Beloved actor David McCallum, known for his roles in "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." and "NCIS," has passed away at the age of 90, surrounded by his family at New York Presbyterian Hospital. CBS released a statement mourning the loss of the talented actor and author, stating that he will be remembered for his incredible talent and the countless hours of film and television he left behind. McCallum, a Scottish-born actor, had a successful career in films before gaining fame in the mid-'60s with his role as Illya Kuryakin, the Russian sidekick to Robert Vaughn's Napoleon Solo in "The Man from U.N.C.L.E.". The show, which debuted in 1964, became a hit among teenage girls who were attracted to McCallum's good looks and enigmatic character. The series lasted until 1968 and brought McCallum two Emmy nominations. He reunited with Vaughn in 1983 for a TV movie called "The Return of the Man from U.N.C.L.E.".

After a long hiatus from television, McCallum returned in 2003 to star in CBS' “NCIS” as the eccentric medical examiner Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard. The series, which focused on the Naval Criminal Investigation Service, became a massive success and remains a top-rated show. McCallum took the role seriously, spending time in a Los Angeles coroner's office to gain insight into his character's profession. Co-star Lauren Holly took to social media to express her sorrow over his passing, describing him as the kindest man. CBS announced that the previously planned 20th-anniversary “NCIS” marathon would include an "in memoriam" card in remembrance of McCallum.

Throughout his career, McCallum appeared in numerous other TV shows and films, including "Murder, She Wrote" and "Sex and the City." He also had a brief stint on Broadway in the comedy "The Flip Side" in 1968 and starred in a revival of “Amadeus” in 1999. Despite his success in the entertainment industry, McCallum remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He once stated that he believed hard work was the key to success and that he was lucky to have experienced serendipitous moments throughout his career.

Born in Glasgow in 1933, McCallum came from a musical family. His father played violin for the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and his mother played cello. Initially studying oboe at the Royal Academy of Music, McCallum eventually switched to acting and trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He served in the British military before pursuing acting full-time. In 1957, he married Jill Ireland, who was also an actress. They had three children together before divorcing in 1967. McCallum then married Katherine Carpenter, a former model, and they remained happily married for 42 years. McCallum's son, Peter, described him as a true Renaissance man who was fascinated by science and culture.

David McCallum leaves behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry, with his memorable roles in "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." and "NCIS." He will be remembered as a gifted actor, a beloved family man, and a true legend.