American TV series ‘NCIS’ actor David McCallum dies at 90

Actor David McCallum, who is best known for his performance in CBS procedural 'NCIS', has died in New York city.

Actor David McCallum dies at 90. Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia Commons

According to reports, he died of natural causes on Monday. He was 90.

The NCISverse wrote on X: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of David McCallum and privileged that CBS was his home for so many years. David was a gifted actor and author, and beloved by many around the world."

"He led an incredible life, and his legacy will forever live on through his family and the countless hours on film and television that will never go away. We will miss his warmth and endearing sense of humor that lit up any room or soundstage he stepped onto, as well as the brilliant stories he often shared from a life well-lived. 

"Our hearts go out to his wife Katherine and his entire family, and all those who knew and loved David," the statement read. 

The Scottish actor gained wide recognition in the 1960s for playing secret agent Illya Kuryakin in the television series The Man from U.N.C.L.E.

His other notable television roles include Carter in Colditz (1972–1974) and Steel in Sapphire & Steel (1979–1982).

Beginning in 2003, McCallum gained renewed international popularity for his role as NCIS medical examiner Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard in the American television series NCIS.

On film, McCallum notably appeared in The Great Escape (1963).