David McCallum, star of The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and NCIS, dies aged 90

British actor David McCallum who was known for playing a Russian secret agent in the ‘60’s spy drama The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and ‘Ducky’ in NCIS, has died at age 90.

The Scottish-born actor died of natural causes in New York on Monday. His family were by his side at New York Presbyterian Hospital, CBS said.

“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,” said a statement from CBS.

McCallum’s role as Illya Kuryakin, alongside Robert Vaughn, in The Man from U.N.C.L.E made him a heartthrob and household name in the 1960s. 

He would go on to be nominated for several Emmy Awards and Golden Globes for the role. The series ended in 1968 where he went on to star in films including The great escape, The Greatest Story Ever Told and A Night to Remember.

McCallum reunited with co-star Vaughn in 1983 to star in a nostalgic film which saw the two agents lured out of a life of retirement to save the world one last time.

The son of parents who were classical musicians, McCallum initially started out as a musician before pursuing a career as an actor.

He returned to television in 2003 where he played the role of pathologist Dr Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard on the CBS series Naval Criminal Investigation Service (NCIS). He also found roles as a voice actor for children’s cartoons and video games.

A statement issued by McCallum’s family said he was a ‘true renaissance man’.

His son, Peter McCallum said: “He was the kindest, coolest, most patient and loving father. He always put family before self.

“He was fascinated by science and culture and would turn those passions into knowledge.”