Mark Harmon Shares Mournful Tribute to NCIS Colleague

Mark Harmon Shares Mournful Tribute to NCIS Colleague

As a lifelong cinema enthusiast who’s seen more episodes of NCIS than I can count, it’s hard not to feel a deep sense of loss when hearing about George Schenck’s passing. This man wasn’t just a writer or a producer; he was an integral part of the NCIS family for two decades, shaping the show we know and love today.


While fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming prequel series NCIS: Origins, they are instead greeted with disheartening news. Sadly, George Schenck, a crucial figure in the creation of NCIS for two decades, passed away on Saturday. Over the weekend, CBS confirmed this tragic news, leaving the NCIS team mourning his loss ever since. Mark Harmon, who has collaborated with Schenck on NCIS since 2003, recently expressed a touching tribute to his late colleague. In remembrance of their long-lasting bond, here is what Harmon shared in his statement:

“I’m truly saddened by the news regarding George. The combined dedication and perseverance of George and Frank truly transformed our show. I can’t help but express my deep gratitude for their professionalism, as well as the exceptional camaraderie they exemplified within our team.”

As reported by CBS, a beloved television personality has tragically passed away at his Brentwood, Los Angeles residence. The sorrow deepens upon learning that his wife Virginia had passed away a year prior, in March 2023. George and Virginia leave behind their sons Kirk and Jeff, as well as their daughters-in-law Allison and Natalie. Their family also includes grandchildren Ryan, Andrew, Aidan, Owen, and Jordan.

George Schenck’s Legacy Will Live on for Many Generations

Mark Harmon Shares Mournful Tribute to NCIS ColleagueMark Harmon Shares Mournful Tribute to NCIS ColleagueMark Harmon Shares Mournful Tribute to NCIS ColleagueMark Harmon Shares Mournful Tribute to NCIS Colleague

George Schenck is primarily known for his work on NCIS, but since the 1980s, he’s made a substantial mark on various television shows beyond that. Before NCIS, Schenck ran Schenck/Cardea Productions, a production company linked with Columbia Pictures during the 1980s. Other notable works of his include Futureworld (which received a Hugo Award for Best Drama Presentation), Crazy Like a Fox, and Bring ‘Em Back Alive, where he functioned both as a writer and producer.

Born on February 12, 1942, Schenck has always been drawn to Hollywood. Armed with a screenwriting degree from USC, he kicked off his illustrious career in the industry with the hit Western TV series, “The Wild Wild West,” during the 1960s. Later, he joined the creative crew of NCIS and formed a writing partnership with Frank Cardea. Together, they ascended to the role of showrunners for Season 9, overseeing the entire production.

Although Schenck began working on NCIS in 2003, he penned just 43 episodes for the popular series throughout its run. Among these are episodes like “Vanished” (Season 2, Episode 3), “Heart Break” (Season 2, Episode 8), and “No Good Deed” (Season 12, Episode 20). Given NCIS’s status as one of the most successful TV shows of the 21st century, Schenck’s dedication to the show is evident in its success. While his writing contributions are noteworthy, it’s his roles as a producer and showrunner that demonstrate his passion for ensuring the series’ overall quality.

As a film enthusiast, I was deeply saddened by the passing of the esteemed writer and showrunner, Schenck. Mark Harmon paid a heartfelt tribute to him, but each one of us who knew him will mourn this loss in our own unique way. Regardless, Schenck’s impactful legacy as an influential figure in the world of television will continue to resonate within the hearts of his devoted fans and colleagues.

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2024-08-06 23:31