Adam Campbell Was ‘Scared’ to Play a Young Ducky in “NCIS” Until David McCallum Gave Him a Key Piece of Advice

**Young Ducky Finds His Footing: Adam Campbell Talks Transition into NCIS Role**

Adam Campbell, the actor who portrays the younger version of Donald “Ducky” Mallard on the long-running series NCIS, has revealed that he had some initial trepidation about stepping into such an iconic character. During a recent appearance on the NCIS: Partners & Probies podcast, Campbell shared insights on his experience of joining the cast in 2014, marking a pivotal moment in his career.

The character of Ducky has been a staple of the NCIS series, expertly brought to life by David McCallum for an impressive 20 seasons. Following McCallum’s passing at the age of 90 in 2023, Campbell reflected on the legacy left by the actor, whose portrayal resonated deeply with fans of the show. This rich history made Campbell’s task even more daunting as he joined the franchise.

When he was cast, Campbell admitted that he felt “a little bit scared” about the project. “I was aware that I would be under scrutiny,” he confessed, recognising the expectations that came with playing such a cherished role. His apprehension stemmed from a desire to honour Ducky’s character while navigating the challenge of embodying the younger version of the beloved medical examiner.

However, Campbell soon found comfort after an unexpected outreach from McCallum himself. In a gesture that spoke volumes about his character, McCallum called Campbell shortly after he was cast. “I don’t know how he got my number, but he just phoned me and said, ‘I hear you’re playing the younger version of me. Let’s have lunch,’” Campbell recounted.

The lunch took place on the set, where the two actors enjoyed a candid conversation about the character and the world of NCIS. For Campbell, the meeting was transformative, easing his anxieties significantly. “I felt brilliant after that,” he said, reflecting on the kindness and encouragement he received from McCallum, who had become an icon on the show.

During their discussion, McCallum imparted a vital piece of advice that Campbell found invaluable. “One thing he said was, ‘Don’t try to do an impression of me,’” Campbell recalled. This advice proved crucial, as he had initially contemplated mimicking McCallum’s portrayal. Instead, the advice pushed him to focus on developing his own interpretation of Ducky, allowing the character’s essence to shine through while still paying homage to its roots.

Throughout the podcast, Campbell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to take part in a series with such depth and a dedicated fanbase. He acknowledged that playing a younger version of Ducky allowed him to illustrate different facets of the character, bridging the gap between McCallum’s established version and the young Ducky’s formative years.

The actor’s journey from initial anxiety to newfound confidence highlights the importance of mentorship and collaboration within the entertainment industry. Campbell’s experience is a testament to how supportive gestures can profoundly impact an actor’s performance and ease the transition into demanding roles.

As NCIS continues to thrive, Adam Campbell’s portrayal of young Ducky reminds fans of the character’s enduring legacy, while simultaneously carving out a unique space in the show’s rich tapestry. As he moves forward, Campbell aims to honour McCallum’s memory and further develop the role in a way that resonates with both new viewers and long-time fans alike.