George Schenck, ‘NCIS’ Writer, Producer, and Showrunner, Dies at 82

George Schenck, known for his influential role as writer, producer, and co-showrunner on NCIS during its initial 15 seasons, passed away on Saturday at his Los Angeles home. He was 82, according to a network spokesperson.

Schenck and his long-time creative partner, Frank Cardea, shared a remarkable partnership spanning 40 years. The duo not only collaborated on NCIS, but also co-created the CBS adventure series “Bring ‘Em Back Alive” from 1982-83, the CBS crime drama “Crazy Like a Fox” from 1984-86, and the ABC drama “Pros and Cons” during the 1991-92 season.

Their work on NCIS began with its first season in 2003, contributing to nearly 50 episodes. In November 2016, following the sudden death of Gary Glasberg, they were promoted to co-showrunners. “It’s with heavy hearts that we assume his duties,” they said at the time.

NCIS star and producer Mark Harmon expressed his condolences in a statement, saying, “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.”

Schenck retired from the series in 2018, while Cardea continued until 2022.

Born on February 12, 1942, George William Schenck came from a family deeply rooted in the film industry. His father, Aubrey Schenck, produced films for Fox, Eagle-Lion Pictures, and collaborated with Howard W. Koch on projects such as “T-Men” (1947) and “Robinson Crusoe on Mars” (1964). His great uncles, Nicholas and Joseph Schenck, managed MGM and Fox.

George Schenck graduated with a degree in screenwriting from the University of Southern California (USC), followed by a graduate degree from USC’s film school’s inaugural class. He also served in the U.S. Navy.

His early credits include episodes of “The Wild Wild West,” “Branded,” “Hondo,” and “Bonanza,” as well as writing for films like “Don’t Worry, We’ll Think of a Title” (1966) and “More Dead Than Alive” (1969), featuring Clint Walker.

Schenck co-wrote the 1974 CBS telefilm “The Phantom of Hollywood” and “Futureworld” (1976), the first sequel to Michael Crichton’s hit “Westworld.”

Together, Schenck and Cardea managed a production company at Columbia Pictures Television. Their combined efforts produced episodes for various shows, including “Fantasy Island,” “The Cosby Mysteries,” “High Sierra Search and Rescue,” “The Great Defender,” “Soldier of Fortune, Inc.,” “Relic Hunter,” and “Hack.”

George Schenck is survived by his children, Kirk and Jeff, their wives Allison and Natalie, and his grandchildren, Aidan, Andrew, Ryan, Jordan, and Owen. His wife of over 50 years, Virginia, passed away in March 2023. Donations in his memory can be made to the Writers Guild Foundation.

Source: various sources