Ducky retired from his role as the Chief Medical Examiner but remained with NCIS in a different capacity.
Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, portrayed by David McCallum, was a staple character on NCIS since the show’s inception. Over the years, fans grew to love his character for his wisdom, storytelling, and forensic expertise. As the series progressed, Ducky’s role evolved. In the later seasons, particularly from Season 16 onwards, Ducky started contemplating retirement from his position as the Chief Medical Examiner, feeling that it was time to let the next generation take over.
In Season 16, Ducky officially announced his retirement from the role of Chief Medical Examiner, passing the torch to his assistant, Dr. Jimmy Palmer, who had been prepared for the role under Ducky’s mentorship. However, Ducky did not leave the show entirely. Instead, he transitioned to a new role as NCIS Historian, a position that allowed him to continue contributing his vast knowledge of forensic science and history to the team, albeit in a less hands-on capacity.
David McCallum’s reduced presence on the show was a result of a mutual decision to scale back his workload. Despite stepping back, McCallum continued to make guest appearances, providing guidance and support to the team when needed. His character’s transition allowed for a natural progression in the storyline, honoring Ducky’s legacy while also respecting McCallum’s tenure on the series.