Over the course of its 17-year run, NCIS viewers grew familiar with Donald “Ducky” Mallard, impeccably portrayed by David McCallum, as the team’s enduring and beloved medical examiner. Despite his integral role within the team, Ducky’s personal life remained veiled in mystery. Throughout the series, he occasionally alluded to past relationships, yet there was never any mention of a Mrs. Mallard or a sustained romantic connection.
However, in Season 12, a potential romantic storyline emerged with the introduction of Maggie Clarke, portrayed by Alice Krige. Maggie, Ducky’s childhood friend, added a layer of complexity to his character arc. Despite Ducky harboring feelings for Maggie, she was entangled in an engagement to Angus Clarke, complicating their relationship dynamics. This narrative thread provided insights into Ducky’s emotional depth and history, captivating audiences as they witnessed the complexities of his personal life unfold.
Despite sharing a poignant kiss, Maggie ultimately chose to marry Angus. However, fate intervened when Ducky found himself investigating Angus’s potential involvement in a colleague’s untimely demise during a visit to the UK. Tragically, Angus was murdered, thrusting Ducky into a brief yet intense reconnection with Maggie before he had to return to the United States.
Ducky’s hesitation toward marriage stemmed from witnessing the devastating loss suffered by Agent Leroy Gibbs, whose family fell victim to violence. This poignant experience left an indelible mark on Ducky, instilling in him a deep-seated fear of the potential repercussions of forming romantic attachments.
