When David McCallum, beloved for his role as “Ducky” the long-serving medical examiner on NCIS, passed away, the TV family mourned not just the actor but also the character he portrayed. It was only fitting for NCIS to dedicate an episode to honor both the man and the character he brought to life. However, this special episode became even more memorable with the unexpected return of Michael Weatherly’s Tony DiNozzo.
In the episode’s final moments, DiNozzo makes a surprise appearance to talk to Jimmy, the current medical examiner played by Brian Dietzen, who had once served as Ducky’s assistant before succeeding him upon his retirement. Co-star Sean Murray, speaking with TVInsider, described the moment, co-written by Dietzen, as “perfect,” adding just the right touch of humor to an otherwise somber occasion. Murray explained…
“And I think that ending moment was just the perfect right amount of old school NCIS levity that you needed. There was just a touch of it. It was a really special thing with Tony coming in and passing the bow tie off to Palmer. I always loved the relationship that Tony and Jimmy have, too, which is funny. He always calls him Autopsy Gremlin, which, anytime Tony nicknames you, it is a term of endearment as far as he goes.”
The handling of the show undoubtedly honored both the actor and the enduring character he portrayed for so many years. Additionally, the episode cleverly incorporated a couple of Easter egg references to McCallum’s previous roles in “The Great Escape” and “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” Ducky’s presence will undoubtedly continue to linger in the hearts and minds of the NCIS cast and fans alike.
