NCIS Season 21 pays heartfelt homage to the late David McCallum, beloved for his portrayal of Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, who passed away at 90 in September 2023. In a special episode airing on February 19, co-written by Brian Dietzen (Dr. Jimmy Palmer), the show honors McCallum by revisiting Ducky’s iconic moments. This memorial episode seeks to strike a delicate balance between solemn remembrance and joyful celebration, recognizing the profound impact McCallum had on the series.
Season 1, Episode 16, “Bête Noire,” thrusts viewers into a tense standoff as rogue Mossad officer Ari Haswari disrupts an autopsy, holding Ducky and his assistant Gerald hostage. Ducky’s calm demeanor and quick thinking in the face of danger set the stage for future encounters with Ari.
In Season 2, Episode 13, “Meat Puzzle,” the team grapples with a grisly mystery involving body parts in barrels, while Ducky’s visit home offers a touching glimpse into his personal life and his bond with his mother and her corgis.
Season 6, Episode 13, “Broken Bird,” delves deep into Ducky’s emotional past as he confronts accusations of fratricide, unraveling his history with the Royal Army Medical Corps and his encounters with Mr. Pain.
In Season 10, Episode 3, “Phoenix,” Ducky’s determination to continue working after a heart attack leads him to uncover discrepancies in an old autopsy, showcasing his unwavering dedication and unique investigative methods.
Episode 16 of Season 10, “Detour,” throws Ducky and Palmer into a harrowing situation, kidnapped and forced to conduct an autopsy in a remote cabin, highlighting their resourcefulness and teamwork.
Season 12, Episode 3, “So It Goes,” introduces a young Ducky, exploring his past and reigniting a lost romance, adding layers to his character.
In Season 13, Episode 11, “Spinning Wheel,” a surprising revelation about Ducky’s previously unknown brother, Nicholas, showcases McCallum’s acting prowess in a heartfelt storyline.
Season 14, Episode 10, “The Tie That Binds,” delves into Ducky’s past and his complex relationship with his mother, shedding light on his moral compass.
Episode 400 of Season 18, “Everything Starts Somewhere,” uncovers the origins of Gibbs and Ducky’s enduring friendship, offering insight into their bond over the years.
Finally, in Season 20, Episodes 21 and 22, “Kompromat” and “Black Sky,” Ducky’s limited but crucial role in the case highlights his unparalleled knowledge and expertise.
