Gary Glasberg, "NCIS" showrunner, is dead at 50
“NCIS” executive producer and showrunner Gary Glasberg passed away Wednesday in Los Angeles. He was 50.
Glasberg, who was also an executive producer and the creator of “NCIS: New Orleans,” passed away in his sleep, according to a network statement.
Glasberg joined “NCIS” in 2009 and was promoted to showrunner in 2011. He launched the New Orleans-set spin-off starring Scott Bakula in 2014.
“Gary was our rock, our cheerleader, our team captain,” the cast of “NCIS” said in a statement. “He inspired us with his leadership, his creative instincts and keen insight. ‘NCIS’ will not be the same without him, and each of us will miss his smiling face and unwavering humor, which lifted us every day.”
Before joining the hit drama, Glasberg worked on several successful television series, including “Shark,” “The Mentalist,” “Crossing Jordan” and “Bones.”
A New York City native, Glasberg is survived by his wife of 20 years, screenwriter Mimi Schmir, their two sons, Dash and Eli, his father, Edwin Glasberg, and his sister, Mindy Glasberg. Plans are underway for a memorial service in October.
CBS Television Studios president David Stapf said that Glasberg “epitomized the word mensch and brought kindness, integrity and class to everything he did.”
“His remarkable talent as a writer and producer was only matched by his ability to connect with people,” Stapf said in a statement. “Gary was a beloved member of our family and we are so honored that he called CBS his home for so many years. Our hearts go out to his wife, Mimi, two sons, his entire family and all those who loved him.”
Glenn Geller, CBS Entertainment’s president, was also saddened and surprised by the news of Glasberg’s passing.
“Today is an overwhelmingly sad day for ‘NCIS,’ CBS and anyone who was blessed to spend time with Gary Glasberg,” Geller said in a statement. “We have lost a cherished friend, gifted creative voice, respected leader and, most memorably, someone whose warmth and kindness was felt by all around him. Our heartfelt thoughts and sympathies go out to his wife, Mimi, his two sons and all his family and friends.”
Former “NCIS” star Michael Weatherly, who left the show at the end of last season, expressed his remorse as well, tweeting, “What sad a day this is. Gary Glasberg was a gentle man and gentleman loved by so many people. Send your love to his family.”