David McCallum (1933 - 2023) - Sitcoms Online Message Boards

Zoneboy · 09-25-2023, 05:45 PM

https://deadline.com/2023/09/david-m...or-1235555770/

NCIS veteran David McCallum passed away peacefully this morning, Sept. 25, of natural causes at New York Presbyterian Hospital, surrounded by family. He was 90, having celebrated his birthday less than a week ago.

A fan favorite, McCallum was the last remaining original cast members on CBS’ NCIS, in which he played Chief Medical Examiner Donald “Ducky” Mallard, an eccentric but highly efficient investigator with a knack for psychological profiling, for two decades.

“For over twenty years, David McCallum endeared himself to audiences around the world playing the wise, quirky, and sometimes enigmatic, Dr. Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard,” said NCIS executive producers Steven D. Binder and David North. “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.”

The previously announced 20th anniversary NCIS marathon will now include an “In memoriam” card in remembrance of McCallum.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of David McCallum and privileged that CBS was his home for so many years,” the network and NCIS studio CBS Studios said in a joint statement. “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. 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.”

Born in Glasgow, Scotland on Sept. 19, 1933 in a prominent musical family, McCallum studied at the Royal Academy of Music. Following a well received performance from Shakespeare’s King John at a local theater group, he switched his focus to acting while keeping music as a secondary interest. After studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, he joined Actors’ Equity in 1946 where he began working on BBC Radio and made his debut in a 1946 production of Whom the Gods Love, Die Young. That was followed by several years in repertory theater. His many theater productions include Amadeus, Communicating Doors, The Hunting of the Snark, Comedians, The Lion in Winter and Julius Caesar.

After moving to America in 1961, McCallum was cast in the role of Illya Kuryakin in the TV series The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Initially a minor character with two lines. But that was enough for producers to see that McCallum and star Robert Vaughn had considerable chemistry together, and McCallum was boosted to co-star status, with the role earning him two Emmy Award nominations and a Golden Globe nod. He went on to appear in the movies The Greatest Story Ever Told, The Great Escape, Mosquito Squadron, Billy Budd, Freud and A Night to Remember.

McCallum found his next hit with NCIS. A close confidante to Mark Harmon’s Jethro Gibbs, his “Ducky” Mallard served as father confessor and paternal figure for the show’s offbeat cast of characters. He remained on the show til the end, working a lighter schedule over the last several years. He showcased his signature sense humor in announcing his return in 2018.

McCallum’s extensive TV series credits also include The Invisible Man, The Education of Max Bickford, Sapphire and Steel, Colditz, Motherlove, Kidnapped, and episodes of The Outer Limits, Law & Order and Sex and the City. He also voiced characters in the animated series The Replacements and Ben 10 and narrated more than 30 books on tape and CD.

In addition to acting, McCallum also orchestrated and conducted a trio of records that put unique spins on some of the period’s more popular songs. In 2016 McCallum published his first novel, Once a Crooked Man.

Callum is survived by his wife of 56 years, Katherine McCallum, his sons Paul McCallum, Valentine McCallum and Peter McCallum, his daughter Sophie McCallum and his eight grandchildren: Julia McCallum, Luca de Sanctis, Iain de Sanctis, Stella McCallum, Gavin McCallum, George McCallum, Alessandro de Sanctis and Whit McCallum.

“He was the kindest, coolest, most patient and loving father,” Peter McCallum said in a statement on behalf of the family. “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. He and his youngest grandson, Whit, 9, could often be found in the corner of a room at family parties having deep philosophical conversations.

“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.

“After returning from the hospital to their apartment, I asked my mother if she was OK before she went to sleep. Her answer was simply, ‘Yes. But I do wish we had had a chance to grow old together.’ She is 79, and dad just turned 90. The honesty in that emotion shows how vibrant their beautiful relationship and daily lives were, and that somehow, even at 90, Daddy never grew old.”

In lieu of flowers, McCallum’s family asks that donations be made to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation at http://www.mcsf.org.

No immediate memorial service will take place, instead a celebration of life service will be held in the future.

Mr. Television · 09-25-2023, 06:07 PM

This one hurts. R.I.P. David.

80sTrivia · 09-25-2023, 07:30 PM

So sad to hear the news of his passing, so soon after his 90th birthday...

TMC · 10-21-2023, 05:49 AM

Top TV Moments: David McCallum

Quote:

We’ve all seen the social media posts mourning the passing of actor David McCallum, and it was easy to surmise the age of the poster by whether McCallum was associated with The Man From U.N.C.L.E. or NCIS. Not many stars from the classic TV era were still turning up on a weekly network series 40 years after a breakthrough role, so that alone is an impressive achievement.

Let’s honor a fine actor with a closer look at more of his memorable TV moments.

Dude111 · 10-21-2023, 06:10 PM

Very sad.......

TMC · 11-20-2023, 08:48 PM

NCIS Season 21: Brian Dietzen Teases Ducky Tribute After David McCallum's Death

According to "NCIS" star Brian Dietzen, the show's 21st season will have some sort of tribute to Ducky, whose actor, David McCallum, died in September.

TMC · 12-19-2023, 09:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TMC

NCIS Season 21: Brian Dietzen Teases Ducky Tribute After David McCallum's Death

According to "NCIS" star Brian Dietzen, the show's 21st season will have some sort of tribute to Ducky, whose actor, David McCallum, died in September.

NCIS sets David McCallum tribute episode

The second episode of the upcoming NCIS season will pay homage to McCallum's legacy and celebrate his cherished character, who began as the chief medical examiner and later became NCIS' Historian, Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, according to TVLine.

TMC · 02-13-2024, 09:24 PM

NCIS Season 21: Wilmer Valderrama Pays Tribute To David McCallum Ahead Of Ducky Episode

"The Stories We Leave Behind" will see the "NCIS" team pay tribute to Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard, and Wilmer Valderrama has spoken about David McCallum.

TMC · 02-15-2024, 10:28 PM

How NCIS Season 21's Ducky Tribute Episode Honors His Relationship With Past Characters

NCIS co-star reveals how the upcoming tribute episode in season 21 will honor the relationships Ducky had with past characters, such as Abby and Gibbs

TMC · 02-16-2024, 09:48 PM

How Gibbs Will Respond To Ducky's Death In NCIS Season 21 Teased By Jimmy Star

Cast member Brian Dietzen talks about how Leroy Jethro Gibbs may react to the news that Ducky Mallard has already passed away in NCIS season 21.

TMC · 02-20-2024, 03:25 AM

Gibbs’ Role In Ducky’s Tribute Episode Teased Out By New NCIS Season 21 Clip

A brand new NCIS season 21 sneak peek teases the role that Mark Harmon's Leroy Jethro Gibbs will play in the emotional Ducky tribute episode.

TMC · 02-20-2024, 08:48 PM

How NCIS paid tribute to David McCallum

Monday's episode sent off McCallum, who died last September at age 90, and his original character Donald “Ducky” Mallard. “I’ve lost a few people in my life, but never have I sat down and written a script or a story about them in the weeks following their departure. It was very odd… but helpful in a way,” NCIS star Brian Dietzen, who co-wrote the emotional episode with Scott Williams, told The Wrap. “A lot of the grief of losing a friend is softened by the fact that he’s a 90-year-old man who lived so much life.”

The Real Reason Mark Harmon's Gibbs Didn't Return On NCIS Season 21's Ducky Episode

Fans were disappointed that Mark Harmon didn't appear as Gibbs in the "NCIS" Ducky tribute episode. But there was a simple explanation for his absence.

What Happened To David McCallum's Ducky On NCIS Season 21?

NCIS Season 21, Episode 2 is called "The Stories We Leave Behind," and it finally confirms what happened to David McCallum's Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard.

NCIS Season 21 Announces A Big Change To The Opening Credits After David McCallum's Death

"NCIS" star Brian Dietzen spoke about the changes to the show's opening credits at the beginning of Season 21 to pay respect to David McCallum.

NCIS Fans Aren't Holding Back On Mark Harmon's Gibbs Missing The Ducky Tribute Episode

After Gibbs did not return for the "NCIS" Ducky tribute episode, fans of the long-running TV drama took to social media to express their disappointment.

TMC · 02-20-2024, 10:18 PM

DiNozzo’s NCIS Surprise Return Is Bigger Than Gibbs (& Better For The Future)

Michael Weatherly unexpectedly returns as Tony DiNozzo in NCIS season 21 and his comeback means bigger and better things than a Gibbs cameo.

NCIS Season 21 Returning Original Character Future Fate Gets A Disappointing Update

NCIS season 21's Ducky tribute episode features the return of an original cast member, but their future in the show gets a disappointing update.

“Help The Person Who’s Left Behind”: NCIS Star Explains Ducky Tribute’s Solo Cameo Decision

NCIS season 21 features an emotional send-off to Ducky Mallard, which also serves as the perfect return opportunity for an original character return.

Did Gibbs Return For Ducky's Funeral In NCIS Season 21? Mark Harmon's Involvement Explained

There were theories that Mark Harmon would return for Ducky's funeral in NCIS season 21, episode 2, but his involvement is much deeper than a cameo.

TMC · 02-21-2024, 08:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TMC

DiNozzo’s NCIS Surprise Return Is Bigger Than Gibbs (& Better For The Future)

Michael Weatherly unexpectedly returns as Tony DiNozzo in NCIS season 21 and his comeback means bigger and better things than a Gibbs cameo.

NCIS Season 21 Returning Original Character Future Fate Gets A Disappointing Update

NCIS season 21's Ducky tribute episode features the return of an original cast member, but their future in the show gets a disappointing update.

“Help The Person Who’s Left Behind”: NCIS Star Explains Ducky Tribute’s Solo Cameo Decision

NCIS season 21 features an emotional send-off to Ducky Mallard, which also serves as the perfect return opportunity for an original character return.

Did Gibbs Return For Ducky's Funeral In NCIS Season 21? Mark Harmon's Involvement Explained

There were theories that Mark Harmon would return for Ducky's funeral in NCIS season 21, episode 2, but his involvement is much deeper than a cameo.

NCIS Season 21 BTS Images Reveal Closer Look At DiNozzo's Surprise Cameo

Michael Weatherly's return as Tony DiNozzo may be brief, but new set images for NCIS season 21, episode 2 reveal him and the cast having so much fun.

TMC · 02-22-2024, 09:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TMC

DiNozzo’s NCIS Surprise Return Is Bigger Than Gibbs (& Better For The Future)

Michael Weatherly unexpectedly returns as Tony DiNozzo in NCIS season 21 and his comeback means bigger and better things than a Gibbs cameo.

NCIS Season 21 Returning Original Character Future Fate Gets A Disappointing Update

NCIS season 21's Ducky tribute episode features the return of an original cast member, but their future in the show gets a disappointing update.

“Help The Person Who’s Left Behind”: NCIS Star Explains Ducky Tribute’s Solo Cameo Decision

NCIS season 21 features an emotional send-off to Ducky Mallard, which also serves as the perfect return opportunity for an original character return.

Did Gibbs Return For Ducky's Funeral In NCIS Season 21? Mark Harmon's Involvement Explained

There were theories that Mark Harmon would return for Ducky's funeral in NCIS season 21, episode 2, but his involvement is much deeper than a cameo.

What Gibbs Is Doing Now In NCIS Secretly Revealed By Ducky Tribute Episode

Despite Mark Harmon's absence in NCIS season 21, episode 2, the episode secretly offers an update about what Leroy Jethro Gibbs is up to these days.

09-25-2023, 05:45 PM	#1
Zoneboy RIP, I'LL NEVER FORGET YOU :( Moderator Forum Superstar Join Date: Jul 13, 2003 Location: AT HOME WISHING ALL THIS WAS JUST A DREAM AND THAT I'LL WAKE UP FROM THIS NIGHTMARE. Posts: 34,408	David McCallum (1933 - 2023) https://deadline.com/2023/09/david-m...or-1235555770/ NCIS veteran David McCallum passed away peacefully this morning, Sept. 25, of natural causes at New York Presbyterian Hospital, surrounded by family. He was 90, having celebrated his birthday less than a week ago. A fan favorite, McCallum was the last remaining original cast members on CBS’ NCIS, in which he played Chief Medical Examiner Donald “Ducky” Mallard, an eccentric but highly efficient investigator with a knack for psychological profiling, for two decades. “For over twenty years, David McCallum endeared himself to audiences around the world playing the wise, quirky, and sometimes enigmatic, Dr. Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard,” said NCIS executive producers Steven D. Binder and David North. “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.” The previously announced 20th anniversary NCIS marathon will now include an “In memoriam” card in remembrance of McCallum. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of David McCallum and privileged that CBS was his home for so many years,” the network and NCIS studio CBS Studios said in a joint statement. “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. 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.” Born in Glasgow, Scotland on Sept. 19, 1933 in a prominent musical family, McCallum studied at the Royal Academy of Music. Following a well received performance from Shakespeare’s King John at a local theater group, he switched his focus to acting while keeping music as a secondary interest. After studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, he joined Actors’ Equity in 1946 where he began working on BBC Radio and made his debut in a 1946 production of Whom the Gods Love, Die Young. That was followed by several years in repertory theater. His many theater productions include Amadeus, Communicating Doors, The Hunting of the Snark, Comedians, The Lion in Winter and Julius Caesar. After moving to America in 1961, McCallum was cast in the role of Illya Kuryakin in the TV series The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Initially a minor character with two lines. But that was enough for producers to see that McCallum and star Robert Vaughn had considerable chemistry together, and McCallum was boosted to co-star status, with the role earning him two Emmy Award nominations and a Golden Globe nod. He went on to appear in the movies The Greatest Story Ever Told, The Great Escape, Mosquito Squadron, Billy Budd, Freud and A Night to Remember. McCallum found his next hit with NCIS. A close confidante to Mark Harmon’s Jethro Gibbs, his “Ducky” Mallard served as father confessor and paternal figure for the show’s offbeat cast of characters. He remained on the show til the end, working a lighter schedule over the last several years. He showcased his signature sense humor in announcing his return in 2018. McCallum’s extensive TV series credits also include The Invisible Man, The Education of Max Bickford, Sapphire and Steel, Colditz, Motherlove, Kidnapped, and episodes of The Outer Limits, Law & Order and Sex and the City. He also voiced characters in the animated series The Replacements and Ben 10 and narrated more than 30 books on tape and CD. In addition to acting, McCallum also orchestrated and conducted a trio of records that put unique spins on some of the period’s more popular songs. In 2016 McCallum published his first novel, Once a Crooked Man. Callum is survived by his wife of 56 years, Katherine McCallum, his sons Paul McCallum, Valentine McCallum and Peter McCallum, his daughter Sophie McCallum and his eight grandchildren: Julia McCallum, Luca de Sanctis, Iain de Sanctis, Stella McCallum, Gavin McCallum, George McCallum, Alessandro de Sanctis and Whit McCallum. “He was the kindest, coolest, most patient and loving father,” Peter McCallum said in a statement on behalf of the family. “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. He and his youngest grandson, Whit, 9, could often be found in the corner of a room at family parties having deep philosophical conversations. “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. “After returning from the hospital to their apartment, I asked my mother if she was OK before she went to sleep. Her answer was simply, ‘Yes. But I do wish we had had a chance to grow old together.’ She is 79, and dad just turned 90. The honesty in that emotion shows how vibrant their beautiful relationship and daily lives were, and that somehow, even at 90, Daddy never grew old.” In lieu of flowers, McCallum’s family asks that donations be made to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation at http://www.mcsf.org. No immediate memorial service will take place, instead a celebration of life service will be held in the future.

09-25-2023, 06:07 PM	#2
Mr. Television 23 Years at Sitcoms Online Forum Icon Join Date: Jun 06, 2003 Location: Somewhere you're Not Posts: 62,132	This one hurts. R.I.P. David.
	__________________ Sonny

09-25-2023, 07:30 PM	#3
80sTrivia Member Forum Celebrity Join Date: May 23, 2002 Posts: 21,714	So sad to hear the news of his passing, so soon after his 90th birthday...
	__________________ Perfect Gift Books for Pop Culture Fanatics: Thank You for Being a Friend: A Golden Girls Trivia Book The Bouquet Residence: A Keeping Up Appearances Trivia Book Cooking With the Golden Girls: Fun & Delicious Recipes from a Hilarious Miami Kitchen Love in the Afternoon: The Ultimate Soap Opera Trivia Book The Last Great Decade: The Ultimate 90s Trivia Book Betty White: A Celebration

10-21-2023, 06:10 PM	#5
Dude111 Forum Legend Join Date: Nov 05, 2013 Posts: 36,423	Very sad.......

11-20-2023, 08:48 PM	#6
TMC Member Forum Idol Join Date: Jan 09, 2001 Posts: 126,490	NCIS Season 21: Brian Dietzen Teases Ducky Tribute After David McCallum's Death According to "NCIS" star Brian Dietzen, the show's 21st season will have some sort of tribute to Ducky, whose actor, David McCallum, died in September.

02-13-2024, 09:24 PM	#8
TMC Member Forum Idol Join Date: Jan 09, 2001 Posts: 126,490	NCIS Season 21: Wilmer Valderrama Pays Tribute To David McCallum Ahead Of Ducky Episode "The Stories We Leave Behind" will see the "NCIS" team pay tribute to Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard, and Wilmer Valderrama has spoken about David McCallum.

02-15-2024, 10:28 PM	#9
TMC Member Forum Idol Join Date: Jan 09, 2001 Posts: 126,490	How NCIS Season 21's Ducky Tribute Episode Honors His Relationship With Past Characters NCIS co-star reveals how the upcoming tribute episode in season 21 will honor the relationships Ducky had with past characters, such as Abby and Gibbs

02-16-2024, 09:48 PM	#10
TMC Member Forum Idol Join Date: Jan 09, 2001 Posts: 126,490	How Gibbs Will Respond To Ducky's Death In NCIS Season 21 Teased By Jimmy Star Cast member Brian Dietzen talks about how Leroy Jethro Gibbs may react to the news that Ducky Mallard has already passed away in NCIS season 21.

02-20-2024, 03:25 AM	#11
TMC Member Forum Idol Join Date: Jan 09, 2001 Posts: 126,490	Gibbs’ Role In Ducky’s Tribute Episode Teased Out By New NCIS Season 21 Clip A brand new NCIS season 21 sneak peek teases the role that Mark Harmon's Leroy Jethro Gibbs will play in the emotional Ducky tribute episode.

02-20-2024, 08:48 PM	#12
TMC Member Forum Idol Join Date: Jan 09, 2001 Posts: 126,490	How NCIS paid tribute to David McCallum Monday's episode sent off McCallum, who died last September at age 90, and his original character Donald “Ducky” Mallard. “I’ve lost a few people in my life, but never have I sat down and written a script or a story about them in the weeks following their departure. It was very odd… but helpful in a way,” NCIS star Brian Dietzen, who co-wrote the emotional episode with Scott Williams, told The Wrap. “A lot of the grief of losing a friend is softened by the fact that he’s a 90-year-old man who lived so much life.” The Real Reason Mark Harmon's Gibbs Didn't Return On NCIS Season 21's Ducky Episode Fans were disappointed that Mark Harmon didn't appear as Gibbs in the "NCIS" Ducky tribute episode. But there was a simple explanation for his absence. What Happened To David McCallum's Ducky On NCIS Season 21? NCIS Season 21, Episode 2 is called "The Stories We Leave Behind," and it finally confirms what happened to David McCallum's Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard. NCIS Season 21 Announces A Big Change To The Opening Credits After David McCallum's Death "NCIS" star Brian Dietzen spoke about the changes to the show's opening credits at the beginning of Season 21 to pay respect to David McCallum. NCIS Fans Aren't Holding Back On Mark Harmon's Gibbs Missing The Ducky Tribute Episode After Gibbs did not return for the "NCIS" Ducky tribute episode, fans of the long-running TV drama took to social media to express their disappointment.

02-20-2024, 10:18 PM	#13
TMC Member Forum Idol Join Date: Jan 09, 2001 Posts: 126,490	DiNozzo’s NCIS Surprise Return Is Bigger Than Gibbs (& Better For The Future) Michael Weatherly unexpectedly returns as Tony DiNozzo in NCIS season 21 and his comeback means bigger and better things than a Gibbs cameo. NCIS Season 21 Returning Original Character Future Fate Gets A Disappointing Update NCIS season 21's Ducky tribute episode features the return of an original cast member, but their future in the show gets a disappointing update. “Help The Person Who’s Left Behind”: NCIS Star Explains Ducky Tribute’s Solo Cameo Decision NCIS season 21 features an emotional send-off to Ducky Mallard, which also serves as the perfect return opportunity for an original character return. Did Gibbs Return For Ducky's Funeral In NCIS Season 21? Mark Harmon's Involvement Explained There were theories that Mark Harmon would return for Ducky's funeral in NCIS season 21, episode 2, but his involvement is much deeper than a cameo.