The longest-running cast member of NBC’s Law & Order is exiting the series. Sam Waterston, who stars as District Attorney Jack McCoy, will be leaving the series after 400+ episodes.
Waterson joined the primetime legal drama in 1994 and has earned Emmy, Screen Actors Guild, and Golden Globe nominations during his 20-year run. In 1999, he won the SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series.
Waterson released the following statement acknowledging his departure:
“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.”
Waterston’s final episode will air on February 22, 2024.
In addition to Waterston, season 23 stars Hugh Dancy, Camryn Manheim, Odelya Halevi, Mehcad Brooks, and Reid Scott. Tony Goldwyn is joining the cast as the new district attorney.
