Why Did Jerry Orbach Leave Law and Order? How Did Jerry Orbach Die?
by Mathelene
Updated May 29, 2023
Who is Jerry Orbach?
Jerry Orbach was an American actor and singer, born on October 20, 1935, in the Bronx, New York City. He had a prolific career in both stage and screen, with notable achievements in theater, film, and television. Orbach began his acting career in the 1950s, performing in Off-Broadway and Broadway productions.
He gained recognition for his roles in musicals such as "The Fantasticks" and "Promises, Promises," for which he earned a Tony Award nomination. Orbach's rich baritone voice and charismatic stage presence made him a respected figure in the theater community.
In the realm of film, Orbach appeared in numerous movies throughout his career. Some of his notable film credits include "Prince of the City" (1981), "Dirty Dancing" (1987), and "Crimes and Misdemeanors" (1989). However, it was his role as Detective Lennie Briscoe on the television series "Law & Order" that brought him widespread fame and recognition. Orbach portrayed the wise and seasoned detective for 12 seasons, from 1992 until 2004, becoming one of the show's most beloved characters.
Jerry Orbach's talent was not limited to acting. He was also a skilled singer and recorded several albums throughout his career. He released a self-titled album in 1962 and later collaborated with renowned composer and lyricist Rupert Holmes on the albums "Off Broadway" (1982) and "Jerry Orbach: Remembering Mr. Broadway" (2000). Tragically, Jerry Orbach was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which eventually led to his departure from "Law & Order" in 2004.
He passed away on December 28, 2004, at the age of 69, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. Jerry Orbach's contributions to the performing arts, his memorable performances on stage and screen, and his iconic portrayal of Detective Lennie Briscoe continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike. His talent, charisma, and distinctive voice made him a beloved figure in the entertainment world, and his impact on the industry will not be forgotten.
Why did Jerry Orbach Leave Law and Order?
Jerry Orbach, known for his role as Detective Lennie Briscoe on the television series "Law & Order," left the show primarily due to health reasons. After appearing on the show for 12 seasons, Orbach's health began to deteriorate, and he was experiencing fatigue and other symptoms. It was later revealed that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Orbach made the decision to leave "Law & Order" in order to focus on his health and undergo treatment for his condition. He wanted to prioritize his well-being and take the necessary steps to address his health issues. Sadly, Jerry Orbach passed away on December 28, 2004, at the age of 69, after a battle with prostate cancer.
His departure from the show marked the end of an era for "Law & Order" fans, as Orbach's character had become a beloved and iconic part of the series. However, his legacy as Detective Lennie Briscoe continues to live on in the hearts of fans and through his memorable performances on the show.
How Did Jerry Orbach Die?
In January 1994, Jerry Orbach, who was in the early stages of his tenure on "Law & Order," received a diagnosis of prostate cancer. He initially underwent radiation therapy as a treatment. However, by December 1994, it was discovered that the cancer had returned and spread to other parts of his body.
In order to manage cancer's progression, Orbach began hormone therapy, which he continued for the following decade while continuing to portray Detective Lennie Briscoe on "Law & Order." Despite his health challenges, he remained committed to his work and continued to entertain audiences with his memorable performances on the show.
After concluding his time on "Law & Order" at the end of the 2003-2004 season, Orbach underwent chemotherapy as part of his cancer treatment. Tragically, despite his efforts and medical interventions, he ultimately succumbed to the illness on December 28, 2004. He passed away at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City at the age of 69.
Orbach's battle with cancer remained private throughout much of his decade-long illness, with the public only becoming aware of his condition in the weeks leading up to his death. Despite his declining health, Orbach had been signed to continue his role as Lennie Briscoe on the spin-off series "Law & Order: Trial by Jury." However, he was only featured in the first two episodes of the series, both of which aired posthumously.
Jerry Orbach's untimely passing marked the end of a remarkable career, leaving a void in the entertainment industry and saddening fans who had come to admire his talent and his portrayal of the beloved character Detective Lennie Briscoe.
Jerry Orbach Funeral
Jerry Orbach was interred at Trinity Church Cemetery and Mausoleum in upper Manhattan. A gathering was held at the Richard Rodgers Theater to honor and celebrate Orbach's life and career. The event took place on the stage where he had portrayed Billy Flynn in the original production of "Chicago" and where he had met his wife, Elaine, who joined the cast as a standby in 1976.
The ceremony brought together Orbach's immediate family and a host of "Law & Order" stars, including Chris Noth, S. Epatha Merkerson, B.D. Wong, Richard Belzer, and Bebe Neuwirth. His Broadway colleagues, such as Angela Lansbury, Jane Alexander, Karen Ziemba, Gerald Schoenfeld, and producer Martin Richards, also attended.
However, the attendees were outnumbered by the multitude of New Yorkers who saw Orbach as one of their own, a Bronx-born man who came to represent the spirit of the city to television audiences. The ceremony highlighted Orbach's versatility, both as a skilled actor and a regular guy who excelled at activities like pinochle, poker, and pool. He was equally comfortable socializing with a Teamster as he was captivating audiences on center stage with his charismatic dancing.
Many of the speakers acknowledged that the qualities associated with Orbach's iconic character, Lennie Briscoe, such as a witty exterior hiding a compassionate heart, were reflections of Orbach's own persona. The event served as a touching tribute to a man who had left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and had endeared himself to people from all walks of life.
How was Jerry Orbach Written Out of Law and Order?
Jerry Orbach's character, Detective Lennie Briscoe, was written out of "Law & Order" in the show's 14th season. The decision to write out the character was primarily due to Jerry Orbach's health issues at the time. In the storyline, it was explained that Detective Briscoe had retired from the police force after many years of service.
The specific details of his retirement were not extensively depicted on the show. The episode titled "Everybody Loves Raimondo's" (Season 14, Episode 24), which originally aired on May 19, 2004, served as Jerry Orbach's final appearance as Lennie Briscoe.
The character's retirement was handled with respect and acknowledged the impact Briscoe had made over the years. The departure of Lennie Briscoe marked the end of an era on "Law & Order," as he had become one of the show's most beloved and iconic characters.
Why did Jerry Orbach Leave Law and Order - FAQs
Jerry Orbach was born on October 20, 1935, in the Bronx, New York City, USA.
Jerry Orbach passed away on December 28, 2004, due to complications from prostate cancer. He had been battling the disease for several years.
Jerry Orbach left a lasting legacy as a versatile and beloved actor. His portrayal of Detective Lennie Briscoe on "Law & Order" and his contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues.