George Schenck, the acclaimed writer, producer, and co-showrunner of the long-running CBS drama NCIS, passed away on Saturday at the age of 82. His remarkable 40-year creative partnership with Frank Cardea left an indelible mark on the television landscape, defining the show’s enduring success for over 15 seasons.
Hailing from a family steeped in Hollywood history, Schenck’s path to television greatness was paved with an impressive array of early writing credits. After graduating from the University of Southern California with a degree in screenwriting, he served in the U.S. Navy and went on to contribute to classic Western and adventure series like “The Wild Wild West,” “Branded,” “Hondo,” and “Bonanza.”
In the 1970s, Schenck’s career took an exciting turn when he teamed up with his longtime creative partner, Frank Cardea. Together, they co-wrote the 1974 CBS telefilm “The Phantom of Hollywood” and the 1976 sequel to the Michael Crichton hit “Westworld,” titled “Futureworld.” This dynamic duo’s collaborations would only continue to grow, as they went on to create the CBS adventure series “Bring ‘Em Back Alive” and the crime drama “Crazy Like a Fox.”
In 2003, Schenck and Cardea’s partnership found its most enduring success with the launch of NCIS. Starting with the show’s inaugural season, the pair wrote nearly 50 episodes, cementing their place as the driving creative force behind the procedural juggernaut. Their dedication and expertise were further recognized in 2016 when they were elevated to the role of co-showrunners following the sudden passing of Gary Glasberg.
Schenck’s impact on NCIS cannot be overstated. As Mark Harmon, the show’s star and producer, noted, “The professionalism and tenacity of George and Frank changed the face of the show. I’m so appreciative of the team and teamwork they both represented.” After retiring in 2018, Schenck’s legacy continued to be felt through Cardea’s ongoing involvement with the series until 2022.
George Schenck’s passing marks the end of an era for NCIS and the television industry as a whole. His unwavering dedication, creative brilliance, and enduring partnership with Frank Cardea have left an indelible mark on the shows and characters that have captivated audiences for over 15 seasons. As we bid farewell to this legendary writer, we can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the countless hours of entertainment and the enduring impact he has had on the world of television.
