Veteran actor Sam Waterston has officially wrapped up his tenure as Jack McCoy in Law & Order after appearing in his final episode on Thursday.
The iconic character bid an emotional farewell to the courtroom, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in television history.
In a poignant conclusion to his character’s storyline, Jack McCoy made the difficult decision to resign following a conviction and his decision to go against the mayor’s wishes by questioning his son. In a heartfelt exchange with ADA Nolan, portrayed by Hugh Dancy, Jack revealed his resignation, acknowledging that it was time to step aside in the face of looming challenges.
Reflecting on his departure, Jack McCoy expressed his gratitude for the unforgettable journey he had experienced throughout the years. Waterston’s portrayal of the principled district attorney captivated audiences for nearly three decades, with his character navigating the complexities of the legal system with unwavering determination and integrity.
Waterston, 83, first joined the original Law & Order series in 1994, establishing himself as a central figure in the franchise until its original conclusion in 2010. He later returned to reprise his role when the show was revived for its 21st season in 2022. Additionally, Waterston portrayed Jack McCoy in spinoff series Law & Order: SVU and Law & Order: Trial by Jury, as well as the movie Exiled: A Law & Order Movie.
In a statement released earlier this month, Sam Waterston expressed his gratitude to the loyal fans of the series, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of his departure. The esteemed actor emphasized his eagerness to explore new opportunities and embrace the next chapter of his career, while also recognizing the enduring legacy of Law & Order and the visionary leadership of creator Dick Wolf.
With Waterston bidding farewell to the role of Jack McCoy, Tony Goldwyn will step into the shoes of the new district attorney, Nicholas Baxter. Goldwyn expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome from the Law & Order family and teased his upcoming debut in the series, set to air on March 14.
As fans bid farewell to Sam Waterston’s iconic portrayal of Jack McCoy, they eagerly anticipate the next chapter of Law & Order, confident that the legacy of the beloved series will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.
