Emotional Rollercoaster: David McCallum’s Final ‘NCIS’ Episode – The Farewell That Will Leave You Speechless!

The world mourned the passing of David McCallum, known for his role as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on “NCIS,” at the age of 90. McCallum, a lifelong actor, left an indelible mark on television through his roles in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, including Illya Kuryakin on “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.,” Simon Carter on “Colditz,” and Steel on “Sapphire & Steel.”

Despite his prolific career, McCallum did not receive a farewell on “NCIS” comparable to his co-star Mark Harmon’s departure in 2021. His appearances as Ducky were sporadic during the most recent season, and his brief role in the Season 20 finale, “Black Sky,” turned out to be his final performance due to his passing.

While the lack of a grand send-off was notable, it’s important to acknowledge that Ducky’s presence on “NCIS” had already diminished 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 presence in more than half of a season’s episodes occurred during the 16th season, which aired from 2018 to 2019. After that, his appearances became less frequent each year.

In a November 2022 interview with Radio Times, McCallum expressed a sense of disconnect when appearing on “NCIS” after many of his co-stars had left the show. He admitted, “When I go there, it’s like being in a different show. It doesn’t quite make sense anymore.” “NCIS” executive producer Charles Floyd Johnson acknowledged McCallum’s reduced presence, stating, “David McCallum doesn’t do that much in the series anymore. It’s become far too difficult for him, and I believe he’s ready to retire.”

While McCallum never officially left or retired before his passing, the delayed production of new “NCIS” episodes due to strikes prevented him from recording additional scenes after the Season 20 finale. Whether he had plans to return remains unanswered, but fans can celebrate the substantial number of episodes in which McCallum’s Ducky appeared over his 20-year tenure on the show.