One of the most beloved characters in the NCIS universe is getting the tribute he deserves.
This fall, NCIS: Origins will celebrate the late David McCallum with a special episode featuring the return of Adam Campbell as Young Ducky.
Here’s what we know.
McCallum, who passed away in 2023, played Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard for 20 seasons on the flagship series, becoming a cornerstone of the NCIS family.
His dry wit, warmth, and quirky brilliance left a mark not just on Gibbs’ team but also on millions of viewers around the world.
McCallum’s performance paved the way for a show like Origins, as learning about Young Ducky only added to the character’s charm and the show’s lore.
Now, fans will get to revisit Ducky’s early days, this time in the upcoming Origins episode, titled “The Edge,” where the young medical examiner-in-training is sent to Camp Pendleton to shadow the NCIS team.
While there, he crosses paths with Leroy Jethro Gibbs once again, bringing their long history full circle.
As an especially touching nod, the episode will also feature McCallum’s own music — his iconic track “The Edge.”
“We wanted to do this episode to honor the memory of our dear friend David McCallum,” said co-showrunners and executive producers Gina Lucita Monreal and David J. North.
“He was a beloved member of the NCIS family for so many years, and we’re incredibly lucky to have the talented Adam Campbell back to bring the younger version of this iconic character to life once again.”
Campbell is no stranger to fans — he previously portrayed a younger Ducky in flashback episodes of NCIS, capturing the sharp intelligence and humor McCallum brought to the role.
But this marks his first appearance on NCIS: Origins, making the tribute even more meaningful.
Season two of NCIS: Origins premieres Tuesday, October 14, at 9/8c on CBS, as part of the franchise’s first-ever all-NCIS night.
Narrated by Mark Harmon, the series follows Austin Stowell as a young Gibbs in the early 1990s under the mentorship of Mike Franks (Kyle Schmid).
This season promises higher stakes, emotional fallout from last season’s shocking crash, and defining moments that will shape Gibbs’ future.
But for longtime fans, the Ducky tribute episode may be the emotional highlight of the season.
It’s more than just another case for the Camp Pendleton team — it’s a celebration of one of television’s most enduring characters and the actor who made him unforgettable.
So mark your calendars.
This fall, NCIS: Origins isn’t just going back in time — it’s bringing Ducky home.
Maybe, finally, this will be the episode that brings hesitant NCIS fans into the fold.
Is this a good move, or would you rather Ducky be left to the show that started it all?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Watch NCIS: Origins Online
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NCIS: Origins to Honor David McCallum With Special ‘Young Ducky’ Episode Guest-Starring Adam Campbell
NCIS: Origins will pay tribute to the late David McCallum this fall with a moving Young Ducky episode featuring Adam Campbell and David’s own music.
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