- “NCIS” star David McCallum recently passed away days after turning 90 years old.
- In an interview before he died, he spoke about his private life and family.
- His interview divulged the “many memories” he recalled throughout his life and career.
David McCallum in “Robbery Under Arms” in 1957 | Source: Getty Images
Recently, the life of a cherished actor, beloved husband, father, and grandfather who always put his family before himself has been lost. David McCallum, known for his time on “NCIS,” tragically passed away a few days after turning 90 years old.
David McCallum at the 7th Annual American Red Cross Red Tie Affair in Santa Monica, California on April 6, 2013 | Source: Getty Images
CBS, the network which produced the long-running show, confirmed the news of his passing in a statement. According to a news outlet, the Scottish actor died from natural causes at New York Presbyterian Hospital and was surrounded by his loved ones.
David McCallum at the 2nd Annual TV Film Science Tech Awards in Beverly Hills, California on November 15, 2012 | Source: Getty Images
David McCallum Prioritized His Family and Devoted Himself to Spending More Time with Them
The late family man has long been revered by many for playing the medical examiner on “NCIS,” but his acting feats were showcased long before this. From 1964 to 1968, he captured the hearts of many when he played a Soviet spy in “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”
David McCallum and Katherine Carpenter at the closing ceremony for the Monte Carlo Television Festival in Monte-Carlo, Monaco on June 11, 2009 | Source: Getty Images
Though David’s successful career was something important to him, his family meant everything and more, and the star placed them over and above anything else. In fact, wherever possible, David would do what he could to adjust his work schedule to spend more time with his family.
The “Sapphire & Steel” star was married to Katherine Carpenter for over 50 years, and together they welcomed children and, eventually, grandchildren. At the time, the late star was still working on “NCIS,” but had worked out an arrangement with the show’s executives to allow him to spend more time with his family:
“I am delighted to say that I have reached an agreement with CBS for Dr. Donald Mallard to stay with NCIS for Season 16. Once again it will be a limited schedule. That arrangement will allow me to spend time with Katherine, our children, six grandsons…”
Katherine Carpenter and David McCallum at the Tony Bennett: Celebrating 90 Years Of Artistry, Original Artwork & Classic TV Performances VIP Opening Reception in New York City on May 3, 2017 | Source: Getty Images
What David McCallum Said in an Interview before He Passed Away
Last year, the late grandfather did an interview that discussed his career and life. During the conversation, David reflected on the start of his career, memorable moments, accomplishments, and meaningful and impactful connections he made along the way.
David McCallum in an episode of “NCIS” in 2022 | Source: Getty Images
While recounting his experiences, David had abundant details to share. Of the times in his life and career, “The Great Escape” talent expressed:
“I have so many memories, so many people and places.”
David McCallum at the CBS and UPN 2005 TCA Party in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Among the many topics David discussed, his commitment to providing for his family and his time on “NCIS” was brought up. After gushing about his talented wife, he spoke about “NCIS.” Of “NCIS,” David mentioned possibly traveling to California to film the show:
“I have two shows left on this contract…I have a feeling it’s going to be the last two shows of the season. Usually they like to have everybody in those.”
David McCallum at the CBS, CW, Showtime Summer TCA Party in West Hollywood, California on August 10, 2016 | Source: Getty Images
Although David went on to express some apprehension about traveling to film with new people, as some of his former co-stars had moved on from the show during that time, he still had some people who he knew and liked working with. Concerning any plans he had to retire, David said that for him and Katherine, retirement was a work in progress.
David McCallum at the 49th Monte Carlo Television Festival in Monte-Carlo, Monaco on June 10, 2009 | Source: Getty Images
David’s loved ones continue to mourn their devastating loss, and many send their condolences for the late star’s passing.
David is survived by his wife, his children, and grandchildren.
