Gary Glasberg, a giant in the world of television, passed away on Wednesday of unknown causes.
He was 50 years old.
CBS confirmed the news to Variety, saying Glasberg died in his sleep.
No other information is available at this time.
At the time of his death, Glasberg was serving as the showrunner of television’s most-watched program, NCIS.
He also created its spinoff, NCIS: New Orleans, which premiered in 2014 and worked as a producer on NCIS: Los Angeles.
Stunned by the news, the NCIS cast released the following statement on Twitter in response to Glasberg’s passing:
“Gary was our rock, our cheerleader, our team captain. He inspired us with his leadership, his creative instincts and keen insight.
"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 award-winning shows for seven years.
Glasberg began his TV career in 1993, penning episodes of Rugrats and Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.
In 2001, he wrote what would be the first of multiple scripts for NBC’s Crossing Jordan, on which he eventually was named a co-producer.
He then went on to serve as a co-executive producer on CBS’ The Mentalist and Shark, along with Bones on Fox.
He is survived by his wife, screenwriter Mimi Schmir, and two sons, Dash and Eli, as well as his mother and father.
Said CBS Entertainment president Glen Geller via statement:
“Today is an overwhelmingly sad day for NCIS, CBS and anyone who was blessed to spend time with Gary Glasberg. We have lost a cherished friend, gifted creative voice, respected leader and, most memorably, someone whose warmth and kindness was felt by all around him.”
CBS Television Studios boss David Stapf went on to remember Glasberg as someone who “epitomized the word mensch and brought kindness, integrity and class to everything he did.
"His remarkable talent as a writer and producer was only matched by his ability to connect with people."
NCIS and Bull star Michael Weatherly, who played Anthony "Tony" DiNozzo on the hit drama for 13 seasons before departing last year, mourned Glasberg’s loss via a tweet on Wednesday, along with his other ex-cast members.
“What sad a day this is,” Weatherly wrote. “Gary Glasberg was a gentle man and gentleman loved by so many people. Send your love to his family.”
Added Pauley Perrette, who plays Abby on NCIS:
"Our hearts are collectively broken. Our #NCIS show runner and boss Gary Glasberg has passed away. In shock and sadness. There are no words."
Jon Cryer, who guest starred on the wildly popular television series, also expressed his own disbelief over social media, writing:
“Gary brought me into #NCIS. I’m stunned to hear this. So grateful that I got to work with him.”
A memorial service is reportedly being planned for early next month.
Glasberg’ is survived by his wife, screenwriter Mimi Schmir, and two sons, Dash and Eli, along with his mother and father.
May he rest in peace.