gary glasberg
Producer Gary Glasberg, celebrates 'NCIS' being named he most-watched drama in the World after receiving the International TV Audience Award at Monte-Carlo Television Festival in Valencia, California, Aug. 7, 2014. Getty Images/Frazer Harrison

“NCIS” executive producer Gary Glasberg died in his sleep in Los Angeles Wednesday, at the age of 50.

“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. ” ‘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.”

Under Glasberg, “NCIS” – currently in its 14th season – has been TV’s most-watched drama series continuously for the past seven years. He is also the creator of the spinoff “NCIS: New Orleans.”

Glasberg started his career with comic books and animated series for Hanna-Barbera, Warner Bros., Disney and Nickelodeon and went on to work with drama series in the 1990s. After joining “NCIS” in 2009, he was promoted to executive producer the next year.

“Today is an overwhelmingly sad day for ‘NCIS,’ CBS and anyone who was blessed to spend time with Gary Glasberg,” said CBS Entertainment president Glenn Geller. “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.”

“We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend and colleague Gary Glasberg,” said CBS Television Studios president David Stapf, in a statement. “He epitomized the word mensch and brought kindness, integrity and class to everything he did.”

Glasberg is survived by his wife of 20 years – screenwriter Mimi Schmir – and two sons ­– Dash and Eli – along with his father and sister – Edwin and Mindy Glasberg. The family has requested privacy and a memorial service is being planned for October.

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