NCIS Fans Crown Their Favorite Actor – And It’s a Surprising Choice!
The long-running CBS drama NCIS has built a loyal fanbase over the years, thanks to its gripping storylines, complex characters, and stellar performances from its ensemble cast. While the show’s popularity has often been associated with its leading stars like Mark Harmon, who played Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, or fan favorites like Michael Weatherly’s Tony DiNozzo, fans have recently spoken out to reveal their pick for the best actor on the show. Surprisingly, the top choice isn’t one of the usual suspects.
A New Spotlight on an Underrated Star
In a poll and subsequent discussions on fan forums and social media, viewers praised one actor in particular for their nuanced performance and memorable impact on the series. That actor? David McCallum, who portrayed the beloved Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard.
Though McCallum may not have been as prominently featured in action-packed scenes, fans noted that his portrayal of the team’s eccentric and deeply empathetic medical examiner brought a unique warmth and depth to the show. His character often acted as a moral compass, offering sage advice and heartfelt anecdotes that resonated with both the team and the audience.
One fan commented, “Ducky is the heart of NCIS. David McCallum has a way of delivering even the simplest lines with so much emotion and wisdom. You can’t help but feel connected to him.” Another added, “He’s not just the best actor on NCIS, but one of the best actors on TV, period.”
A Legacy of Talent
McCallum, a veteran actor with a career spanning decades, first gained fame in the 1960s as Illya Kuryakin in The Man from U.N.C.L.E.. His ability to breathe life into Ducky’s character was no surprise to those familiar with his previous work, but his performance on NCIS allowed a new generation of viewers to witness his range and talent.
Beyond McCallum, fans also gave honorable mentions to other cast members, such as Pauley Perrette (Abby Sciuto), Sean Murray (Timothy McGee), and Cote de Pablo (Ziva David). Each brought their own unique flair to the show, but for many, McCallum’s Ducky stood out as a masterclass in acting.
Why the Choice Matters
The discussion around the “best actor” on NCIS highlights how audiences often gravitate toward the quieter, more emotionally resonant performances rather than the flashiest or most action-oriented roles. While Gibbs may have been the backbone of the team, and DiNozzo the comic relief, it was Ducky’s steady presence that truly tied the team together.
As one fan aptly put it, “Actors like David McCallum remind us that the quiet moments can sometimes speak the loudest.”
