‘NCIS’ Season 14 Cast And Michael Weatherly React To Showrunner’s Unexpected Death: ‘We Are In Shock’

It’s a time of mourning for the “NCIS” cast and crew. The CBS series’ showrunner and executive producer, Gary Glasberg, died in Los Angeles in his sleep, according to multiple reports. The 50-year-old creative genius not only served as the showrunner, writer and executive producer of TV’s most watched drama, but he also launched “NCIS’” third spin-off, “NCIS: New Orleans,” in 2013 with the help of Mark Harmon, the actor who plays Gibbs.

Glasberg’s unexpected death has, understandably, shocked those closest to him. The cause of death is right now unknown.

“Gary was our rock, our cheerleader, our team captain. He inspired us with his leadership, his creative instincts and keen insight,” the ‘NCIS’ cast and crew 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.”

The “NCIS” Season 14 cast took to Twitter to express their condolence to Glasberg’s family and sadness at his abrupt departure. Michael Weatherly, who played NCIS Agent Anthony “Tony” DiNozzo till Season 13, said, “What a sad day this is. Gary Glasberg was a gentle man and gentleman loved by so many people. Send your love to his family.”

Emily Wickersham, who played Ellie Bishop, tweeted, “We are in shock and struck w great sadness at the loss our leader Gary Glasberg here at NCIS. Today we celebrate you Gary w all our love.”

Original “NCIS” cast member, Pauley Perrette, who plays forensic specialist Abby on the series, tweeted, “Our hearts are collectively broken. Our #NCIS show runner and boss Gary Glasberg has passed away. In shock and sadness. There are no words.”

Glasberg is survived by his wife of 20 years, Mimi Schmir, and two boys Dash and Eli, according to TVLine.

“NCIS” Season 14 airs on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EDT on CBS.