NCIS Fans Rejoice as Beloved Character Returns in Back-to-Back Episodes

Actor David McCallum's iconic Dr. Donald 'Ducky' Mallard character makes a surprise appearance in the NCIS universe.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:52am

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An abstract, high-contrast close-up photograph of a shattered glass surface reflecting a soft blue light, evoking a sense of fragility and the passage of time.The surprise return of the iconic Dr. Donald 'Ducky' Mallard character evokes a sense of nostalgia and celebration among NCIS fans.New Orleans Today

NCIS fans were thrilled to see the return of the beloved character Dr. Donald 'Ducky' Mallard, played by actor David McCallum, in back-to-back episodes of NCIS and its prequel series NCIS: Origins. McCallum, who portrayed the medical examiner for two decades on the original NCIS series, passed away in 2023, but the show found a creative way to bring the character back by incorporating a younger version played by actor Adam Campbell.

Why it matters

The return of Ducky, a fan-favorite character, is a significant moment for the NCIS franchise, which has been exploring the origins of its iconic characters. The appearance of a younger Ducky in NCIS: Origins provides deeper insight into the character's backstory and his relationship with Leroy Jethro Gibbs, the show's lead character.

The details

In the episode, Ducky explains to NCIS Director Leon Vance that he can now 'manifest' as his younger self, implying that he can appear at any age now that he's deceased. This creative approach allowed the show to incorporate the character without relying on flashbacks. Meanwhile, actor Adam Campbell, who has previously appeared in NCIS, now plays the younger version of Ducky in the prequel series, providing more details about the character's history and his connection to Gibbs.

  • David McCallum, the original actor who played Ducky, passed away in 2023.
  • The NCIS prequel series, NCIS: Origins, premiered in 2024.
  • Adam Campbell first appeared as a younger version of Ducky in a 2014 episode of NCIS, and later returned in seasons 13, 14, and 18.
  • The episode featuring the return of Ducky aired on October 28, 2025.

The players

David McCallum

The actor who played the iconic character of Dr. Donald 'Ducky' Mallard on the original NCIS series for two decades.

Adam Campbell

The actor who has been playing a younger version of Ducky in the NCIS universe, including appearances in the flagship NCIS series and the prequel NCIS: Origins.

Leroy Jethro Gibbs

The lead character of the NCIS series, who has a close relationship with Ducky.

Leon Vance

The Director of NCIS, who interacts with the returning Ducky character.

Dwayne Cassius Pride

A character from the NCIS: New Orleans spin-off series, who appears in a younger version in the NCIS: Origins prequel.

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What they’re saying

“Jethro is the reason I came to work for NIS. He once told me I'd make a good medical examiner. Do you remember?”

— Ducky, Medical Examiner

“Our time together was undeniably cut short, but you must remember that.”

— Ducky, Medical Examiner

“I've been really welcomed. I think the reality is I can't take any of the credit for that, though. That's all because of what David did with the character. It's a treat for the fans to learn a bit more about these characters.”

— Adam Campbell, Actor

What’s next

Viewers can expect to see more of Ducky's backstory and emotional state, as well as additional details about the family backgrounds of other NCIS characters, in upcoming episodes of NCIS: Origins.

The takeaway

The return of the beloved Ducky character, even in a younger version, is a testament to the enduring popularity of the NCIS franchise and its ability to creatively engage with its rich history and beloved characters. This move not only honors the legacy of the original series but also promises to deepen the audience's understanding of the NCIS universe.