By Natalia Rueda 
On Monday, the entertainment world lost a beloved figure with the passing of David McCallum at the age of 90. The talented actor and writer captured the hearts of millions with his iconic roles as Illya Kuryakin on The CIPOL Agent and Dr. Donald Mallard on NCIS.
McCallum’s rise to fame began in the 1960s when he starred as the dashing Russian spy, Illya Kuryakin, in “The C.I.P.O.L Agent.” His charismatic portrayal of the character captured the hearts of viewers and solidified his status as a pop culture icon and heartthrob of the era. Alongside Robert Vaughn, McCallum received critical acclaim for his performance and earned a devoted following.
In 2003 he landed the role of Dr. Donald Mallard, aka Ducky, on the hit detective series NCIS. For 20 seasons, he brought warmth, humor and humanity to the character, making Ducky a fan favorite and integral to the series’ success.
While his on-screen performances were undeniably impressive, McCallum’s talents extended far beyond acting. He was a passionate lover of science and culture, having studied at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
McCallum leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten. His memorable performances as Illya Kuryakin and Ducky will be cherished by fans for generations to come. He is survived by his wife, four children, and eight grandchildren.
With information from El País