Is ‘Ducky’ Star David McCallum Truly Unrecognizable in His 1970s Role? Remembering the Late Star.
David McCallum, the beloved Scottish actor, known for his iconic roles in both “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” and “NCIS,” has passed away at the age of 90, leaving behind a remarkable and enduring legacy.
Born into a musical family, McCallum initially pursued a career in acting, studying at the Royal Academy of Music and later training at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He began his career in entertainment on BBC Radio before transitioning to screen acting.
McCallum gained widespread fame for his role as agent Illya Kuryakin in “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” However, he found a new generation of fans as Dr. Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard on the popular CBS series “NCIS,” where he played a pivotal role over the last two decades.
Throughout his career, McCallum took on various significant roles in both film and television, including “The Great Escape,” “Sapphire & Steel,” “The Invisible Man,” “Kidnapped,” and “Colditz.” More recently, he lent his voice to children’s TV shows like “Batman vs. Robin” and “Ben 10.”
One lesser-known aspect of his career was a small role in the 1970s TV series “Marcus Welby M.D.” He appeared in one episode as college professor Brian Kenny, a character who gave up a promising writing career to care for his brother. In this role, McCallum looked quite different, sporting longer hair and a mustache to portray an academic figure.
Following the announcement of McCallum’s passing from natural causes, tributes poured in from his “NCIS” family and former co-stars. The official NCIS Instagram account paid homage to the actor, highlighting his incredible talents and warmth. Several “NCIS” cast members, including Sean Murray, Brian Dietzen, LL Cool J, Emily Wickersham, and Michael Weatherly, also paid their respects.
The show is expected to create a tribute to McCallum when the next season airs, following the resolution of the SAG-AFTRA strikes. David McCallum’s contributions to the world of entertainment and the love and warmth he shared with his colleagues and fans will be cherished and remembered always.
