NCIS Pays Tribute to David McCallum: Ducky’s Most Memorable Episodes Ranked! Click to Relive the Heartfelt Moments!
NCIS pays tribute to David McCallum, renowned for his portrayal of Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, who passed away at the age of 90 in September 2023. Season 21 of the show honors both his character and the actor’s remarkable contributions. In a special February 19 episode co-written by Brian Dietzen, who plays Dr. Jimmy Palmer, the series commemorates McCallum by highlighting Ducky’s most memorable moments. The memorial episode aims to strike a balance between sadness and celebration, acknowledging the significant impact McCallum had on the show.
In Season 1, Episode 16, titled “Bête Noire,” viewers witness a tense situation as rogue Mossad officer Ari Haswari infiltrates an autopsy, taking Ducky and his assistant Gerald hostage. Despite the danger, Ducky remains composed and adapts to the circumstances until help arrives, setting the stage for future events involving Ari.
“Meat Puzzle,” Season 2, Episode 13, not only features the intriguing mystery of body parts in barrels but also provides a heartwarming glimpse into Ducky’s personal life as he returns home to visit his mother and her corgis.
Season 6, Episode 13, titled “Broken Bird,” offers a rare insight into Ducky’s emotional history as he confronts accusations of killing his brother at a crime scene, leading to a journey into his past with the Royal Army Medical Corps and encounters with Mr. Pain.
In Season 10, Episode 3, titled “Phoenix,” Ducky’s refusal to stay idle despite recovering from a heart attack leads him to uncover discrepancies in an old autopsy, showcasing his dedication to his work and unique interrogation techniques.
Season 10, Episode 16, “Detour,” sees Ducky and Palmer kidnapped and forced to perform an autopsy in a cabin in the woods, highlighting their resourcefulness and teamwork.
“So It Goes,” Season 12, Episode 3, introduces Adam Campbell as a young Ducky, delving into his past and reuniting him with a lost love, providing further depth to his character.
In Season 13, Episode 11, “Spinning Wheel,” a surprise twist reveals Ducky’s previously unknown younger brother, Nicholas, showcasing McCallum’s acting prowess in a heartfelt storyline.
Season 14, Episode 10, “The Tie That Binds,” explores Ducky’s past and his relationship with his mother, shedding light on his decision-making and moral dilemmas.
Episode 400, titled “Everything Starts Somewhere,” in Season 18, delves into the origin of Gibbs and Ducky’s relationship, offering insight into their bond over the years.
In Season 20, Episodes 21 and 22, titled “Kompromat” and “Black Sky,” Ducky’s limited screen presence remains critical to the case as he provides insights and references, showcasing his unrivaled knowledge once again.
