New York, NY – After almost three decades on the air, “Law & Order” bid farewell to one of its most beloved characters, prosecutor Jack McCoy.
Sam Waterston, the actor behind the iconic role, made his final appearance in the show’s latest episode, marking the end of an era for the long-running legal drama. The departure of Waterston’s character came after a dramatic turn of events, including a conviction and a decision to resign in the face of political pressure and threats to his career.
Waterston, 83, had first joined the series in 1994 and became a staple of the show’s success until its original end in 2010. He then made a return in 2022 when the show was revived for its 21st season. His portrayal of Jack McCoy also extended to spinoffs like “Law & Order: SVU” and “Law & Order: Trial by Jury,” as well as the movie “Exited: A Law & Order Movie.”
In a recent statement, Waterston expressed gratitude to the show’s dedicated audience and reflected on his departure, expressing a mix of sadness and excitement for the future.
As a tribute to Waterston’s contribution to the show, Tony Goldwyn has been tapped to replace McCoy as the new district attorney. This transition will be unveiled in the upcoming episode on March 14. Goldwyn, known for his role in “Scandal,” has already shared his excitement about joining the “Law & Order” family and stepping into the shoes of such a beloved character.