NCIS paid its final respects to veteran cast member David McCallum in a heartfelt tribute during its latest episode on Monday (19 February).
The Scottish actor played investigator Donald “Ducky” Mallard for two decades, appearing in 20 seasons of the hit TV crime drama.
The NCIS team had revealed plans for a dedicated special final episode to bid farewell to the eccentric and highly efficient character, who had become a firm favourite with fans.
McCallum passed away peacefully of natural causes on September 25th at the age of 90, surrounded by friends at New York Presbyterian Hospital, according to CBS.
In the episode titled “The Stories We Leave Behind,” Jimmy Palmer (portrayed by Brian Dietzen) discovers the investigator’s lifeless body in his bed, clad in his iconic monogrammed pajamas. Ducky is depicted with his face out of the shot, appearing peacefully asleep, as Palmer solemnly observes.
Reflecting on the tribute episode he co-wrote, Dietzen shares that passing away in one’s sleep “isn’t a bad way to go.” Meanwhile, at the NCIS offices, Director Leon Vance (played by Rocky Carroll) emphasizes that McCallum lived a long and fulfilling life, one that should be celebrated above all else.
The episode then goes on to show a montage of scenes from past seasons as the characters reflect on the Mallard.
The team also finish the last case that their friend and colleague was working on, involving the death of a shamed ex-soldier whose daughter suspected the circumstances around his passing had been covered up.
They successfully crack the case and proceed with planning Ducky’s memorial.
The memorial features a special guest appearance by former colleague and partner-in-crime Tony DiNozzo (played by Michael Weatherly).
Weatherly makes a poignant return for the episode, marking his first appearance since departing NCIS in 2016.
McCallum, the last remaining original cast member of the long-running CBS procedural crime drama, joined the cast in 2003.
In the wake of his passing, the network and NCIS studio CBS Studios issued a joint statement expressing their deep sorrow: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of David McCallum and grateful that CBS was his home for so many years.
“David was a gifted actor and author, cherished by many worldwide. He led an extraordinary life, and his legacy will endure through his family and the countless hours of film and television that will forever preserve his memory.”
“We will dearly miss his warmth and infectious sense of humor that brightened every room and set he graced, along with the captivating tales he shared from his rich life experiences. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Katherine, his entire family, and all who knew and cherished David.”
Catch NCIS on CBS at 9pm ET.
The Independent stands as the epitome of free-thinking journalism, offering global news, commentary, and analysis for those who value independence of thought. With a vast, worldwide readership of individuals who appreciate our trusted voice and dedication to fostering positive change, our mission to drive meaningful transformation has never been more crucial.
