In memory of the late David McCallum, an original cast member of NCIS who passed away on September 25 at the age of 90, the show’s upcoming season will feature a special tribute. The second episode of the new season, co-written by longtime cast member Brian Dietzen (Dr. Jimmy Palmer) and executive producer Scott Williams, will address McCallum’s death and honor his iconic character, Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard.
The tribute episode is scheduled to air on February 19, following the premiere of NCIS Season 21 on February 12 at 9/8c. Co-showrunners and executive producers Steven D. Binder and David North expressed the importance of honoring McCallum’s legendary legacy and the impact he had on the NCIS family. The episode will depict the team learning about Ducky’s passing, prompting them to reflect on their memories of him as they mourn. Despite his departure, Ducky, true to his meticulous and compassionate nature, will manage to solve one last crime with the team.
While details about potential cameos or returning cast members remain undisclosed, Binder and North hinted at a touching and special moment in the episode that viewers won’t want to miss. McCallum had been a fixture on the show for all 20 seasons, making occasional remote appearances in the final episodes of Season 20. Following the departure of series lead Mark Harmon in Season 19, McCallum was the last remaining original cast member.
In a statement released at the time of McCallum’s passing, Binder and North praised the actor’s enduring portrayal of Ducky, describing him as a wise, quirky, and enigmatic character who endeared himself to audiences worldwide. They emphasized the honor of working with McCallum, hailing him as a legend who never failed to impress.