Losing a colleague with whom you have worked for several years can be a particularly devastating and heartbreaking experience. This is the case with Mark Harmon, who spent many years working alongside David McCallum on the hit TV series NCIS. As the news of David McCallum’s death broke around the world, Mark Harmon, deeply affected by the loss, decided to break his silence and share his thoughts on his beloved former actor.
David McCallum, widely adored for his portrayal of Dr. Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard on NCIS, has firmly secured a place in the hearts of fans around the world. For years, he has graced television screens with his remarkable talent and unwavering dedication to his character. His performance resonated deeply with viewers, and his death, a statement to Fox News confirmed, was attributed to natural causes at New York Presbyterian Hospital.
“David was a talented playwright and performer who was adored by people around the world. He lived a remarkable life and his family, as well as the endless hours of cinema and television that will always exist, will carry his legacy.
McCallum is survived by his eight grandchildren and five children from his first marriage and his marriage to Katherine Carpenter, to whom he was married for nearly 60 years.
Tributes poured in as the public learned of his death. Seven D. Binder and David North, current executive producers of NCIS, released a statement expressing their deep sorrow at the loss.
“For more than 20 years, David McCallum has endeared himself to audiences around the world playing the wise, quirky, and occasionally enigmatic Dr. Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard,” the statement read. “But as much as his fans may have loved him, those who worked side by side with David loved him much more,” it continued. He was a scholar and a gentleman, always polite, a true professional, and never missed an opportunity to make a joke. It was a privilege to work with him right away and he never let us down. Simply put, he was a legend. He was also a member of my family and I will miss him.
Most recently, he made a remote appearance in the last two episodes of season 20 of NCIS. Everyone who enjoyed the show was incredibly grateful for his presence.
Additionally, a CBS spokesperson released a statement expressing their sadness at the passing of David McCallum and gratitude that CBS served as his home for so long. David was a talented playwright and performer who was popular around the world. He lived a remarkable life and his family, as well as the many hours of film and television that will never end, will ensure that his legacy lives on forever. We will miss his friendliness and delightful sense of humor that brightened any space or environment he entered, as well as the wonderful stories of a life well lived that he often shared.
Mark Harmon, McCallum’s colleague and friend, also took a moment to reflect on the life and passing of his esteemed colleague. Harmon’s words were moving and full of respect: “David lived a great, full, long life,” he said. Harmon went on to express his respect when he first met McCallum and emphasized the honor he felt working with him on the show. His condolences were extended to Katherine, McCallum’s family, and loved ones. The depth of grief felt by everyone who mourned McCallum’s loss was palpable.
The passing of David McCallum is a truly heartbreaking moment for all who knew him, either personally or through his work in the world of entertainment. As we mourn together the loss of this gifted actor, author, and beloved character, our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends as they navigate this challenging time of grief. The legacy he leaves behind will continue to touch the hearts of audiences for generations to come, a testament to the enduring power of his talent and the warmth of his spirit.