LAW & ORDER: Sam Waterston to Exit in February, Tony Goldwyn Joins the Cast

The LAW & ORDER franchise will soon say goodbye to one of its most iconic performers: Sam Waterston is exiting LAW & ORDER on Thursday, February 22.

Waterston, who originated the role of Jack McCoy in 1994 during the original run of the mothership, celebrated his 400th episode on L&O in May of 2023. He’s also portrayed the character on LAW & ORDER spinoffs SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT and TRIAL BY JURY, as well as in two episodes of HOMICIDE: LIFE ON THE STREET.

With an upcoming void in the DA’s office, the NBC series has tapped SCANDAL vet Tony Goldwyn to play the new district attorney. This marks Goldwyn’s second experience in the LAW & ORDER world, after an arc in CRIMINAL INTENT.

LAW & ORDER also stars Hugh Dancy, Camryn Manheim, Odelya Halevi, Mehcad Brooks, and Reid Scott.

Update, 11:13 AM PT: Waterston has released a statement via Wolf Entertainment’s website, reading:

“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.

Thank you,

Sam”

Update, Thursday, February 8: Watch a promo for Waterston’s final episode, “Last Dance”…

Update, Wednesday, February 21: Goldwyn posted an on-set photo from his first episode and revealed his character’s name: DA Nicholas Baxter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Tony Goldwyn (@tonygoldwyn)

Update, Thursday, February 29: Watch a promo for Goldwyn’s first episode:

LAW & ORDER, Thursdays, 8/7c, NBC

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