Anna Daniels
Tony’s end on the show was a spectacular culmination of his narrative and character development. In the season 13 finale, we see him mourn the (alleged) death of Ziva, with whom he had a deeply complicated, but loving, relationship. As if that wasn’t enough of an emotional burden, it’s revealed to Tony after the farm where Ziva had been hiding out was blown up that the former Mossad agent had given birth to their child. It’s a secret she’d kept from him to avoid complicating both of their lives.
Although Tony is shocked by the announcement, he takes to the idea of fatherhood quickly. By the end of the episode, Ziva’s (alleged) killer has been taken down by the team, and Tony has made a decision: He is going to step away from NCIS to focus on raising his daughter and rebuilding his life after the (alleged) death of his great love. Of course, everyone is devastated by his departure, but understanding of his situation. It’s one of the most emotional send-offs in the history of the series and, considering how many NCIS agents leave the show in body bags, it’s a touching farewell for audiences who have come to love Tony.
Even though Tony’s storyline wrapped up nicely, had Michael Weatherly wanted to continue playing the character, it’s unlikely that Tony would have left the show at the end of season 13. So why, exactly, did Weatherly decide to step away from NCIS after such a long run?
Written by: Looper
