Beloved NCIS star David McCallum dies, age 90

The entertainment world finds itself in a state of mourning following the loss of beloved actor David McCallum, who passed away at the age of 90 on Monday, September 25.

The Scottish-born actor, who became a household name through his role as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on the hit TV series NCIS, left a profound mark on both the industry and the hearts of fans worldwide.

McCallum’s passing was confirmed by television network CBS who revealed that he died surrounded by family at New York Presbyterian Hospital

“David was a gifted actor and author, and 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 on film and television that will never go away,” the network said.

“We will miss his warmth and endearing sense of humour that lit up any room or sound stage he stepped onto, as well as the brilliant stories he often shared from a life well-lived.”

Born on September 19, 1933, McCallum’s career spanned several decades after he gained fame in the 1960s as the suave secret agent Illya Kuryakin in the TV series The Man from U.N.C.L.E. McCallum’s acting prowess also graced television in other notable roles such as Carter in Colditz (1972–1974) and Steel in Sapphire & Steel (1979–1982).

However, his career reached new heights in 2003 when he took on the role of Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard in the popular American television series NCIS. This role endeared him to audiences worldwide, making him an international sensation.

Beyond the small screen, McCallum made a mark in cinema with a memorable appearance in the classic film The Great Escape (1963).

In addition to his acting prowess, McCallum also ventured into music during the 1960s in collaboration with renowned producer David Axelrod for Capitol Records.

Together, they created four distinctive albums that still remain popular today: Music…A Part of Me, Music…A Bit More of Me, Music…It’s Happening Now!, and McCallum.

In 2016, McCallum turned his hand to book publishing and released a crime novel entitled Once a Crooked Man.

As the news of his passing broke, fans from all corners of the globe came together to share their condolences, memories, and appreciation for the actor’s contributions to the world of entertainment.

Condolences to the family of David McCallum. 😞

— William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) September 26, 2023

David McCallum, Ducky, was the glue of NCIS. Period. You knew you were in good hands when he was on screen and it was almost comforting seeing him.

You knew he cared about the audience and we felt every bit of it for all those years❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/OJ6cKbXalv

— Brianna (@BriL_1995) September 25, 2023

“Change is inevitable like the seasons … I suggest you embrace it.”

Donald “Ducky” Mallard
David McCallum
RIP #NCIS pic.twitter.com/ptpHVhkHpj

— Rebecca (@myfabulousfind1) September 25, 2023

David McCallum, the actor played Dr. Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard on ‘NCIS,’ died at age 90 in New York on Monday. pic.twitter.com/8nscbQUlMz

— BOSTON ARMY 😈💨 (@Hooligan50h8) September 26, 2023

David McCallum (1933-2023) — Emmy-nominated star of THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E. and NCIS.

He also appeared in movies like THE GREAT ESCAPE and THE GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD in a 70-year career.https://t.co/bao3Xr5QaV #RIPDavidMcCallum pic.twitter.com/w0Uc94kb7l

— Will McKinley (@willmckinley) September 25, 2023

RIP DAVID MCCALLUM

THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E (1964-68)

pic.twitter.com/EBVlaZIhe4

— Michael Warburton (@MichaelWarbur17) September 25, 2023

I’ll never forget the first time I saw Mark Harmon and David McCallum together on Jag where #NCIS got its start. They were an incredible duo to watch. It will definitely be weird not seeing Ducky when Season 21 comes. #RIPDavidMcCallum @ncisverse pic.twitter.com/3bWOrhAZGB

— Laura Navins (@laura_navins) September 25, 2023

McCallum is survived by his wife Katherine McCallum, his sons Paul McCallum, Valentine McCallum and Peter McCallum, his daughter Sophie McCallum, and his eight grandchildren.