Longtime writer and executive producer for NCIS, George Schenck, passed away at 82. His death occurred on Saturday at his home in Los Angeles, as confirmed by a CBS representative.
George Schenck is best known for his partnership with Frank Cardea on the critically acclaimed crime drama NCIS, which spanned the first fifteen seasons of the show. In addition to NCIS, he created Bring ‘Em Back Alive, a 1982 CBS show starring Bruce Boxleitner.
NCIS star Mark Harmon expressed his condolences upon hearing of Schenck’s passing, saying, “I am so sorry to hear the news on George.” Harmon praised the professionalism and dedication Schenck and Cardea brought to the show, remarking, “I am so grateful for the teamwork and unity that they both gave.”
Born on February 12, 1942, George Schenck followed in the footsteps of his father, Aubrey Schenck, a producer known for films like Kill a Dragon and Robinson Crusoe on Mars. George earned a degree in screenwriting from the University of Southern California and later completed a master’s degree as part of the first graduating class of USC’s Film School’s new writing program. Following his studies, George served in the U.S. Navy before launching his writing career.
In the early stages of his career, Schenck made appearances in shows such as The Wild Wild West, Branded, Hondo, and Bonanza in 1965. He also collaborated with Clint Walker on films like Don’t Worry, We’ll Think of a Title (1966) and More Dead Than Alive (1969).
After gaining experience as a freelance writer, Schenck teamed up with Frank Cardea, and together they worked on several television series, including Crazy Like a Fox, The Cosby Mysteries, and Pros and Cons. However, their most successful collaboration remained NCIS, which they joined in 2003. Over the course of the show’s first fifteen seasons, the duo co-wrote nearly 50 episodes and became co-showrunners following the death of Gary Glasberg in 2016. At the time, they issued a joint statement: “It is with heavy hearts that we assume his duties.”
Schenck retired in 2018, while Cardea continued to work on the series until 2022.
Following George’s passing, a fan account for NCIS paid tribute to his contributions on X (formerly Twitter). The post read, “Rest in peace, George. Thank you for all your work on this program and franchise over the past 15 years. My thoughts are with his family, the cast, and the crew of NCIS.”
George Schenck was preceded in death by his wife of more than 50 years, Virginia Schenck. He is survived by his two sons, Kirk and Jeff; nieces Allison and Natalie; and grandsons Aidan, Andrew, Ryan, Jordan, and Owen.
A private service will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Writer’s Guild Foundation, which supports aspiring writers in launching their careers.
