NCIS to honour late star and ‘dear friend’ David McCallum when show returns
Joan Collins Pays Tribute To David Mccallum On Good Morning Britain
NCIS showrunners Steven D Binder and David North have shared the CBS series’ plans to pay tribute to the late David McCallum upon its return.
McCallum, who passed away in September from natural causes, celebrated his 90th birthday just six days before his death, leading to an outpouring of grief.
The beloved actor portrayed Dr Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard in more than 450 episodes, spanning the entirety of the show’s 20 seasons.
In an interview with TV Line, showrunners Steven D Binder and David North disclosed that a special episode dedicated to remembering their “dear friend” is in the works for February.
“Everyone at NCIS felt it was important to do an episode that honours such a legendary actor, not to mention a dear friend,” Binder and North revealed.
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“In the episode, the team will learn of Ducky’s passing and reflect on their memories of him as they grieve,” the pair continued.
“And true to Ducky’s meticulous and compassionate nature, even after he’s gone, he still manages to solve one last crime with the team.”
The showrunners also confirmed that Brian Dietzen, the actor portraying Ducky’s protege Jimmy Palmer in the series, is collaborating with executive producer Scott Williams in co-writing the dedicated episode.
While the showrunners refrained from confirming any surprise cameos, they offered a hint, saying: “There will also be a very touching and special moment you won’t want to miss.”
Scheduled to air on CBS on February 19, the episode follows the season 21 premiere, set for February 12.
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The showrunnners also paid tribute to the late actor back in September, when news of his death emerged.
They said in a statement: “For over 20 years, David McCallum endeared himself to audiences around the world playing the wise, quirky, and sometimes enigmatic, Dr. Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard.
“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 honour 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.”
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