British actor David McCallum, who played the role of forensic pathologist “Ducky” for 20 seasons in the series NCISdied at the age of 90, several American media reported Monday.
The one who first became known to the general public in the 1960s by playing the charming Illya Kouriakine in the series Very special agentsdied Monday surrounded by his family in a New York hospital, CBS said.
“He was the kindest, coolest, most patient and loving father,” his son Peter said, according to the channel. “He was fascinated by science and culture and transformed those passions into knowledge,” he added, adding that his father would have even been able to perform an autopsy “based on his decades-long research for his role in NCIS.
A very special agent
A student at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, David McCallum made one of his first film appearances in 1963 in The great Escapealongside Steve McQueen in particular.
But it was when he was chosen the following year to play the enigmatic Soviet secret agent Illya Kouriakin in Very special agents that his career is experiencing real growth. With lush blonde hair and turtlenecks, David McCallum represented a certain icon of charm.
20 seasons of “NCIS”
Series Very special agents only lasted four years, but his character followed him for life. “It’s been more than 30 years but I can’t escape,” he declared to New York Times in 1998.
From 2003, he began his role as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, forensic pathologist for the US Navy’s criminal investigation service, NCIS, in the series of the same name. A real hit, it will be followed by millions of spectators in the United States and around the world, continuing through its 20 seasons to be broadcast on American television.
With his characteristic bow ties, he will appear in all episodes of the first 15 seasons, with the exception of one, before making more sporadic appearances from season 16 onwards.