George Schenck, ‘NCIS’ Showrunner, Dies at 82

George Schenck, a TV writer, producer and showrunner on CBS’ police procedural “NCIS,” died at his home in Brentwood, Calif., on Aug. 3. He was 82.

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Born on February 12, 1942, Schenck graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in screenwriting and earned a graduate degree in the first class of the Film School’s new writers’ program. After attending school, he served in the U.S. Navy. His father, Aubrey Schenck, was an independent producer along with his great uncles, Nicholas and Joseph Schenck, who ran MGM and 20th Century Fox.

In addition to writing and producing many episodes of “NCIS,” Schenck wrote indie movies and collaborated with his writing and producing partner Frank Cardea on shows like “Crazy Like a Fox,” “Bring ’em Back” and “Pros and Cons.” Schenck joined the “NCIS” writing staff in its first season. He became an executive producer in Season 9, and he and Cardea were named co-showrunners after the death of Gary Glasberg in 2016. Schenck retired in 2018 after writing more than 40 episodes of “NCIS.”

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“So sorry to hear the news on George,” said “NCIS” star and producer Mark Harmon in a statement. “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 was predeceased by his wife Virginia, who died last year. He is survived by their children, Kirk and Jeff; his daughters-in-law Allison and Natalie; and grandchildren Aidan, Andrew, Ryan, Jordan and Owen.

A private memorial service will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Writers Guild Foundation in Schenck’s memory.

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