David Keith McCallum (19 September 1933 – 25 September 2023) was a Scottish actor and musician based in the United States. He gained wide recognition in the 1960s for playing secret agent Illya Kuryakin in the television series The Man from U.N.C.L.E (1964–1968).
His other notable roles include Simon Carter in Colditz (1972–1974) and Steel in Sapphire & Steel (1979–1982). McCallum also gained international popularity as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on NCIS from 2003 until his death in 2023.
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David McCallum Net Worth
David McCallum had a net worth of $15 million at the time of his death. McCallum was best known for starring as secret agent Illya Kuryakin on “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” (1964–1968) and medical examiner Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on “NCIS” (2003–2023). His NCIS salary was $175,000 per episode.
McCallum had over 130 acting credits, including films like “Billy Budd” (1962) and “The Great Escape” (1963). He died on September 25, 2023, at the age of 90.
Early Life
David Keith McCallum was born on 19 September 1933 in Glasgow, the second of two sons of orchestral violinist David Fotheringham and cellist Dorothy McCallum (née Dorman). At age three, his family moved to London for his father’s role with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
During the Second World War, he was evacuated to Scotland, living with his mother at Gartocharn by Loch Lomond. McCallum won a scholarship to University College School, played the oboe, and later joined the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.
Career
In 1951, McCallum became assistant stage manager of the Glyndebourne Opera Company. He began his acting career in 1947 doing boy voices for BBC Radio and took bit parts in British films in the late 1950s. His first role was in Whom the Gods Love, Die Young.
In 1956, he signed with the Rank Organisation. Early roles included an outlaw in Robbery Under Arms (1957), junior RMS Titanic radio operator in A Night to Remember (1958), and Harold Bride. His first American film was Freud: The Secret Passion (1962).
Personal Life
On 11 May 1957, McCallum married actress Jill Ireland in London. They met during the production of Hell Drivers. The marriage legally ended in February 1967, after a separation of two years.
McCallum and Ireland had three sons: Paul, Jason, and Valentine (Val). Jason, adopted, died from an accidental drug overdose in 1989. On 16 September 1967, McCallum married Katherine Carpenter. They had a son, Peter, and a daughter, Sophie. McCallum was naturalized as a U.S. citizen on 27 August 1999.
What was the cause of death of David McCallum?
David McCallum died at the age of 90 on Monday from natural causes. He passed away surrounded by family at New York Presbyterian Hospital, according to a statement from CBS.
Conclusion
David McCallum’s career was a testament to his enduring talent and versatility. His journey from a young actor in Scotland to an esteemed figure in Hollywood demonstrates his significant impact on the entertainment industry. His legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences globally.
FAQs about David McCallum
- What was David McCallum’s most memorable role? – His portrayal of Illya Kuryakin in “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”
- Did David McCallum have any musical achievements? – Yes, he released several music albums showcasing his musical talent.
- What was David McCallum’s last acting role? – His role as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on “NCIS.”
- Did David McCallum write any books? – Yes, he authored the crime novel “Once a Crooked Man.”
- What awards did David McCallum receive? – He received several Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for his work.
