Sam Waterston Departs Law & Order After 30 Years; Tony Goldwyn Joins Cast

After an illustrious 30-year tenure, Sam Waterston bids farewell to Law & Order, concluding his role as District Attorney Jack McCoy. His final episode, marking over 400 appearances, is scheduled to air on Feb. 22. Simultaneously, Scandal star Tony Goldwyn is set to join the esteemed cast.

End of an Era:

On Feb. 2, Sam Waterston, at 83, announced his departure from Law & Order, bringing closure to a remarkable chapter in his career. Reflecting on more than 400 episodes as District Attorney Jack McCoy, he expressed a sense of curiosity about future endeavors, emphasizing that an actor must avoid becoming too comfortable.

Farewell Statement:

In a statement to E! News, Waterston conveyed mixed emotions, acknowledging the sadness of parting ways while expressing anticipation for the unknown. He extended gratitude to the dedicated fans and Law & Order creator Dick Wolf for their unwavering support throughout the series’ extended and remarkable run on NBC.

Legacy of Jack McCoy:

Waterston’s association with Law & Order began in 1994 and endured until the show’s initial conclusion in 2010. His return for the 2022 revival marked a reunion with a character that has become synonymous with the series.

Transition to New Horizons:

Amidst the departure of Waterston, Scandal actor Tony Goldwyn steps into the Law & Order ensemble. The addition of Goldwyn brings fresh energy to the series, providing a dynamic shift in the legal drama landscape.

Acknowledging Fan Support:

Waterston expressed feeling blessed by the ongoing support of fans and recognized the incredible journey of Law & Order. His gratitude extended to the dedicated viewers who have been part of the series’ enduring success.

Looking Ahead:

As Waterston concludes his chapter as Jack McCoy, the Law & Order narrative evolves with new dynamics introduced by Tony Goldwyn. The departure of a beloved character marks both an end and a beginning, promising fans a continued exploration of compelling legal narratives.

Final Episode Airs on Feb. 22:

The culmination of Waterston’s legacy on Law & Order will be witnessed in his final episode airing on Feb. 22, providing fans with a poignant moment to bid farewell to District Attorney Jack McCoy and welcome the evolving narrative that awaits.