The Man from U.N.C.L.E star David McCallum left nearly £100,000 to his wife upon his death, according to his will. McCallum passed away at the age of 90 on 25 September, 2023. The actor, who rose to fame in the 1960s spy drama, also starred alongside Steve McQueen in the war film The Great Escape.
More recently, the Scottish-born star, who resided in New York, gained recognition among younger viewers for his long-standing role as medical examiner Dr. Donald ‘Ducky’ Mullard in the TV series NCIS. Documents reveal that his estate in England and Wales was valued at £97,307 at the time of his death. His wife Katherine, who also served as the administrator of his estate, inherited the entirety of his British assets. His will, drafted in 2010, was ratified by the Nassau County Surrogate’s court in New York.
McCallum fathered five children from two separate relationships. From his first marriage to Jill Ireland, he had three children – Valentine, Paul and adopted son Jason, who died from a drug overdose in 1989.
He also had two children with his second wife Katherine Carpenter – son Peter and daughter Sophie. His will stipulated that if Katherine predeceased him, his estate would be left to Peter and Sophie.
In the event of Katherine’s early demise, the will also made provisions for Paul and Valentine, his sons with Jill Ireland, each of whom would receive $100,000.
The actor enjoyed a lengthy career, featuring in TV series such as Colditz, The Invisible Man and Sapphire and Steel. However, he is perhaps most recognised for his portrayal of the enigmatic Soviet agent Illya Kuryakin in The Man from U.N.C. L. E.
He was honoured with numerous Emmy and Golden Globe nominations before the series concluded in 1968.
In a statement announcing his death, US broadcaster CBS said: “David was a gifted actor and author, and beloved by many around the world.
“He led an incredible life, and his legacy will forever live on through his family and the countless hours on film and television that will never go away.”