David McCallum, best known for his roles on The Man From U.N.C.L.E and NCIS has died, CBS confirmed on Monday, also disclosing his cause of death. The legend, who spent over forty years in the industry has assumed some of the most iconic characters on TV to date. Until his death, he played medical examiner Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard on the CBS drama NCIS, starring in 457 episodes.
David McCallum’s Death at Ninety
Per the statement confirming David McCallum’s death, the NCIS actor passed away on Monday, September 25. He died of natural causes at the New York Presbyterian Hospital, surrounded by family. He was ninety. The statement described David as a gifted actor and author, loved by many around the world. It continued,
“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.”
David McCallum’s son, Peter McCallum from his 1967 marriage to Katherine Carpenter, also confirmed his death in a press release. Peter described the actor as “a true renaissance man” who loved science and culture. He also reflected on his dad’s ability to turn his passions into knowledge. Peter continued,
“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.”
David’s son went on to commend his dad’s love for family, which he put above his decades-long career. According to him, the family remembered David McCallum in death as a kind, patient, and loving dad. Aside from being the coolest dad, the icon had a penchant for putting family before himself. He added,
“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.”
David’s Career and Legacy
Aside from NCIS and The Man From U.N.C.L.E, some of David’s most memorable works include A Night to Remember, The Great Escape, The Greatest Story Ever Told, To Trap a Spy, and Sapphire and Steel. Additionally, David McCallum tried his hands at music decades before his death, recording several albums and tracks. He also authored the crime novel, Once a Crooked Man.
Since his passing, several of his former co-stars and celebs have paid him tribute on social media. Stars like Michael Warburton, Michael Weatherly, and Mike Beauvais paid tribute to him on social media. The official account on NCIS also shared a heartfelt tribute to David McCallum on X, reminiscing on his contribution to the TV series before his death. The legend is survived by his wife of 56 years Katherine McCallum, his four children Paul, Valentine, Peter, and Sophie McCallum, and eight grandchildren.
