Cote de Pablo was born as María José de Pablo Fernández on November 12, 1979, in Santiago, Chile. Her early years were shaped by strong family ties and an upbringing surrounded by music, culture, and television—her mother, María Olga Fernández, was a well-known TV presenter. At age 10, her life took a dramatic shift when the family relocated to Miami, Florida, due to her mother’s job opportunity with Telemundo.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | María José de Pablo Fernández |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Cote de Pablo |
| Date of Birth | November 12, 1979 |
| Birthplace | Santiago, Chile |
| Age | 45 (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 m) |
| Nationality | Chilean-American |
| Education | BFA in Musical Theater, Carnegie Mellon University |
| Famous Role | Ziva David on NCIS |
| Estimated Net Worth | $6–9 million |
| Marital Status | Not married |
Finding Identity Through a Name
Adjusting to a new culture and language in the U.S. wasn’t easy. Her given name, María José, was often mispronounced by her peers. Embracing her Chilean roots, she adopted the nickname “Cote”, a common Chilean short form of María José. That small change helped her settle in and begin building her new identity.
Passion for Performing Emerges Early
Cote’s passion for performance flourished during her school years. She attended Arvida Middle School and later joined the New World School of the Arts, a prestigious performing arts school in Miami. There, she honed her interest in music and acting, focusing heavily on theater. By her teens, it was clear she was pursuing more than just a hobby—it was a calling.
From Carnegie Mellon to Center Stage
After high school, Cote pursued professional training in acting. She enrolled at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, known for its top-tier theater program. She graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theater, appearing in university productions such as The Fantasticks, A Little Night Music, and And the World Goes ‘Round. Her well-rounded training in acting, music, and movement laid the foundation for a multifaceted career.
Breakthrough on Univision
Cote’s first television job came surprisingly early. At just 15 years old, she co-hosted the Spanish-language talk show Control on Univision. Sharing the screen with Carlos Ponce, this experience gave her a taste of what it was like to work in front of the camera. Although short-lived, the role was a formative introduction to broadcast media.
Humble Beginnings in New York
Like many aspiring actors, Cote moved to New York City after graduation to pursue her dream. She supported herself by working at restaurants while auditioning for roles. She appeared in small television parts, including The $treet, The Education of Max Bickford, and a short-lived legal drama called The Jury in 2004. Despite minor roles, her talent was evident, and it wouldn’t be long before a bigger opportunity arrived.
The Role That Changed Everything
In 2005, Cote auditioned for NCIS—a procedural drama that was growing in popularity. She landed the role of Ziva David, an Israeli Mossad officer turned NCIS agent. Her chemistry with co-star Michael Weatherly and her commanding screen presence quickly made her a fan favorite. She was initially introduced in season 3 but became a series regular almost instantly.
Ziva David: A Television Icon
Ziva wasn’t a typical TV character. She was intelligent, skilled in combat, and emotionally complex. Cote brought a unique balance of strength and vulnerability to the role. She earned widespread acclaim, winning the Imagen Award for Best Supporting Actress in Television in 2006, and the ALMA Award in 2011 for Outstanding Actress in a Drama.
Leaving NCIS at the Peak
In 2013, after eight seasons and nearly 200 episodes, Cote made the bold decision to leave NCIS. She later revealed that creative differences regarding her character’s direction influenced her departure. Fans were heartbroken, but respected her choice. Ziva was written out of the series in season 11, though the door was left open for her return.
A Triumphant Comeback
To the delight of long-time viewers, Ziva made a surprise appearance in the final scene of season 16’s finale in 2019. Her return continued into early season 17, marking an emotional reunion with fans and fellow cast members. The cameo was brief but memorable, reminding audiences why her character had made such a lasting impact.
Stepping Into Film and New Roles
Outside of NCIS, Cote explored roles in film and television. She starred in the biblical miniseries The Dovekeepers (2015) and played Jessica Vega in the critically noted Chilean-American film The 33, based on the real-life story of trapped miners in Chile. Her performance was praised, earning her another Imagen Award.
Upcoming Project: NCIS – Tony & Ziva
In an exciting development, Cote will reprise her iconic role in NCIS: Tony & Ziva, a new spinoff series expected in 2025. The series, which follows Ziva, Tony, and their daughter in Europe, will also see her stepping into a producer role. This move showcases her growth from actress to creative force.
Singing Talent and Musical Legacy
Not just an actress, Cote is a trained vocalist. She performed “Temptation” by Tom Waits during an NCIS episode, a rendition that was later released on the show’s official soundtrack. She also recorded “Cry Me a River” and “Samba in Prelude” with jazz musician Roberto Pitre. Her voice, sultry and refined, adds another layer to her artistic portfolio.
Physical Appearance and Poise
Cote stands at approximately 5 feet 7 inches (1.70m) and is known for her dark hair, deep brown eyes, and an effortlessly elegant demeanor. Whether in action sequences or red carpet events, her presence is marked by grace and confidence.
Personal Life: Quiet and Reserved
Despite her fame, Cote remains intensely private. She was in a long-term relationship with actor Diego Serrano for several years, but the couple separated in 2015. She is not married and does not have children. Cote has chosen to focus on her career and personal growth rather than the spotlight.
Social Media Presence
Unlike many celebrities, Cote does not have official social media accounts. While fans often tag her in tributes and fan pages, she has deliberately stayed off platforms like Instagram and Twitter. This privacy has only deepened her mystique and allowed her to stay grounded.
Financial Success and Net Worth
Thanks to her long tenure on NCIS and additional projects, Cote de Pablo’s estimated net worth is between $6 million and $9 million. She reportedly earned $120,000 per episode during her peak on NCIS, placing her among the highest-paid actresses on network TV during that time.
A Lasting Influence
Cote’s legacy lies not only in the awards she’s won or the episodes she’s filmed, but in the character she gave life to. Ziva David became a role model for strong, independent women on television, especially for Latina and Middle Eastern representation. She portrayed complexity and emotional depth in ways that resonated globally.
Final Thoughts
Cote de Pablo’s story is one of quiet strength, focused ambition, and deep authenticity. From her early roots in Chile to her rise in American television, she has remained grounded and selective about her work. Her decision to walk away from fame when necessary—and return when it felt right—shows integrity and wisdom. Whether as Ziva David or as a producer shaping future stories, Cote continues to be a figure of respect, resilience, and lasting talent.
FAQs About Cote de Pablo
1. What is Cote de Pablo’s real name?
Her real name is María José de Pablo Fernández, but she goes by “Cote,” a common nickname in Chile.
2. How tall is Cote de Pablo?
Cote de Pablo is approximately 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 meters) tall.
3. Is Cote de Pablo married?
No, Cote de Pablo is not married and has no children. She was previously in a long-term relationship with actor Diego Serrano.
4. What is Cote de Pablo’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between $6 million and $9 million, primarily earned from her work on NCIS and other acting projects.
5. Does Cote de Pablo use social media?
No, Cote prefers to stay off social media. She has no official accounts, though several fan pages exist.
