In Harmon's Way: NCIS Replaces Show Boss
As first
hinted at and then
ultimately scooped this Saturday by TVGuide.com's
Ausiello Report,
NCIS creator
Donald P. Bellisario is stepping down as show-runner, this on the heels of reports of on-set clashes between him and series star
Mark Harmon. Bellisario's duties will likely be assumed by coexecutive producer Chas Floyd Johnson and head writer Shane Brennan.
In a statement, CBS Paramount president David Stapf hails Bellisario, who sired
NCIS predecessor
JAG, for building not only "a top-rated show but a great producing team that provides terrific continuity for the years ahead."