NCIS Pays Tribute to Ducky in Emotional Episode Featuring a Surprise Return
NCIS honored the late Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard with a moving tribute in Season 21, Episode 2, titled “The Stories We Leave Behind.” The episode focuses not only on remembering Ducky but also on completing the last case he was working on before his death. Rather than relying solely on flashbacks and memories, the show chose to celebrate Ducky’s legacy through action and closure.
To make the episode even more meaningful, NCIS brought back Michael Weatherly as Tony DiNozzo to support Jimmy Palmer, Ducky’s longtime protégé. There were also subtle nods to other beloved characters, including Leroy Jethro Gibbs and Abby Sciuto.
One of the most touching tributes came in the form of a black rose wreath sent to Kasie’s lab. Decorated with a sparkling skull, it was a quiet but unmistakable gesture from Abby, even though she wasn’t shown on screen. For long-time fans, the wreath was a heartfelt reminder of the deep bond between Abby and Ducky—two original characters who shared years of camaraderie and respect.
Abby’s absence is understandable, as actress Pauley Perrette left NCIS after Season 15. Her character left the team following a traumatic assassination attempt that killed MI6 Agent Clayton Reeves. In response, Abby quit her job, returned to England with Reeves’ body, and founded a charity in his honor.
Behind the scenes, Perrette’s departure was tied to personal conflict and claims of mistreatment on set. She later stated she had no plans to return to the show. Despite this, NCIS found a respectful way to acknowledge Abby’s connection to Ducky through the symbolic wreath—placed in the lab she once called home.
Though Mark Harmon didn’t appear in the episode, there was also a subtle update about what Gibbs has been doing since his departure, further connecting the show’s rich history with its present.