Motion: Honouring David McCallum with a Blue Plaque in Hillhead

23 September 2026

What is a motion of the Scottish Parliament?

Motions are lodged by MSPs and recognise achievements in the constituency. Other MSPs can also sign them to show their support. As well as raising awareness to a wider audience, it is also in the official record for future generations.

 

Motion reference S7M-01320, submitted by Bob Doris MSP

That the Parliament welcomes the unveiling of a Blue Plaque in Hillhead, Glasgow, honouring the life and achievements of the internationally acclaimed actor and musician, David McCallum; notes that the plaque was unveiled at 24 Kersland Street, where he was born in 1933; recognises that the honour arose from a partnership between Glasgow Clyde College and The Rt Hon The Lord Provost of Glasgow, Councillor Jacqueline McLaren, to identify a recipient for a new Blue Plaque in the city; acknowledges that David enjoyed a distinguished career spanning more than seven decades across film, television and music; notes that he achieved international recognition for his portrayal of Illya Kuryakin in The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and, later, Dr Donald “Ducky” Mallard in NCIS, a role he performed for 20 seasons until his passing in 2023; further notes his appearances in major films including, The Great Escape and The Greatest Story Ever Told, and that his work earned Emmy and Golden Globe nominations; commends the efforts of the staff and students of Glasgow Clyde College, led by James McIvor, in bringing the project to fruition; recognises the importance of celebrating the achievements of Glaswegians who have made a lasting contribution to the arts and culture internationally, and believes that the plaque will serve as a fitting tribute to David's legacy while inspiring future generations to pursue their ambitions from Glasgow to the world.