Former NCIS Showrunner George Schenck Dies at 82

Former NCIS showrunner George Schenck passed away peacefully at his home in Brentwood, Calif. on Aug. 3. He was 82.

Schenck and longtime writing partner Frank Cardea began their journey with NCIS early in Season 1, initially as consulting producers. By Season 9, they had risen to executive producers, and in Season 14, they took on the roles of co-showrunners following the sudden death of five-season showrunner Gary Glasberg.

Mark Harmon, who starred as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs through early Season 19 and continues to be an executive producer, expressed his condolences. “So sorry to hear the news on George. The professionalism and tenacity of George and Frank changed the face of the show. I’m so appreciative of the team and teamwork they both represented,” he stated.

Schenck, along with Cardea, wrote numerous episodes of NCIS, including the series’ milestone 250th episode. During their tenure as co-showrunners, they oversaw the introduction of Maria Bello as forensic psychologist Jacqueline “Jack” Sloane in Season 15, and they managed the late Season 15 departure of original cast member Pauley Perrette, known for her role as Abby.

Schenck was born on February 12, 1942. He cultivated his passion for writing at the University of Southern California, graduating with a degree in screenwriting. He furthered his education by obtaining a graduate degree from the Film School’s new writers’ program.

After serving in the U.S. Navy, Schenck began a solo career as a writer for independent films before teaming up with Cardea. Together, they worked on TV series like CBS’ Crazy Like a Fox (starring Jack Warden and John Rubinstein), CBS’ Bring ‘Em Back Alive (starring Bruce Boxleitner), and ABC’s Pros and Cons (featuring James Earl Jones and Richard Crenna). Schenck joined the NCIS writing staff from its inception and served as a showrunner from fall 2016 until his retirement in 2018.

Schenck’s wife of over 50 years, Virginia, passed away last year. He is survived by their two children, Kirk and Jeff, along with five grandchildren.

Source: TVLine, Particle News