The world mourns the loss of “NCIS” icon David McCallum, who passed away at 90. With a storied career spanning the 1960s to the 1980s, McCallum left an indelible mark on television, starring as Illya Kuryakin in “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.,” Simon Carter in “Colditz,” and Steel in “Sapphire & Steel.” However, it was his unforgettable portrayal of Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on the enduring CBS procedural “NCIS” that cemented his legacy as one of the greatest TV actors of his era.
David McCallum’s departure from “NCIS” didn’t receive the same fanfare as co-star Mark Harmon’s exit in 2021. Despite sporadic appearances throughout the most recent season, McCallum’s final performance as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard came in the Season 20 finale, “Black Sky,” before his passing.
While his role in the episode was minor, Ducky provided crucial information to Alden Parker (Gary Cole) and Leon Vance (Rocky Carroll) about their latest target. Despite the lack of a grand farewell, it’s important to note that Ducky’s presence on “NCIS” had been dwindling in the years leading up to McCallum’s final appearance.
During Season 20, McCallum appeared in only four episodes, consistent with the prior season. His last significant involvement in more than half a season’s episodes occurred during Season 16 (2018-2019). In a November 2022 interview with Radio Times, McCallum expressed feeling disconnected on “NCIS” as many of his former co-stars had left the show. “When I go there, it’s like being in a different show,” he confessed.
Executive producer Charles Floyd Johnson acknowledged McCallum’s reduced presence, stating, “David McCallum doesn’t do that much in the series anymore. He could return for four or five episodes. It’s become far too difficult for him, and I believe he’s ready to retire.” Despite never officially leaving or retiring from “NCIS,” McCallum didn’t have the chance to record additional scenes due to this year’s WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, which delayed new episode production.
Whether he planned to return or not remains unanswered, but fans can celebrate McCallum’s substantial contribution over his 20-year tenure on the show.
