• 'NCIS' says goodbye to "Ducky"
  • David McCallum has passed away
  • Sad new episode

David McCallum, renowned for his portrayal of "Ducky" on 'NCIS,' passed away in 2023 at the age of 90. A beloved recurring character in the series, he was set to make an appearance in the upcoming 21st season.

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This is how 'NCIS' will say goodbye to "Ducky" 

As officially confirmed, the upcoming season will feature an episode where "Ducky" bids farewell. Producers Steven D. Binder and David North shared with 'TVLine' that the character will be written out of the series with a poignant, series-ending death.

"In the episode, the team will learn of Ducky’s passing and reflect on their memories of him as they grieve. 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 circumstances surrounding "Ducky's" passing remain undisclosed, leaving it unclear whether it was due to natural causes. A recently released trailer for Season 21 indicates that his colleague, "Palmer," is notably distressed by the loss.

"Palmer" is seen standing before a prone figure, presumably the lifeless body of "Ducky," tears streaming down his face. "Yesterday is over, sad as that may seem, but change is the essence of life" you can hear "Ducky" speaking in the voiceover. 

Many fans have poured out their heartfelt condolences for David McCallum in the comments section of the trailer on Instagram. Some are expressing a desire for stars like Mark Harmon to return for the memorial episode.

The new season of 'NCIS' is set to premiere on February 12 in the USA.

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