NCIS Pays Final Respects to David McCallum:
In a poignant and heartfelt episode titled “The Stories We Leave Behind,” NCIS bid farewell to beloved star David McCallum, who portrayed the eccentric yet brilliant investigator Donald “Ducky” Mallard for two decades. McCallum, the last remaining original cast member on the long-running series, passed away on September 25 at the age of 90.
The episode, which opened with a touching scene of Jimmy Palmer (played by Brian Dietzen, who also co-wrote the episode) discovering Ducky’s lifeless body in his home, served as a fitting tribute to McCallum’s iconic character. As the team at NCIS grappled with the loss of their mentor, viewers were taken on a journey through Ducky’s memorable moments and the impact he had on those around him.
Throughout the episode, snippets from past seasons were interspersed with present-day scenes, highlighting Ducky’s wisdom, compassion, and unique storytelling ability. From his interactions with Leroy Gibbs (Mark Harmon) to heartfelt moments with Abby Sciuto (Pauley Perrette), Ducky’s legacy was celebrated in a touching manner.
Amidst the emotional tribute, the team also tackled a case involving a former soldier named Danny, whose death was shrouded in mystery. As they unraveled the truth behind Danny’s demise, they honored Ducky’s commitment to seeking justice and uncovering the truth.
For Dietzen, who shared a close bond with McCallum both on and off-screen, the episode was a labor of love and a chance to pay tribute to a dear friend and colleague. Through his portrayal of Jimmy Palmer, Dietzen captured the essence of Ducky’s character and the profound impact he had on those around him.
Brian Dietzen and David McCallum. (Photo by Monty Brinton/CBS via Getty Images)
CBS via Getty Images
As the episode came to a close, a title card appeared on screen, dedicating the episode to the memory of David McCallum. It was a poignant reminder of the actor’s enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on NCIS and its devoted fanbase.
In the end, “The Stories We Leave Behind” served as a touching farewell to a beloved character and actor, offering viewers a chance to reflect on the impact of McCallum’s contributions to the show and the lasting impression he left on audiences worldwide.
