What's Happening?
CBS's 'NCIS: Origins' is set to feature Adam Campbell reprising his role as the younger version of Dr. Donald 'Ducky' Mallard in its upcoming second season. This episode will pay tribute to the late David McCallum, who portrayed Ducky for 20 seasons on the original 'NCIS' series. The showrunners, Gina Lucita Monreal and David J. North, expressed their desire to honor McCallum's memory through this special episode, which will also include his music. Campbell has previously appeared in four episodes of 'NCIS' as young Ducky, with his last appearance in 2020. In the new episode titled 'The Edge,' Ducky visits Camp Pendleton to shadow the team on a case, reconnecting with Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by Austin Stowell. The episode is set to air in the fall, although the exact date has not been announced.
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Why It's Important?
The return of Adam Campbell as young Ducky in 'NCIS: Origins' serves as a significant tribute to David McCallum, a beloved figure in the 'NCIS' franchise. McCallum's portrayal of Ducky was integral to the series, and honoring his legacy through this episode highlights the impact he had on the show's community and its fans. This move not only celebrates McCallum's contributions but also strengthens the connection between 'NCIS' and its spin-off, 'Origins,' by bringing back familiar characters. The inclusion of McCallum's music further enriches the tribute, offering fans a nostalgic experience. This episode is likely to attract viewers who have followed the series for years, reinforcing the show's enduring popularity and emotional resonance.
What's Next?
The second season of 'NCIS: Origins' is scheduled to premiere on October 14 on CBS, with Monreal and North as executive producers alongside Mark Harmon and Sean Harmon. As the series continues to develop, it may explore more connections to the original 'NCIS' series, potentially bringing back other characters or storylines that resonate with long-time fans. The tribute episode could also spark discussions among viewers and critics about the legacy of David McCallum and the evolution of the 'NCIS' franchise. Fans can anticipate further announcements regarding the exact air date of the tribute episode and additional details about the upcoming season.
