Universal Television and Wolf Entertainment’s most iconic TV franchise is losing its longest-serving actor after 20 seasons. Sam Waterston, an acclaimed American actor is parting ways with Law & Order. Waterson first joined the show in 1994 during its fourth season as the assistant district attorney Jack McCoy. After the original show’s finale in 2010, Waterston came back to reprise his role in the 2022 revival. Overall, Waterson has appeared in over 400 episodes of Law & Order.
Waterson’s role as Jack McCoy had captivated Law and Order’s audience, and unsurprisingly led him to win numerous awards, nominations, and recognition. Some of those accomplishments included multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. As well as a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series in 1999.
Following the announcement of his departure, Waterson shared a statement directed to the show’s audience, thanking them for their support and wishing everyone well.
“Greetings, you wonderful people. It’s a pleasure to talk directly like this to the backbone of Law & Order’s absolutely amazing audience. The time has come for me to move on and take Jack McCoy with me. There’s sadness in leaving, but I’m just too curious about what’s next,” wrote Waterson.
“An actor doesn’t want to let himself get too comfortable. I’m more grateful to you than I can say. L&O’s continuing and amazing long run, along with its astounding come-back, is all thanks to you and to Dick Wolf, but for whose vision, patience, perseverance, and unique combination of creative and business talents, none of this would have happened. I feel very blessed. I hope to see you all on the flip side,” he concluded.
Waterson’s final episode is set to air on February 22, 2024, where Tony Goldwyn will step in as Law & Order’s new DA. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Goldwyn has made previous appearances in the original run of Law & Order, including directing an episode in 2006. Additionally, Goldwyn has had prominent performances on Disney’s Tarzan, Scandal, and more recently, the 2023 summer blockbuster hit Oppenheimer.
Law & Order fans can check out the next episode on Thursdays at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT on NBC.
