Digest

This episode of Off-Duty, an NCIS rewatch podcast, continues the discussion of "Kill Ari Part One" with special guest Sasha Alexander. The hosts delve into Sasha's experience with fight scenes, revealing that she didn't have extensive training but relied on her dance background and quick learning ability. They also discuss the unique challenge of playing her own corpse in the episode, highlighting Sasha's dedication and the creative choices made to portray her character's death. The episode concludes with a Gibbs rule of the day, "Never go anywhere without a knife," and a teaser for the next episode, which will focus on "Kill Ari Part Two."

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the hosts, Michael Weatherly and Cody DiPablo, and the podcast, Off-Duty, which focuses on rewatching NCIS episodes. They announce the episode they will be discussing, "Kill Ari Part One," and introduce their special guest, Sasha Alexander, who played Ziva David.

00:01:17

Context: September 20th, 2005

This Chapter provides context for the episode's release date, September 20th, 2005, by highlighting notable events of the day, including Kanye West's "Gold Digger" topping the charts and Hurricane Rita intensifying.

00:02:55

Synopsis of "Kill Ari Part One"

This Chapter summarizes the plot of "Kill Ari Part One," focusing on the aftermath of Kate Todd's death, the introduction of Ziva David, and the arrival of a new director. It also highlights the episode's cliffhanger ending.

00:42:32

How Well Do You Know Your Partner?

This Chapter features a fun game where Cody tests Sasha's knowledge of Michael's preferences and vice versa. The questions range from personal preferences to their experiences on NCIS, providing insights into their personalities and their bond.

00:46:31

Work-Life Balance and Directing

This Chapter delves into the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance on a high-pressure show like NCIS. Sasha shares her experiences after leaving NCIS and the choices she made to prioritize her personal life. Michael discusses his experience directing "Bull" and the importance of finding directors who understand and appreciate the characters they portray.

00:51:36

Closing Thoughts and Farewell

This Chapter concludes the episode with heartfelt reflections on the lasting impact of NCIS and the special relationships forged during their time on the show. They express their gratitude to Sasha for joining them and look forward to future collaborations.

00:52:46

Fan Questions and Fight Scenes

This Chapter features a fan question about Sasha Alexander's fight scene training in NCIS. Sasha reveals that she didn't have extensive training but relied on her dance background and quick learning ability. She also discusses the unique challenge of playing her own corpse in the episode, highlighting her dedication and the creative choices made to portray her character's death.

00:58:44

Gibbs Rule of the Day

This Chapter features a segment where Michael Weatherly shares a Gibbs rule of the day, "Never go anywhere without a knife." He explains how this rule resonated with him as an actor, given his character's frequent use of knives. The segment also includes a brief discussion about the upcoming episode, "Kill Ari Part Two."

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some notable events that happened on September 20th, 2005, the day "Kill Ari Part One" was released?

  On September 20th, 2005, Kanye West's "Gold Digger" topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, the movie "Just Like Heaven" starring Reese Witherspoon and Mark Ruffalo was at the top of the box office, and Hurricane Rita intensified into a Category 5 hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico.

• What are some of the key plot points of "Kill Ari Part One"?

  The episode deals with the aftermath of Kate Todd's death, the introduction of Ziva David as a new agent, and the arrival of a new director who shares a history with Gibbs. It also features a cliffhanger ending that leaves viewers wanting more.

• How did Sasha Alexander's journey into acting begin?

  Sasha Alexander started her career as a dancer, even participating in the pilot for the popular dance show "In Living Color." However, she ultimately decided to pursue film school at USC, where she focused on directing and production.

• What are some of the challenges Sasha Alexander faced as a young actress in a male-dominated industry?

  Sasha Alexander found it difficult to be taken seriously as a young female director in a male-dominated industry. She also encountered directors who didn't understand or appreciate the characters they were portraying, which she found frustrating.

• What are some of the unique aspects of working on a long-running television series like NCIS?

  Working on a long-running series like NCIS requires a high level of commitment and dedication, as actors are often required to film 24 episodes a year. It also creates a unique bond between cast members, who spend a significant amount of time together both on and off set.

• How did the experience of working on NCIS influence Sasha Alexander's career choices after leaving the show?

  After leaving NCIS, Sasha Alexander sought out roles that offered a better balance between work and personal life. She also learned the importance of finding projects that allow her to fully explore and develop her characters.

• What are some of the challenges and rewards of directing a television show?

  Directing a television show can be challenging, especially when working with a large cast and crew. However, it can also be incredibly rewarding, as it allows directors to bring their vision to life and collaborate with talented actors and crew members.

• What are some of the key takeaways from the "How Well Do You Know Your Partner?" game?

  The game highlights the close bond between Michael Weatherly and Sasha Alexander, as well as their shared experiences and memories from their time on NCIS. It also reveals some interesting insights into their personalities and preferences.

• What are some of the lasting impacts of NCIS on the lives of the cast members?

  NCIS has had a profound impact on the lives of the cast members, both professionally and personally. It has created lasting friendships and memories, and it has helped to shape their careers and perspectives.

• How did Sasha Alexander prepare for her fight scenes in NCIS?

  Sasha Alexander didn't have extensive fight training but relied on her dance background and quick learning ability. She would work with a fight coordinator during short breaks between scenes, picking up the movements quickly.

• What was Sasha Alexander's experience like playing her own corpse in "Kill Ari Part One"?

  Sasha Alexander found it a fun and interesting challenge to play her own corpse in the episode. She was generous and game to play the role, even wearing a Catholic school girl outfit for a scene where Gibbs is fantasizing about her.

• What is the Gibbs rule of the day shared in this episode?

  The Gibbs rule of the day shared in this episode is "Never go anywhere without a knife." Michael Weatherly explains how this rule resonated with him as an actor, given his character's frequent use of knives.

Show Notes