NCIS returned for the start of season 22, with the premiere episode ending with a tribute title card to George Schenck, leaving fans wondering who the man was.

NCIS season 22 has finally kicked off, but fans were left wondering about the title card tribute to George Schenck at the end of the first episode.

After a six-month wait, the police procedural returned to CBS on Monday, October 14, picking up where the 21st season finale left off.

The episode saw the welcome return of Agent Jessica Knight, played by Katrina Law, but it was the title card dedication to George Schenck that sparked curiosity among viewers.

The tribute read: “In Memory of our Dear Friend and Colleague George Schenck”, accompanied by a photo of the man himself.

So, who was George Schenck, and why did the long-running drama pay tribute to him?

George Schenck was a key contributor to NCIS, having worked as a writer, showrunner, and executive producer on the show for many years.

He joined the show in 2003 as a consulting producer and was later promoted to co-executive producer for season five.

Schenck played a crucial role in developing the plot surrounding Jennifer Shepard (Lauren Holly) and her revenge against Rene Benoit, played by Armand Assante.

He went on to executive produce the show in season nine and wrote a total of 48 episodes between seasons one and 16, contributing to over 300 episodes. His last written episode was season 16’s Tailing Angie.

Deadline earlier confirmed the sad news that George Schenck passed away at his home in Brentwood, California on August 3, 2024, at the age of 82.

Following the announcement, Mark Harmon, who played Agent Gibbs, paid tribute to Schenck and his producing partner Frank Cardea with a heartfelt statement to TV Insider.

Harmon expressed: “So sorry to hear the news on George.

“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.”

Schenck’s illustrious career was largely dedicated to NCIS, but he also made significant contributions to Western series such as Branded, Honda, Bonanza, and The Wild West.

His creative talents extended beyond television, having directed the 1972 science fiction film Superbeast and co-written the screenplay for the sci-fi thriller Futureworld alongside Mayo Simon.

NCIS season 22 continues every Monday on CBS.