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Mark Harmon’s Emotional Tribute to David McCallum (Ducky)

The NCIS family faced a devastating loss with the passing of David McCallum, the beloved actor who portrayed Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, in September 2023. As tributes flooded in from fans and co-stars alike, one message stood out above the rest—Mark Harmon’s emotional farewell to his longtime friend and colleague.

A Bond Beyond the Screen

Mark Harmon and David McCallum spent nearly two decades together on-screen as the unforgettable duo of Gibbs and Ducky. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, with Ducky’s wisdom balancing Gibbs’ stoic leadership. Off-screen, however, their bond was even stronger, built on a foundation of mutual respect, admiration, and genuine friendship.

Harmon’s Touching Tribute

Following McCallum’s passing, Harmon shared a heartfelt tribute that captured the essence of their friendship:

“David was a scholar and a gentleman, always bringing humor, intelligence, and kindness to every moment. Working with him was an honor, but knowing him as a friend was a true gift. His legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of sharing time with him.”

This message resonated deeply with fans, many of whom had followed the emotional connection between Gibbs and Ducky over the years.

NCIS Honors a Legend

In early 2024, NCIS aired a special tribute episode to honor McCallum, offering Ducky a heartfelt sendoff. The episode featured flashbacks and poignant moments that celebrated Ducky’s lasting impact on the team, ensuring that his memory remains a permanent part of the show’s history.

A Friendship That Lives On

Though David McCallum may no longer be with us, his influence continues to be felt—both within the NCIS universe and in the friendships he forged throughout his career. Mark Harmon’s tribute is a powerful reminder of the deep bonds formed behind the scenes, proving that McCallum’s legacy is not just about the characters he portrayed, but the lives he touched.

What are some of your favorite Ducky moments? Share your thoughts below!

If you’ve been hoping for a reunion between NCIS exes Special Agent Jessica Knight (Katrina Law) and Dr. Jimmy Palmer (Brian Dietzen), you might have to wait a little longer. While it’s unclear if they’ll ever rekindle their romance, the show is shaking things up by introducing Erinn Hayes as Wendy Hill, a new character who may have a connection with Jimmy.

According to TV Insider, Wendy is one of Jimmy’s neighbors, and the two cross paths at a homeowners’ association cocktail hour. The outlet also shared a first-look image from the upcoming episode, Close to Home (airing March 3), where Wendy and Jimmy appear to be getting cozy over drinks. Whether this turns into something more remains to be seen, but fans will have to tune in to find out.

Meanwhile, Knight and Jimmy’s relationship remains in the past—for now. According to executive producer Steven D. Binder, the former couple parted ways because they wanted what was best for each other. However, he hinted that their story may not be over just yet:

“All the while, I think you’re going to get a sense that maybe they’re better off together. So we need to see how they’re not better off together first before we see that they’re better off together. And that’s the fun—seeing how they’re not better off.”

What’s Next for Jimmy in NCIS Season 22?

Binder also teased more exciting developments for Jimmy in Close to Home. Not only will his ex play a role in the episode, but his daughter, Victoria, will team up with him to help track down a notorious bank robber—described as a “D.B. Cooper type.”

Additionally, Jimmy will have to go undercover, putting him in close proximity to other women. This could put Knight in an awkward position, as she watches from afar while Jimmy takes center stage in the operation. “We’ll see how mature she is when Jimmy’s undercover, the belle of the ball, and Knight has to watch through a camera,” Binder teased.

With NCIS Season 22 continuing to bring surprises, fans will have to wait and see what’s in store for Jimmy—whether that means a new romance, rekindled feelings with Knight, or something entirely unexpected.

Jennifer Esposito has built an impressive resume in crime dramas, frequently appearing in law enforcement-focused projects. From her various roles in the Law & Order universe to her part in Paul Haggis’ Crash and her guest appearance as CIA director Susan Raynor in The Boys, Esposito seems drawn to these roles—or they find her. In 2016, she joined the cast of NCIS, but like many original members, she eventually bid farewell.

Following Michael Weatherly’s departure as Tony DiNozzo in NCIS Season 13, the show introduced two new agents in Season 14: Wilmer Valderrama’s Nick Torres and Esposito’s Alex Quinn. Their addition brought fresh dynamics to the Major Crimes Response Team (MCRT), with Torres’ background as an undercover agent and Quinn’s expertise as an instructor at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC). For the first time, the team expanded to five agents, signaling an exciting shift after the exits of beloved characters Tony and Ziva David (Cote de Pablo). However, while Valderrama has remained with the series, Esposito quietly exited after just one season, without a formal sendoff.

Quinn’s character had an emotional depth that resonated with audiences. In NCIS Season 14, Episode 20, viewers were introduced to her mother, Marie Quinn (Mercedes Ruehl), who was battling Alzheimer’s. Gibbs, ever the compassionate leader, allowed Quinn to step away from a case to care for her mother, who struggled with the reality of her husband’s passing. As Marie’s condition worsened, Quinn ultimately chose to move in with her, prioritizing family over her career.

The Season 14 finale hinted at a deeper storyline for Quinn, with her receiving two mysterious phone calls. However, with Esposito’s departure, these moments were left unresolved. Co-showrunner Frank Cardea later revealed in an interview with Parade that Quinn’s mother’s illness was meant to “consume a little of her time,” suggesting that the character’s story had more to explore. In the NCIS Season 15 premiere, Torres briefly mentions that Quinn took a leave of absence to care for her mother, subtly implying that the unanswered calls were related to Marie’s health.

In an exclusive report from Deadline, Esposito described her time on NCIS as “a great experience” and expressed gratitude for the opportunity. However, her departure remains one of the more abrupt exits in the show’s history, especially since her storyline was just beginning to gain momentum.

Esposito holds the record for the shortest tenure of any NCIS series regular, appearing in only 24 episodes. Yet, NCIS has a history of reviving past characters—sometimes even from the dead. While Quinn hasn’t been mentioned since Season 15, the door remains open for a potential return if Esposito is interested.

With NCIS now heading into its 23rd season and approaching the milestone of 500 episodes, there could be an opportunity to bring back former cast members for a special event. Given Quinn’s strong work relationships with Torres, Timothy McGee (Sean Murray), and Jimmy Palmer (Brian Dietzen), she could make a surprise appearance—perhaps in a future NCIS spinoff led by Torres.

For those looking to revisit NCIS, the series is available to stream on Paramount+ in the U.S.

NCIS Season 22, Episode 13 Review: A Shocking Comeback and a Bloody Crime

NCIS Season 22, Episode 13, “Bad Blood,” is not for the squeamish. The episode kicks off with a Navy lieutenant’s murder at a blood drive, but things quickly spiral into a grisly crime with unexpected connections—including the return of a familiar villain. With its mix of shocking twists, forensic science, and a touch of humor, this episode keeps viewers on their toes.

A Murder, a Blood Drive, and a Shocking Link

The episode begins with the fatal shooting of Lieutenant Barbara Jellison, but her murder is just the tip of the iceberg. As the NCIS team digs deeper, they uncover a twisted scheme involving a health and wellness company—and the return of NCIS villain Fletcher Voss, played by TJ Thyne.

What makes “Bad Blood” work is its deep dive into forensic science. The case revolves around DNA, blood donations, and a gruesome crime scene—including a body found in a barrel of acid. While it takes some effort to follow the complex mystery, it offers a satisfying challenge for viewers.

Fletcher Voss’ Surprising Redemption Arc

The biggest twist? Fletcher Voss isn’t just back—he might not be the bad guy this time. Now the CEO of Life Sequence, a startup selling DNA-based health plans, Voss seems to have turned over a new leaf. When his girlfriend Lauren is murdered and he becomes a target, his reaction is shockingly human—especially when he learns she was pregnant with his child.

But why bring him back at all? NCIS uses “Bad Blood” to hint at a redemption arc for Voss. He claims prison changed him, and by the end of the episode, he’s having a heartfelt conversation about fatherhood with McGee. Still, the show leaves enough ambiguity for a possible villainous return down the line.

The Real Killers Fall Flat

While Voss’ return adds intrigue, the episode’s true villains are underwhelming. The masterminds behind the crime—his assistant Holly and company doctor Dr. Donovan—barely get enough screen time to make an impact. Holly poisoned Voss’ smoothies, and Lauren was killed by accident, but their motives feel rushed. At least NCIS avoids the tired “jealous assistant” trope.

Humor That Actually Works

Unlike some NCIS episodes where humor feels forced, “Bad Blood” balances comedy and drama well. McGee’s obsession with beating his kids’ school fundraiser rival provides some lighthearted moments, and Kasie’s caffeine-fueled antics add to the fun. Plus, fans of the NCIS universe will appreciate the subtle nods to NCIS: Sydney, Hawai’i, and New Orleans.

Final Verdict

While “Bad Blood” isn’t an all-time classic, it’s a solid episode with enough twists, forensic intrigue, and humor to keep fans entertained. TJ Thyne’s return as Fletcher Voss is the highlight, adding depth to an otherwise gory case. It may not be groundbreaking, but it’s worth watching—just don’t eat dinner while you do.

Rating: 7.5/10

NCIS airs Mondays at 9:00 p.m. on CBS.