'NCIS,' 'NCIS: New Orleans' Producer Gary Glasberg Dies At 50
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Gary Glasberg, the executive producer of "NCIS" and creator of "NCIS: New Orleans", died Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 50.
Glasberg passed away in his sleep, according to a CBS statement.
"We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend and colleague Gary Glasberg. He epitomized the word 'mensch' and brought kindness, integrity and class to everything he did," David Stapf, president of CBS Television Studios, said in a statement.
Glasberg joined "NCIS" as a co-executive producer and writer in 2009. He became the show's showrunner in 2011 and "NCIS" has since become the No. 1 drama in the world and the most-watched scripted drama in America for five consecutive seasons.
"Gary was our rock, our cheerleader, our team captain. He inspired us with his leadership, his creative instincts and keen insight," a statement from the "NCIS" cast and crew said. "'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."
He created the successful spinoff, "NCIS: New Orleans," in 2014.
"Today is an overwhelmingly sad day for 'NCIS,' CBS and anyone who was blessed to spend time with Gary Glasberg," said Glenn Geller, president of CBS Entertainment, 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."
Glasberg, who was born in New York City, began his Hollywood career as a writer 20 years ago, writing comic books and animation for companies such as Warner Bros., Disney, Nickelodeon, Fox and Hanna-Barbera. His TV credits include "Shark," "The Mentalist," "Crossing Jordan," "The $treet" and "Bones."
He is survived by his wife of 20 years, TV producer and screenwriter Mimi Schmir, sons Dash and Eli, his father Edwin Glasberg and sister Mindy Glasberg.
A memorial service is being planned for October.