NCIS’ Legend Dead at 82: Mark Harmon Mourns Death of George Schenck

Mark Harmon is paying tribute to former NCIS showrunner George Schenck, who passed away on August 3 at the age of 82. Schenck, together with his longtime writing partner Frank Cardea, first joined the series in its debut season. The duo eventually rose to become executive producers and co-showrunners in Season 14, a role Schenck held until his retirement in 2018. Harmon, who played Leroy Jethro Gibbs for 19 seasons, commended their “professionalism and tenacity,” noting that they “reshaped the show.”

Today, Harmon serves as both narrator and executive producer of the upcoming spinoff NCIS: Origins, set to premiere on October 14 with Austin Stowell starring as a young Gibbs. The project was initially inspired by Harmon’s son, Sean Harmon—who once portrayed young Gibbs himself—and who also holds an executive producer role. Harmon expressed that he’s glad to support the new cast while stepping back from leading the spotlight.