Adam Campbell Teases Exciting Reunion of Ducky and Gibbs in NCIS: Origins
Adam Campbell is set to reprise his role as young Donald “Ducky” Mallard in the upcoming episode of NCIS: Origins on CBS, bringing a fresh perspective on the beloved character. This episode, airing on October 28, 2024, focuses on the rekindling of friendships between Ducky and Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed by Austin Stowell in this prequel series.
Fans of the original NCIS series first met Ducky, who was played by the late David McCallum, in 2003. As the medical examiner, Ducky developed a close working relationship with Gibbs, and NCIS: Origins takes viewers back to 1991, exploring Gibbs’ early days as an agent. While the prequel has featured various characters from Gibbs’ past, Ducky’s appearance marks a significant moment for fans eager for nostalgia.
In a recent interview with Us Weekly, Campbell shared insights about the episode’s tone and content. “This episode highlights Ducky’s relationship with Gibbs quite profoundly, starting 12 years after their first meeting,” he explained. The narrative promises to shift slightly, offering both levity and depth, as Ducky interacts with characters like Special Agent Mike Franks and Lala Dominguez, played by Kyle Schmid and Mariel Molino, respectively.
Campbell elaborated on Ducky’s role during this episode, revealing that he evaluates the operations at Camp Pendleton in California. “He’s more of an uncle to the San Diego team,” Campbell remarked, emphasizing Ducky’s comforting presence. “This episode brings out new revelations that fans will find quite intriguing.”
As the storyline unfolds, viewers will also encounter nods to Ducky’s legacy and his famed practice of speaking to the deceased during autopsies. This characteristic, which resonated with audiences throughout McCallum’s two-decade portrayal, has its roots explored in this episode. Campbell noted, “He leaves California a slightly changed man because of his new understanding of his work.”
The significance of Ducky’s initial meeting with Gibbs is also a focal point. Campbell described how this encounter impacts Ducky’s life trajectory, revealing that Gibbs suggests Ducky might excel as a medical examiner. “There’s a slight disappointment in Ducky that Gibbs isn’t quite as fond of the reunion as he is,” Campbell added, hinting at the emotional layers in their dynamic.
The episode also features a charming farewell moment between Ducky and Gibbs, which Campbell described as a “little private inside joke” between the characters. This interaction is anticipated to resonate with long-time fans of the franchise.
While Campbell does not have plans for further appearances in NCIS: Origins, he playfully suggested that every show could benefit from more Ducky. “Even shows like Game of Thrones or Euphoria would be more enjoyable with him,” he quipped.
NCIS: Origins airs on CBS every Tuesday at 21:00 ET, promising an engaging blend of nostalgia and new revelations for dedicated viewers and newcomers alike.
