Brian Dietzen, who plays Jimmy Palmer on “NCIS,” has stepped into a new role as the chief medical examiner on the show following the departure of David McCallum’s character, Ducky. With McCallum’s passing in September, Dietzen found himself co-writing a tribute episode to honor both the character of Ducky and the actor himself alongside executive producer Scott Williams. The episode, titled “The Stories We Leave Behind,” has aired on CBS and is expected to be emotional for longtime fans, especially considering McCallum’s impressive career spanning decades.
In an interview, Dietzen shared his experience of writing the tribute episode so soon after McCallum’s death and the importance of providing catharsis for both the audience and himself. He also discussed the challenges of balancing emotional scenes with the show’s crime element, as well as the impact of Ducky’s storytelling on the series.
Reflecting on his time working alongside McCallum, Dietzen admired the actor’s dedication to his craft and commitment to his family. He also highlighted McCallum’s decision to step back from a full-time role on the show, emphasizing the actor’s desire to prioritize family time and enjoy life outside of work.
Regarding his character Jimmy, Dietzen emphasized the development of Jimmy’s personal life on the show and hinted at future storylines involving his romantic relationship and comedic scenes. He also noted the shift in the portrayal of inter-office romances on “NCIS,” expressing the audience’s appreciation for positive and mature relationships in the series.
As a long-standing member of the “NCIS” cast, Dietzen expressed gratitude for the evolution of his character and the opportunity to contribute to the show’s continued success.
Overall, Dietzen’s insights offer a heartfelt look at the impact of the tribute episode and the enduring legacy of “NCIS” as it continues to captivate audiences with compelling storytelling and character development.
Vocabulary List:
- Tribute (noun): An act, statement, or gift that is intended to show gratitude, respect, or admiration.
- Catharsis (noun): The process of releasing, and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions.
- Portrayal (noun): The manner in which someone or something is depicted or represented.
- Inter-office (adjective): Relating to or taking place between different offices within the same organization.
- Gratitude (noun): The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
- Evolution (noun): The gradual development or change of something over time.
