NCIS Showrunner Gary Glasberg Dead at 50

NCIS executive producer and showrunner Gary Glasberg has died. He was 50.

Glasberg, who also created the NCIS spin-off NCIS: New Orleans, died Wednesday in his sleep in Los Angeles, according to reports. The cause of death was not immediately released. A native of New York City, Glasberg acted as an executive producer on shows including Bones, Crossing Jordan and The Mentalist. He joined NCIS in 2009 as an executive producer and writer, and was promoted to showrunner in 2011.

"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."

Remember other celebs we've lost this year

Glasberg is survived by his wife of 20 years, TV producer and screenwriter Mimi Schmir, as well as their two sons, Dash and Eli.

"Today is an overwhelmingly sad day for NCIS, CBS and anyone who was blessed to spend time with Gary Glasberg," CBS Entertainment President Glenn Geller said in a statement. "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. Our heartfelt thoughts and sympathies go out to his wife, Mimi, his two sons and all his family and friends."

Added CBS Television Studios President David Stapf: "We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend and colleague Gary Glasberg. He epitomized the word mensch and brought kindness, integrity and class to everything he did. His remarkable talent as a writer and producer was only matched by his ability to connect with people. Gary was a beloved member of our family and we are so honored that he called CBS his home for so many years. Our hearts go out to his wife, Mimi, two sons, his entire family and all those who loved him."

A memorial service is being planned for later in October.

(Full disclosure: TVGuide.com is owned by CBS.)