What Happened to Jeffrey Donovan on Law and Order? Why Did Jeffrey Donovan Leave Law and Order?
by Jayasree D
Updated Jan 19, 2024
What Happened to Jeffrey Donovan on Law And Order?
Jeffrey Donovan left "Law & Order" due to creative differences. The departure of the actor, who portrayed Detective Cosgrove in the show's previous seasons, surprised fans as it wasn't addressed until over 15 minutes into the 23rd season's premiere.
Donovan's exit was first reported in November, with no direct comments from either him or NBC. In the episode, Detective Jalen Shaw's new partner, Detective Vincent Riley, eventually asks about Cosgrove, providing some explanation.
However, fans expressed dissatisfaction on social media, finding the character's conclusion underwhelming. The departure generated mixed reactions, with some viewers missing Cosgrove but others content with the introduction of Riley. The actor's exit marked a change in the show, leaving fans with various emotions and questions about the future direction of "Law & Order."
Who is Jeffrey Donovan?
Jeffrey Donovan is an American actor known for his roles in TV shows and movies. He gained prominence as Michael Westen in the TV series "Burn Notice" and appeared in films such as "Hitch," "Changeling," and "Sicario: Day of the Soldado." Donovan played Robert F. Kennedy in Clint Eastwood's "J. Edgar" (2011) and John F. Kennedy in Rob Reiner's "LBJ" (2016).
Born in Amesbury, Massachusetts, Donovan attended Bridgewater State College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, majoring in drama. He later earned his Master of Fine Arts from New York University.
In addition to his acting career, Donovan has showcased his martial arts skills, holding black belts in Shotokan karate, studying aikido and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He is married to Michelle Woods, and the couple has three children. Donovan actively supports charitable causes, including Life Rolls On for people with spinal cord injuries.
Full Name
Jeffrey Donovan
Date of Birth
May 11, 1968
Age
55
Place of Birth
Amesbury, Massachusetts, U.S.
Education
- Bridgewater State University
- University of Massachusetts, Amherst (BA)
- New York University (MFA)
Occupation
Actor
Years Active
1995–present
Spouse
Michelle Woods (married in 2012)
Children
3
Jeffrey Donovan Age
Jeffrey Donovan is currently 55 years old. Born on May 11, 1968, in Amesbury, Massachusetts, he has been active in the entertainment industry since 1995. Donovan pursued his education at Bridgewater State University and the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in drama. He furthered his studies at New York University, obtaining a Master of Fine Arts.
Known for his roles in TV shows like "Burn Notice" and various films, Donovan married Michelle Woods in 2012, and they have three children. Currently, he continues his career in acting, showcasing versatility and contributing to both television and film.
Jeffrey Donovan's Early Life
Jeffrey Donovan was born in Amesbury, Massachusetts. He grew up as the middle child in a family of three boys, with his older brother Michael and younger brother Sean. Raised by his mother, Nancy Matthews, who struggled as a single parent on welfare after their father left, the family moved multiple times before settling in Amesbury.
At Amesbury High School, Donovan found his passion for acting with the help of a supportive teacher who encouraged him to start a drama club. Through a private scholarship, he participated in a summer program that kickstarted his acting career.
Donovan later attended Bridgewater State College before transferring to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in drama. His journey from a challenging upbringing to a successful acting career highlights his resilience and dedication to his craft.
Jeffrey Donovan Career
Jeffrey Donovan has had a successful career as an American actor. Born on May 11, 1968, in Amesbury, Massachusetts, Donovan began his journey in the entertainment industry in 1995.
He gained recognition for his lead role as Michael Westen in the television series "Burn Notice," which ran from 2007 to 2013. Donovan also showcased his versatility in various films such as "Hitch," "Changeling," and "Sicario: Day of the Soldado."
His career spans both television and theater, with notable performances in TV shows like "Fargo" and "Law & Order." Donovan made his directorial debut with an episode of "Burn Notice" and directed a prequel film for the series.
Besides acting, he has actively participated in stage productions, including notable roles in plays like "Hamlet" and "A View from the Bridge." Donovan's career reflects his dedication to the arts and his ability to excel in diverse roles.
Jeffrey Donovan Family
Jeffrey Donovan's family is filled with love and diverse interests. Married to model and actress Michelle Woods since 2012, the couple shares a beautiful family. They welcomed their first child, a daughter named Claire, in the same year as their marriage. Following that, their son Lucas was born in 2014, adding joy to their family. In 2017, Jeffrey and Michelle celebrated the arrival of their third child, another daughter.
Donovan, a devoted Boston Red Sox fan since childhood, has also had the honor of throwing ceremonial first pitches at Fenway Park. Beyond his successful acting career, Donovan's family life reflects happiness, and his involvement in martial arts adds a unique dimension to their shared interests.
Why Did Jeffrey Donovan Leave Law and Order?
Jeffrey Donovan left "Law & Order" because of creative disagreements. News about his departure came out in November, surprising fans as the show didn't address it until well into the 23rd season.
Donovan, who played Detective Cosgrove, hasn't commented, and NBC hasn't explained either. This lack of information left fans confused and sparked discussions on social media.
In the episode, where his absence is finally touched upon, Detective Jalen Shaw's new partner, Detective Vincent Riley, asks about Cosgrove. However, some viewers weren't satisfied with the vague explanation.
The exit has stirred mixed feelings among fans, with some missing Cosgrove and others liking the introduction of Riley. It's now making fans wonder how the show will continue without Donovan's character.
What Happened to Jeffrey Donovan On Law And Order-FAQs
Jeffrey Donovan left due to creative differences, leading to his surprise departure, unaddressed until well into the 23rd season.
Donovan's departure was first reported in November, with no direct comments from him or NBC about the reasons behind it.
Fans expressed confusion and dissatisfaction on social media, finding the character's conclusion underwhelming and generating mixed reactions.
In the episode, Detective Jalen Shaw's new partner, Detective Vincent Riley, eventually asks about Cosgrove, providing some explanation for the character's departure.
As of the available information, Jeffrey Donovan has not commented directly on his departure from "Law & Order," and NBC has not provided an explanation either.