A major Law & Order star will soon be leaving the show after 20 years and over 400 episodes in the franchise. The procedural drama has seen a revolving door of cast members, though plenty of familiar faces still exist across all running series. While the majority of the main show’s revival has plenty of new faces, some included returnees to the franchise.
Now, The Hollywood Reporter confirms Sam Waterson will be leaving his role as Manhattan District Attorney Jack McCoy during Law & Order season 23. His final episode airs on February 22, marking an end to his time on the show since season 5. Waterson offered a statement regarding his departure, which can be read below:
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. 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 comeback, is all thanks to you and 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.
Sam Waterson’s Jack McCoy Is A Classic Law & Order Character
In addition to Waterson stepping off the screen, Tony Goldwyn will be entering the show as a currently unnamed character, taking on the role of Manhattan DA. McCoy is one of the most-appearing characters in the original show, having appeared in over 400 episodes since his debut. Because of this, it will take some getting used to as a new character steps into his role on the show.
McCoy helped shape Law & Order’s revival, as his familiarity as a key part of the franchise helped continue its success. His engaging intellectualism and willingness to be confrontational make him an integral part of the series. With his absence, new characters like Vincent Riley (Reed Scott) and Jalen Shaw (Mehcad Brooks) will have to step up as even more prominent figures for the show.
Since Goldwyn will be stepping in as the new DA on the series, the structure of the show is unlikely to change in McCoy’s absence. However, it’s clear that, if Law & Order season 24 comes to fruition in the future, it won’t feel the same without the series’ most familiar face. With his final episode just a few weeks away, it remains to be seen how the last hour of his time in the show will play out.
