NCIS showrunner Gary Glasberg dies at 50: Michael Weatherly, Pauley Perrette and other actors pay tribute

Gary Glasberg, the longtime showrunner of NCIS and creator of spinoff NCIS: New Orleans died in his sleep on Wednesday (28 September) in Los Angeles, according to CBS. Glasberg was 50 years old.

The NCIS cast and crew paid tribute to the late showrunner via a Twitter post, which read, "Gary was our rock, our cheerleader, our team captain. He inspired us with his leadership, his creative instincts and keen insight. 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."

Several NCIS actors also bid goodbye to the late showrunner on social media. Michael Weatherly, who played Tony Dinozzo on the show for 13 seasons tweeted, "What sad a day this is. Gary Glasberg was a gentle man and gentleman loved by so many people. Send your love to his family."

Pauley Perrette, who plays Abby Sciuto, said that she was shocked and sad upon hearing the news. She tweeted, "Our hearts are collectively broken. Our #NCIS show runner and boss Gary Glasberg has passed away. In shock and sadness. There are no words."

Wilmer Valderrama, who recently joined the CBS series also paid tribute to Glasberg and wrote, "#NCIS has lost an incredible man & leader, Gary Glasberg I'm grateful 4 ur trust & love, till we meet again. We'll make you proud #RIP."

NCIS: New Orleans actress Shalita Grant said, "A sad day. You touched so many lives and careers. An awesome boss and a wonderful man. May you rest in peace Gary!" Her NCIS: New Orleans co-star, Rob Kerkovich, also paid tribute to the late showrunner and wrote, "Incredibly sad day for the NCIS and NCISNOLA family. He literally changed the course of my life, and was a true joy to be around. RIP Gary."

President of CBS Entertainment Glenn Geller said in a statement, "Today is an overwhelmingly sad day for NCIS, CBS and anyone who was blessed to spend time with Gary Glasberg. 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."