.
FAQ 5: What was the significance of Tony leaving NCIS after learning about Tali?
Tony’s decision to leave NCIS was a powerful testament to his love for Ziva and his commitment to being a father to Tali. It showed that his priorities had shifted, and he was willing to sacrifice his career to ensure their safety and well-being.
FAQ 6: How did the other members of the NCIS team react to the news of Tali?
The NCIS team was surprised and emotional upon learning about Tali. They were happy for Tony but also saddened by the presumed loss of Ziva. They all rallied around Tony to support him during this difficult time.
FAQ 7: What were the fan reactions to the “Tiva” relationship?
The “Tiva” relationship was one of the most popular and hotly debated aspects of NCIS. Fans were deeply invested in their romance, and their reactions to the various twists and turns in their storyline were passionate and often divided.
FAQ 8: How did Ziva fake her death?
The details of Ziva’s faked death were never fully explained on-screen. However, it was implied that she had help from trusted contacts within the intelligence community, allowing her to disappear and operate in secrecy.
FAQ 9: What was Ziva doing during her time in hiding?
During her time in hiding, Ziva was attempting to dismantle a terrorist organization that posed a threat to her and Tali. This was the reason for her secrecy and the need to keep her distance from Tony.
FAQ 10: Did Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo) decide to leave NCIS because of Cote de Pablo’s (Ziva David) departure?
While Cote de Pablo’s departure undoubtedly influenced the show’s dynamics, Michael Weatherly’s decision to leave NCIS was primarily driven by his desire to pursue new acting opportunities.
FAQ 11: What is the current status of Tony and Ziva’s relationship?
The last viewers saw, Tony and Ziva were working toward reuniting with Tali in Paris. While their future is left somewhat open-ended, the clear implication is that they are together and building a life as a family.
FAQ 12: Will we ever see Tony and Ziva back on NCIS again?
While there are no confirmed plans for Tony and Ziva to return to NCIS at this time, the possibility remains open. Many fans continue to hope for a future appearance from the beloved couple. With new spin-offs and the continued success of the original series, anything is possible. The door, many speculate, is always open.