'NCIS' Pays Tribute to David McCallum with Emotional Episode

The episode titled 'The Stories We Leave Behind' honors the late actor through a posthumous case resolution and a surprise return by Michael Weatherly.

David McCallum, known for his role as Dr. Donald 'Ducky' Mallard on 'NCIS,' passed away at age 90, leading to a tribute episode titled 'The Stories We Leave Behind.'
The episode, co-written by Brian Dietzen (Jimmy Palmer), featured the team solving one last case posthumously with Ducky's help, exonerating a wrongfully discharged veteran.
Michael Weatherly made a surprise return as Tony DiNozzo, offering support and a Ducky-inspired bow tie to Jimmy Palmer before Ducky's memorial.
The tribute included emotional scenes, such as Jimmy discovering Ducky's passing and reflecting on their relationship, as well as the team sharing memories of Ducky.
The episode concluded with the reversal of a dishonorable discharge, tuition assistance for a veteran's daughter, and a message about the importance of the stories and lives we leave behind.