It hasn’t been long since Adam Campbell made his debut on NCIS: Origins as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, and now he is coming back for another appearance! Campbell portrayed young Ducky on the original NCIS, and we met him again when Ducky appeared in season 2 of the prequel series. What will bring Ducky back to the world of the young Leroy Jethro Gibbs?
Ducky will be back on NCIS: Origins on Tuesday, March 31, where he will come to help the team when one of their own is arrested. The episode titled “Homeward Bound” will follow Dr. Tango (Julian Black Antelope) when he is under arrest on suspicion of taking human remains from a national park.
To prove his innocence, Ducky returns to help the team, which not only establishes him as a trusted colleague but also strengthens his future friendship with Gibbs (Austin Stowell).
The last time the team saw Ducky was in episode 3 of season 2. He had been sent to Camp Pendleton to see if an in-house medical examiner was needed. Despite having reservations about his presence, they eventually came to enjoy his company.
He also proved to have a good memory, even bringing Gibbs a gift. He apparently remembered him looking at a ship in the bottle the last time they met, and he brought it to Gibbs so he could have it. Fans are looking forward to seeing them interact again, especially so soon after Campbell’s last appearance!
NCIS: Origins has been laying the groundwork in showing how the experiences Gibbs has been through shaped him into who he is today. This will mark Ducky’s first time visiting Gibbs since he got married, so it will be interesting to see how he responds to a new change in his new friend’s life.
Before the episode with Ducky airs, Tuesday, March 24, will find the team preparing for the arrival of the NIS Regional Director. As per the synopsis, he apparently wants to transfer Mary Jo out of the office. We can’t imagine the office without Mary Jo, and it looks like she will be investigating the death of two Marines on the roadside in the midst of this situation.
Season 2 has been truly entertaining so far, and fans are looking forward to discovering more information about Gibbs and the rest of the crew during this time period. Now with Campbell returning as Ducky, there’s more reason to be excited for what is to come.
NCIS: Origins airs Tuesdays on CBS at 9/8c. Episodes are also available on Paramount+.