‘NCIS’ Fans Are Emotional Over This Original Cast Member's Surprise Return

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NCIS paid tribute to the late David McCallum in the latest episode of season 21, and viewers were shocked when a former cast member made a surprise appearance.

In the February 19 episode titled "The Stories We Leave Behind," folks saw the NCIS team come together to mourn the loss of David's character, Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard. While the group is busy trying to solve the doc's final case, fans were treated to various flashbacks of Ducky alongside former colleagues Leroy Gibbs (Mark Harmon), Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly), Ziva David (Cote de Pablo) and Abby Sciuto (Pauley Perrette). These emotional scenes helped illustrate the impact Ducky — and David — had on team members past and present.

But the familiar faces weren't limited to previously aired scenes. Fans were in for a special cameo at the very end of the episode. As Jimmy Palmer (Brian Dietzen) anxiously prepares to deliver the eulogy for his mentor, he's surprised by DiNozzo's return. In the character's first appearance since leaving for Paris to be with Ziva in 2016, DiNozzo walks in with a meaningful gift and some kind words for Palmer.

"Are we here to celebrate a great man or what?" DiNozzo says in greeting. They share a special moment before Palmer turns off the light at his former boss' workspace and the two exit for the memorial.

Fans immediately reacted to the scene, expressing emotion over the fact that Michael reprised his role as DiNozzo for the first time in order to honor his late co-star.

"Michael Weatherly making an appearance seems just right. RIP David McCallum," one person wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). "So damn excited to see Michael Weatherly reprise his role at DiNozzo tonight on #NCIS. So fitting," another added. "Getting Michael Weatherly back for this episode was the cherry on the cake. BITTERSWEET. POIGNANT," a different viewer replied.

Folks may remember David passed away at the age of 90 from natural causes in September 2023. At the time, his co-stars Wilmer Valderrama and Mark Harmon shared personal statements honoring the actor's legacy and their friendships with him.

Michael seemingly teased DiNozzo's return on X back in January, which led fans to beg for the character to come back to the show. After the February 19 episode aired, the actor posted a "thank you" on X.

"Being back on #NCIS was truly Amazing. 🙏 to @BrianDietzen @CBS & @ncisverse Seeing everyone behind the camera was a box of treasure: one glorious shining jewel was @DanielaRuah who is directing up a storm! #Ducky would have loved all the smiles! Gotta go-there’s work to do!" the caption read.

Will that work include more DiNozzo in season 21? Only time will tell …

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