As NCIS: Los Angeles kicked off its 13th season on CBS, the crime-fighting drama paused to honor someone whose influence was felt far beyond what viewers see on screen. In a touching tribute during the season premiere, longtime set decorator Michele Poulik was remembered with heartfelt words:
“In loving memory of Michele Poulik, whose smile, presence, and laughter lit up every day.”
It was a quiet yet powerful moment that underscored Poulik’s deep impact on the cast, crew, and visual storytelling of the series.
A Creative Force Behind the Scenes
Michele Poulik was no stranger to the industry. A native of Detroit and a visionary in set design, she joined NCIS: Los Angeles at its inception in 2009 and stayed with the show through nearly 280 episodes—shaping the visual world of the OSP team with her impeccable eye for detail. Her contributions went well beyond the set; her passion and personality became part of the show’s heartbeat.
“Michele was a force of nature,” shared showrunner R. Scott Gemmill. “She championed the underdog, spoke her mind with fearless honesty, and infused every day with laughter—even if it was at her own expense.”
A Storied Career in Hollywood
Before joining the NCIS family, Poulik had already built an impressive résumé. She began her film career by writing and producing the indie movie Singing Birds, and went on to work on fan-favorite projects like Army of Darkness, Hard Target, and Joe Somebody. Her artistry earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination for the acclaimed miniseries From the Earth to the Moon in 1998.
She also left her mark on gritty television dramas, serving as the original set decorator for The Shield, long before becoming a fixture in the NCIS: LA universe.
A Lasting Legacy
Off set, Poulik was a proud member of the Set Decorators Society of America (SDSA), where she held roles on the Board of Directors and contributed to key industry committees. She was known not only for her design talent but also for her unwavering support of fellow creatives.
Michele Poulik passed away on August 2, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer. She died in her Los Angeles home, surrounded by love. She is survived by her sister Janet and an extended family of friends and colleagues who continue to cherish her memory.
The NCIS: Los Angeles tribute was more than a formality—it was a heartfelt farewell to a woman who helped build the world of one of TV’s most enduring procedurals. And in the legacy of every meticulously crafted scene she touched, Michele Poulik’s spirit lives on.
