More than a year and a half after it was filed, vet TV producer Don Bellisario and CBS TV Studios have jointly settled a lawsuit regarding “NCIS: Los Angeles.”
Terms of the settlement were not disclosed.
Lawsuit claimed that CBS TV Studios owed Bellisario a cut of the popular series since Bellisario created “NCIS,” which is a spinoff of another Bellisario-produced skein, “JAG.” Suit focused, specifically, on what qualified as a “spinoff” from “NCIS,” and the terms of Bellisario’s contract.
“We’re pleased to settle this lawsuit on amicable terms and put this dispute to rest,” said David Stapf, prexy of CBS Television Studios. “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.”
Bellisario added, “I am also pleased that we were able to amicably resolve the lawsuit short of a trial. I am gratified that CBS has recognized my contributions in creating ‘JAG’ and ‘NCIS.'”
