Fans of actress Cote de Pablo were left heartbroken this week after the beloved NCIS star made an emotional announcement. In a candid video posted to social media, de Pablo appeared with tears in her eyes as she revealed she has been going through a deeply personal loss. “This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to share,” she said, her voice trembling. “I’ve always tried to keep my personal life private, but I wanted to be honest with all of you who have supported me through the years.”

Though she didn’t go into full detail, Cote shared that she has recently lost someone very close to her—someone she described as a “guiding light” in her life. “It’s hard to find the words,” she admitted. “Grief is such a strange and overwhelming emotion. I just want to say thank you for your love, your messages, and for understanding that I may need some time.”

Fans immediately flooded her comments with messages of support, sending love and strength to the actress known for her role as Ziva David. While Cote didn’t clarify when she’ll return to work, she assured fans that she’s taking the time she needs to heal. “This isn’t goodbye,” she said. “It’s just… a moment of pause. I know the love I feel from you all, and it gives me courage.