Already have an account?
Get back to the

’NCIS’ Showrunner Gary Glasberg Dead at 50 — Read the Cast Reactions

Gary Glasberg
Gary Glasberg

Gary Glasberg, NCIS showrunner and the creator of NCIS: New Orleans, died on Wednesday, September 28. The longtime TV writer and producer passed away in his sleep of unknown causes, CBS confirmed to Variety. He was 50.

Related: PHOTOS: Celebrity Deaths in 2016: Stars We’ve Lost

“Gary was our rock, our cheerleader, our team captain. He inspired us with his leadership, his creative instincts and keen insight,” the NCIS cast said in a statement via Twitter. ”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.”

Glasberg worked on the award-winning series for seven years. His credits also include Crossing Jordan and The Mentalist. He is survived by his wife, screenwriter Mimi Schmir, and two sons, Dash and Eli, as well as his mother and father.

The cast of TV’s most-watched drama also expressed on Twitter their shock and sadness over Glasberg’s sudden passing.

Related: PHOTOS: TV's 10 Most Shocking Deaths of the 2015-2016 Season

NCIS star Michael Weatherly, who played Anthony "Tony" DiNozzo on the hit series for 13 seasons before exiting last year, mourned his loss via a tweet on Wednesday, along with his fellow former cast members.

“What sad a day this is,” Weatherly shared with followers. “Gary Glasberg was a gentle man and gentleman loved by so many people. Send your love to his family.”

Pauley Perrette, who portrays Abby, added: "Our hearts are collectively broken. Our #NCIS show runner and boss Gary Glasberg has passed away. In shock and sadness. There are no words."

Actress Shalita Grant of NCIS: New Orleans, which Glasberg created in 2014, also expressed her condolences.

“A sad day. You touched so many lives and careers. An awesome boss and a wonderful man. May you rest in peace Gary! 🙏🙏🙏,” Grant tweeted.

Jon Cryer, who guest-starred on the hugely popular TV series, also expressed his disbelief: “Gary brought me into #NCIS. I'm stunned to hear this. So grateful that I got to work with him.”

According to Variety, a memorial service is being planned for October. 

Related: Renewed Network TV Shows 2016: Read the Full List of Returning Series (Phew!)

Got a Tip form close button
Got a tip for US?
We're All Ears for Celebrity Buzz!