NCIS was forced to do something on Tuesday night that it never would have imagined having to do just a few days ago:
Pay tribute to Gary Glasberg.
The long-time showrunner of broadcast television’s most-watch show died at the age of 50 last week, taking those who knew him and worked with him by complete surprise.
At the end of NCIS Season 14 Episode 3 yesterday, NCIS shared the above photo with its millions and millions of viewers.
It’s a title card that reads "In loving memory of Gary Glasberg," and it includes the statement that was released by CBS following the announcement of his death.
That statement reads as follows:
"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 had been at the helm of NCIS since 2011, having joined the drama as a co-executive producer in 2009.
He also created the spinoff NCIS: New Orleans in 2014 and served as executive producer on that series as well.
He passed away suddenly in his sleep last Wednesday, with much of the television universe mourning his loss, especially the cast he had so closely worked with for the past seven years.
"Our hearts are collectively broken," NCIS star Pauley Perrette Tweeted, adding:
"Our NCIS show runner and boss Gary Glasberg has passed away. In shock and sadness. There are no words."
Michael Weatherly, who left the show after 13 seasons last year, but who remains part of the CBS family as the lead on Bull, wrote online:
"What sad a day this is. Gary Glasberg was a gentle man and gentleman loved by so many people. Send your love to his family."
Glasberg is survived by his wife, screenwriter Mimi Schmir; and also his two sons, Dash and Eli, as well as his mother and father.
Said CBS Entertainment president Glen Geller via statement at the time she learned of Glasberg’s death:
"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."
And, finally, CBS Television Studios boss David Stapf made a point to remember Glasberg as someone who “epitomized the word mensch and brought kindness, integrity and class to everything he did.
He concluded:
"His remarkable talent as a writer and producer was only matched by his ability to connect with people."
We send our thoughts and prayers to Glasberg’s friends, family members and loved ones.