From episode 1, David McCallum played forensic pathologist (and later NCIS historian) Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard became the regular cast member of the crime hit “NCIS” – until its 20th season, which ended this year. The loss for the series is correspondingly great after the death of the Hollywood veteran, known for cinema masterpieces such as ‘Breaking Chains’ and the cult series ‘Solo for UNCLE’.
And because Ducky was such an integral part of ‘NCIS,’ McCallum and his role will now be recognized in the series in a special way (rather than just an end-of-episode dedication). Like the website has experienced, gets Ducky in the next one 21st “NCIS” season a farewell episode specially tailored to him.
This Is What Happens in the Ducky Farewell Episode of ‘NCIS’
After McCallum’s death, Ducky will also die in the series. His (ex-)colleagues discover this in the second episode of the new season ‘NCIS’ and, amid their grief, reminisce about their faithful companion. And even after his death, Ducky helps them solve one last case.
The NCIS showrunners have already promised that there will be plenty of tears, but also some laughs, as the series says goodbye to one of its most iconic characters. It’s fitting that actor Brian Dietzen, who plays Ducky’s protégé Dr. Jimmy Palmer probably had the most scenes with McCallum over the years.
Return of Mark Harmon or Pauley Perrette?
In addition, according to the makers, a very moving and special moment will take place that fans should absolutely not miss. So you can certainly speculate that one or two “NCIS” dropouts will stop by for a cameo to pay their last respects to a close friend.
Will former ‘NCIS’ figurehead Mark Harmon return as Gibbs, after all, after his departure in season 19, the back door for guest appearances was wide open. Many fans have long hoped for a return of fan favorite Michael Weatherly as Tony DiNozzo.
But the biggest thrill would probably be if Ducky’s closest ex-colleague Abby paid her old team a visit. Her actress Pauley Perrette left the series because, according to her own statement, violent incidents took place on the set. But since she was apparently at odds with Mark Harmon in particular, the time for an Abby comeback may have finally arrived following his departure from the series.
We’ll know more when the Ducky farewell episode of ‘NCIS’ hits US screens on February 19, 2024. In Germany it will happen again a few months later with Joyn and Sat.1. The twentieth season ended this month in this country.