Sam Waterston reflects on his departure from ‘Law & Order’ after three decades
Actor Sam Waterston Departs “Law & Order” After 30 Years
Beloved actor Sam Waterston bids farewell to the iconic series “Law & Order” after an impressive run of 30 years and over 400 episodes portraying District Attorney Jack McCoy.
Embracing the Next Chapter
In an interview with “Today,” the 83-year-old star expressed his contentment with leaving the character behind, stating that he had anticipated this moment. Waterston returned full-time to the series in 2022 after sporadic appearances in previous years. Reflecting on his departure, he remarked, “This was a beautiful way to go, I have to say.”
“When they say goodbye to me, the last shot that I did was on the set of the courtroom, and [series creator] Dick Wolf showed up, and everybody gave speeches, and I quoted from Abraham Lincoln going to D.C. at the beginning of the Civil War. And he had been there for 25 years. If 25 years doesn’t matter, nothing matters.”
Waterston originally portrayed Jack McCoy from 1994 to 2010 before his triumphant return. His exceptional performance earned him three Emmy Award nominations and a Golden Globe nomination.
A New Era Begins
As Waterston bids farewell, “Scandal” actor Tony Goldwyn will join the cast, exciting both fans and the departing star. Waterston expressed his confidence in Goldwyn’s abilities, stating, “I think he’s going to be great… It’ll be what the DA is: demanding. A lot of fun to watch.”
Embracing Freedom and Future Endeavors
While looking forward to having more free time, Waterston assured fans that he has no plans to retire from acting. He humorously mentioned that his wife and manager will handle finding his next role. Reflecting on his newfound freedom, he shared, “It happened the minute I was walking off the set of the courtroom on that last day. Suddenly, there was space in my head that I didn’t even know there was that had been occupied by the job forever.”
Waterston is excited about the endless possibilities ahead, jokingly claiming to be “drunk on just the freedom.” With a bucket list “a million miles long,” he eagerly embraces the next chapter of his career.
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What aspects of Waterston’s acting made his portrayal of McCoy so powerful and memorable?
Om, and they did a wide shot and it was empty,” Waterston shared. “It’s a famous stage, the courtroom is a famous place. And for all these years, I walked in there and somebody said, ‘Mr. McCoy,’ and I would turn and there would be my chair and I’d walk over to it and sit down. And now, nothing was there. Just an empty courtroom. And it was really powerful.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Waterston’s portrayal of District Attorney Jack McCoy has become an indelible part of television history. Known for his dedication to justice and powerful courtroom performances, McCoy has captured the hearts of fans around the world. Waterston’s nuanced acting and ability to bring depth to the character have earned him critical acclaim and multiple award nominations throughout the years. His departure from “Law & Order” marks the end of an era and a significant loss for the show’s loyal viewers.
Since joining the cast in 1994, Waterston has been a consistent presence on the series, often serving as the moral compass of the show. His character’s relentless pursuit of justice and unwavering commitment to the truth have made him a fan favorite. Waterston’s portrayal of McCoy has inspired aspiring lawyers and actors alike, leaving a lasting impact on both the legal and entertainment industries.
Looking Ahead
While Waterston may be bidding farewell to “Law & Order,” he shows no signs of slowing down. The veteran actor has an impressive body of work outside of the long-running series and is sure to continue captivating audiences with his talent and versatility. Waterston remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry, and his departure from “Law & Order” marks the end of an era but not the end of his illustrious career.
As fans say goodbye to District Attorney Jack McCoy, they can take comfort in the fact that Waterston’s legacy will endure. His contributions to the show and his portrayal of the iconic character will forever be remembered by fans and colleagues alike. “Law & Order” may continue its legacy with new cast members, but Waterston’s presence will undoubtedly be missed.
A Fond Farewell
Sam Waterston’s departure from “Law & Order” after 30 years is a significant milestone in television history. His portrayal of District Attorney Jack McCoy has left an indelible mark on the show and has made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. As audiences bid adieu to the iconic character, they will forever cherish the memories and impactful performances delivered by Waterston. Though the end of an era, Waterston’s departure only further cements his legacy as a talented and respected actor.
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