Sam Waterston Departs 'Law & Order,' Tony Goldwyn Steps In
Sam Waterston, the esteemed actor known for his portrayal of District Attorney Jack McCoy, is set to leave the long-running NBC series "Law & Order." Waterston, who has been with the show since its fourth season in 1994, has appeared in over 400 episodes. His tenure on the series has spanned 19 seasons, making him the longest-running cast member in the history of the show. Waterston's final episode is scheduled to air on February 22.
Stepping into the role of district attorney will be Tony Goldwyn, who is recognized for his performance as President Fitzgerald Grant III in the television series "Scandal" and his role in the 1990 film "Ghost." Waterston, who began his acting career on the stage with a focus on Shakespeare, has been honored with a SAG Award and received nominations for both Emmy and Golden Globe awards for his work on "Law & Order."
"Law & Order," which has been a staple of television drama for over two decades, continues to perform well, averaging over 6 million viewers in its current 23rd season. The show is known for its revolving cast and has seen many changes over the years. Waterston, despite his departure, had expressed a desire to continue his career on the show, likening his longevity to that of New York District Attorney Robert Morgenthau. With Goldwyn joining the ensemble, the series moves forward with a new district attorney as it continues to navigate the complex and often dramatic world of criminal justice on television.
