David McCallum’s Biggest Pet Peeve About Mark Harmon on the NCIS Set Will Shock You!

David McCallum’s remarkable career and life story are a testament to his talent, resilience, and passion. Born on September 19, 1933, in Glasgow, Scotland, McCallum grew up in a musical household. His father, David Sr., was an orchestral violinist with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and his mother, Dorothy, was a cellist. Many assumed McCallum would follow in their footsteps—and in a way, he did. Alongside his celebrated acting career, McCallum was also a musician, releasing four albums with Capitol Records in the mid-1960s.

Reflecting on his love for music, McCallum once said, “I always knew that I could turn to music if I failed as an actor.”

Discovering His Passion for Acting

Acting became McCallum’s true calling from a young age. Recalling his first time on stage, he shared, “I played The Little Prince in Shakespeare’s King John at a local production. My role was the little prince having his eyes put out by a terrible man. I acted it, evidently, very well, because I got a standing ovation. I wasn’t more than eight.”

He continued, “I said, ‘Hey, hey, hey, this is kinda cool!’ I don’t know if I consciously thought it, but I had found the place I wanted to be—on a stage, with the lights, makeup, and people. That feeling has never left me.”

McCallum initially pursued music at the Royal Academy of Music in London but eventually shifted to acting, studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.

Rise to Stardom

McCallum left Scotland to chase his acting dreams in Hollywood, where he achieved his breakthrough as secret agent Illya Kuryakin in the 1960s series The Man From U.N.C.L.E.. His performance earned him two Emmy nominations and cemented his place as a television icon.

In his later years, McCallum became widely beloved for his portrayal of Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on the long-running hit series NCIS. His quirky, endearing character brought warmth and depth to the show, where he starred alongside Mark Harmon and Cote de Pablo.

A Life Well Lived

McCallum passed away on September 25, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades. NCIS paid tribute, saying, “David was a gifted actor and author, beloved by many around the world. He led an incredible life, and his legacy will forever live on through his family and the countless hours of film and television that will never fade.”

McCallum himself often referred to NCIS as his “Rock of Gibraltar,” largely because of his close working relationship with Mark Harmon. In turn, Harmon expressed his admiration for McCallum. “I’ll always remember David McCallum,” Harmon said in 2019. “From day one, I thought how fortunate this cast was to work with him, watch his work ethic, and learn from his experience.”

Friendship with Mark Harmon

Though Harmon was known for his playful on-set pranks, McCallum was one of the few spared. During a 2016 Reddit AMA, McCallum explained, “Mark Harmon knows I am not the type to be toyed with.” Their mutual respect and friendship extended far beyond the screen.

McCallum outlasted Harmon’s tenure on NCIS, with Harmon leaving the show in 2022 after appearing in 435 episodes—18 fewer than McCallum.

A Legacy of Love and Talent

McCallum’s extraordinary life was marked by his passion for music, acting, and storytelling. From his early days in Scotland to his iconic roles in Hollywood, McCallum inspired countless fans and colleagues. His memory will endure through his work and the love he shared with those around him.

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