Creator is leaving ‘NCIS’
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Neither Donald P. Bellisario nor Mark Harmon was commenting Monday about the news that Bellisario would be stepping down as executive producer of the CBS series he created four years ago, “NCIS.”
CBS Paramount Network Television confirmed over the weekend that Bellisario would be leaving to develop two projects that are part of his overall development deal with the studio. A successor to Bellisario was not immediately named.
CBS officials downplayed rumors of conflict between the producer and star, noting that it is not unusual for a show runner to depart after a lengthy run.
The series, about a naval criminal investigative team that operates outside the military chain of command, has developed a loyal audience that hasn’t defected over the years to its formidable competitor in the same Tuesday time slot, Fox’s “American Idol.”
“NCIS” consistently ranks No. 2 for the night, and CBS is expected to renew it for a fifth season next week.
Lynn Smith
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