Is Sam Waterston Leaving Law & Order After 20 Seasons? Why is Sam Waterston Leaving Law & Order?
by Alaguvelan M
Updated Feb 03, 2024
Is Sam Waterston Leaving Law & Order After 20 Seasons?
Yes, in a surprising turn of events, Sam Waterston, known for his role as Manhattan District Attorney Jack McCoy on Law & Order since 1994, is bidding farewell to the long-running show.
Having been a part of the series for an impressive 20 seasons, Waterston's last episode is set to air on February 22. The departure of the 83-year-old actor marks the end of an era, leaving fans wondering about the future of the iconic character and the impact of this significant change.
The transition comes as Tony Goldwyn steps into the shoes of the new District Attorney, taking on the challenge of following in Waterston's footsteps. Goldwyn, recognized for his role in Scandal, previously directed an episode in 2006, adding an interesting dynamic to his new on-screen role.
While details about how Goldwyn's character will be introduced are kept under wraps, this shift in leadership promises a fresh perspective for Law & Order enthusiasts.
Sam Waterston's legacy as Jack McCoy is deeply ingrained in Law & Order's history, having played a pivotal role for almost three decades. His departure raises questions about the show's future trajectory and how the introduction of a new District Attorney will be received by the dedicated fan base.
As Law & Order continues to evolve, the lasting impact of Waterston's contribution and the anticipation surrounding Goldwyn's arrival make this transition a significant moment in the show's enduring legacy.
Who is Sam Waterston?
Samuel Atkinson Waterston, born on November 15, 1940, is a highly respected American actor known for his outstanding work in theater, television, and film. With a career spanning over five decades, Waterston has received prestigious awards, including a Primetime Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award.
He's been nominated for an Academy Award and a Tony Award, showcasing his versatility on both stage and screen. Starting in theater, Waterston graced the New York stage with Shakespearean performances and earned a Tony Award nomination for his portrayal of Abraham Lincoln in "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" (1993).
In film, he gained acclaim for roles in "The Great Gatsby" (1974) and "The Killing Fields" (1984), earning an Academy Award nomination. However, Waterston became a household name through his role as Jack McCoy in the NBC series "Law & Order" (1994–2010, 2022–). His depiction of the Manhattan District Attorney brought critical praise and accolades, solidifying his place in the entertainment industry.
Beyond his acting prowess, Waterston is recognized for his humanitarian work, serving as a board member of Oceana and receiving the Goodermote Humanitarian Award for supporting refugees.
He is also known for his political involvement, endorsing candidates like Barack Obama, and his activism, as seen in his arrest during a climate change protest in 2019. Sam Waterston is not only a seasoned actor but also a dedicated advocate for social causes.
Why is Sam Waterston Leaving Law & Order?
After an impressive 20 seasons portraying Manhattan District Attorney Jack McCoy on NBC's Law & Order, veteran actor Sam Waterston is bidding farewell. The 83-year-old actor will make his departure in the 20th season, set to premiere on February 22.
While Sam's character, Jack McCoy, has been a cornerstone of the series since 1994, this departure opens the door for Tony Goldwyn, known for his role in Scandal, to take on the mantle of the new District Attorney.
Sam Waterston's decision to leave Law & Order marks a significant moment in the show's history, and fans are eager to discover how the series will handle this transition. The enduring success of Law & Order, which premiered in 1990, is attributed to its exceptional cast and has become a cultural phenomenon with multiple spinoffs. The upcoming season, post the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike, reaffirms the show's commitment to its audience.
Is Sam Waterston to Leaving Law & Order After 20 Seasons - FAQs
Sam Waterston is departing to explore new opportunities and challenges after a long and successful tenure as Jack McCoy.
Scandal alum Tony Goldwyn is set to step into the role of District Attorney, taking over from Sam Waterston.
Sam Waterston has portrayed Manhattan District Attorney Jack McCoy since 1994, spanning over 20 seasons and more than 400 episodes.
Sam Waterston received a Screen Actors Guild Award and earned multiple Emmy and Golden Globe Award nominations for his portrayal of Jack McCoy.
Sam Waterston's final episode as Jack McCoy is scheduled to premiere on February 22, halfway into the 20th season of Law & Order.