Law & Order fans are no strangers to a cast shake-up, but this week, they were delivered news no one was prepared for. With a potentially exciting new addition to the cast comes a major departure. On Friday, it was announced that after 20 years, Sam Waterston would be exiting the series, where he played District Attorney Jack McCoy for over 400 episodes. The news sent ripples throughout the Law & Order fan community.
Waterston Has Been a Series Staple Since 1994
Sam Waterston first appeared as Jack McCoy on Law & Order in 1994. Waterston remained a principal cast member through the end of the show’s original run in 2010. In 2022, the series returned for a 21st season after the decade-plus hiatus. At the time, Waterston happily returned to his post, to the joy of longtime fans of the show.
Variety reports that the beloved actor’s last episode will air later this month, on Thursday, Feb. 22.
Waterston Reflected On His Time in the Role
In a statement, the 83-year-old actor reflected on his twenty years as D.A. Jack McCoy and thanked fans for their dedication to the character.
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 come-back, is all thanks to you and to 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.”
Sam Waterston
The Beloved Actor’s Replacement Also Led to Some Reactions
Waterston’s absence leaves the need for a new district attorney, and they’ve chosen a familiar face to fill the void. Tony Goldwyn, best known for playing Fitz in Scandal, will join the cast. Fans are sharing mixed reactions about the casting, with many happy to see Goldwyn back on their TV screens.
I can’t even remember the last time I watch a non-SVU episode of Law and Order. But will I be tuning in to watch Fitzgerald Grant III himself, Tony Goldwyn, as the new DA? Yes. Yes, I absolutely will be.
@allyremelle/X
the day mariska hargitay and tony goldwyn share the screen is the day I DIE, crossover when???”
@shephsmulti/X
Others don’t think Goldwyn is the right pick to fill Waterston’s legendary shoes.
Has Tony Goldwyn ever played a likable character? … Built a career on awful men.”
@ErinMPeyton/X
Production hasn’t provided any further commentary on Goldwyn’s character or when he’ll debut. In the meantime, fans will be glued to their screens to watch Waterston through his final appearance. They’ll be watching closely to see if Goldwyn will rise to the occasion.
