A Farewell to Jack McCoy
After two decades of gripping courtroom drama, Sam Waterston is bidding farewell to Law & Order. The veteran actor, who has portrayed Manhattan District Attorney Jack McCoy since 1994, announced his decision to leave the long-running NBC procedural series. With over 400 episodes under his belt, Waterston will make his final appearance on Law & Order on Thursday, February 22, 2024. The beloved character of Jack McCoy will be succeeded by actor Tony Goldwyn, who will take on the role of the new District Attorney.
Waterston Reflects on His Time with the Show
In a heartfelt statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Waterston expressed his mixed feelings about leaving the show. “It’s time to move on. 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.” He reflected on the incredible success of the series and the profound impact it had on his life and career. “I’m more grateful to you than I can say,” Waterston shared with Law & Order fans, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout the years. He also credited Dick Wolf, the creator of the Law & Order franchise, for making it all possible.
A Legacy That Defined a Generation
Waterston’s portrayal of Jack McCoy became one of the most iconic characters in television history. First joining the show in 1994, Waterston was promoted to a series regular in season 5. McCoy’s evolution from Assistant District Attorney to interim DA in season 17 and ultimately to District Attorney in 2010 cemented his place as a key figure in the show’s narrative. When Law & Order was revived in 2022, Waterston reprised his role, bridging the show’s original run with its new iteration.
Over his 20 years on the show, Waterston also made appearances on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and garnered critical acclaim, earning nominations for multiple prestigious awards, including Emmys and Golden Globes. His portrayal of McCoy resonated with audiences due to its nuanced and morally complex approach to justice, solidifying him as a beloved figure on television.
What’s Next for Law & Order?
While Waterston’s departure marks the end of an era, Law & Order remains a cornerstone of NBC’s programming. The current cast includes Hugh Dancy, Camryn Manheim, Mehcad Brooks, Reid Scott, and Odelya Halevi, continuing to bring the iconic procedural to life. The Law & Order franchise, which includes spin-offs like SVU, Criminal Intent, and Organized Crime, continues to thrive, ensuring that Waterston’s legacy will remain an integral part of its enduring success.
Tony Goldwyn to Take Over as District Attorney
Stepping into the role of District Attorney is Tony Goldwyn, an actor known for his roles in Scandal and the 2023 blockbuster Oppenheimer. While details of his character are being kept under wraps, Goldwyn’s extensive experience in acting and directing makes him a strong fit for the position. He also has a long-standing relationship with the Law & Order franchise, having directed an episode of the show in 2006.
Reflecting on a Storied Career
As Waterston exits the show, fans are left to reflect on the many years that he helped define Law & Order. His portrayal of Jack McCoy, which became synonymous with the show itself, has left an indelible mark on the television landscape. While his departure brings mixed emotions for viewers, it’s clear that Waterston’s legacy will remain a defining part of the show’s history. With Goldwyn stepping in, the future of Law & Order remains bright, but the contributions of Sam Waterston will be remembered for years to come.
