‘NCIS’ Actor David McCallum, Who Played ‘Ducky,’ Dead At 90

Actor David McCallum, best known to modern audiences for his role as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on the CBS series “NCIS,” has died at the age of 90.

A statement from the network said McCallum died of natural causes on Monday while surrounded by family at New York Presbyterian Hospital. 

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of David McCallum and privileged that CBS was his home for so many years. David was a gifted actor and author, and beloved by many around the world,” the network’s statement said. 

Decades before NCIS, McCallum rose to fame in the hit series “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” in the 1960s.

“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. We will miss his warmth and endearing sense of humor that lit up any room or soundstage he stepped onto, as well as the brilliant stories he often shared from a life well-lived. Our hearts go out to his wife Katherine and his entire family, and all those who knew and loved David.”

David’s son, Peter McCallum, also shared a statement on behalf of the family. 

“He was the kindest, coolest, most patient and loving father. He always put family before self. He looked forward to any chance to connect with his grandchildren, and had a unique bond with each of them,” his son said. “He and his youngest grandson, Whit, 9, could often be found in the corner of a room at family parties having deep philosophical conversations.”

The statement continued, “He was a true Renaissance man — he was fascinated by science and culture and would turn those passions into knowledge. For example, he was capable of conducting a symphony orchestra and (if needed) could actually perform an autopsy, based on his decades-long studies for his role on NCIS.”

CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILY WIRE APP

NCIS executive producers Steven D. Binder and David North shared their own public comments about David’s passing. 

“For over twenty years, David McCallum endeared himself to audiences around the world playing the wise, quirky, and sometimes enigmatic, Dr. Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard,” the producers wrote. “But as much as his fans may have loved him, those who worked side by side with David loved him that much more. He was a scholar and a gentleman, always gracious, a consummate professional, and never one to pass up a joke.” 

“From day one, it was an honor to work with him and he never let us down. He was, quite simply, a legend. He was also family and will be deeply missed,” they continued.

The Scottish-born McCallum is survived by his wife of 56 years, Katherine McCallum, and sons Paul, Valentine, and Peter, daughter Sophie McCallum, and eight grandchildren.