NCIS creator Donald Bellisario sued the CBS network after he accused Mark Harmon of betraying him during the development of the first spin-off series.
NCIS creator Donald Bellisario took CBS to court after clashing with star Mark Harmon, who he claims backstabbed him during the creation of the first spin-off.
In April 2011, Donald filed a lawsuit against the network, alleging a breach of contract and claiming he was owed millions from NCIS: Los Angeles.
He asserted that his contract included a clause giving him a “first opportunity” to work on the first NCIS spin-off.
However, when a new creator was brought in instead, Donald charged CBS with violating his contract and implicated Mark in influencing this decision.
This legal battle followed allegations by Donald that Mark had pushed for his removal from the project amidst their ongoing feud.
Reportedly, the two had been at odds since the early days of NCIS, with Mark disapproving of Donald’s “chaotic management style.”
TV Guide noted that Mark’s 16-hour workdays were made more difficult by Donald’s micromanagement.
The network addressed concerns with Donald’s involvement, suggesting he take a step back: “Maybe you should work from a distance from it and not be quite as involved in terms of the way you work.”
Subsequently, Donald resigned as showrunner after helming four acclaimed seasons of NCIS. Although still credited as an executive producer, he hasn’t been hands-on with the series since 2007.
His departure led to an extensive legal tussle with CBS, which culminated in a confidential settlement in January 2013.
Despite the legal contention, CBS Television Studios president David Stapf expressed amicable sentiments, stating: “We’re pleased to settle this lawsuit on amicable terms and put this dispute to rest.
“Although we differed in opinion on this matter, our admiration, appreciation, and respect for Mr. Bellisario has never wavered throughout.
“We consider him one of the best creative talents of his time and a valued member of the CBS family, whose shows, both past and present, have played an important role in CBS’ success.”