Cote de Pablo is the star of TV’s number-one show (NCIS, of course!) and one of America’s most admired celebrities, according to a recent poll. But you won’t find the talented Chilean actress walking every red carpet or featured on TMZ. As she begins her last season on NCIS, the often-guarded De Pablo reveals her secret to staying grounded—from her fierce loyalty to her roots to her passionate, hands-on approach to playing one of prime time’s strongest characters. De Pablo proves that Hollywood can be conquered on your own terms.

We've rounded up five things (and five exclusive photos from our September cover shoot!) you should (and need) to know about Latina's September 2013 cover girl, Cote de Pablo. Enjoy!

NCIS star Cote de Pablo opens up about her departure from TV’s number-one show this coming season, and tells Latina how she connects with her Chilean roots to stay grounded in Hollywood in the September 2013 issue of Latina, which hits newsstands and Nook Newsstand on August 13, 2013.

This can’t be happening. Cote de Pablo is reportedly leaving CBS’ NCIS, and breaking viewers’ hearts everywhere. For eight of the show’s 10 seasons, the Chilean-born actress has played special agent Ziva David, a former agent for Israel's Mossad.