When one character leaves the Law and Order universe, it seems another one is always around the corner.
This time around, it's happening with Sam Waterston, who portrayed District Attorney Jack McCoy starting in season 5 (until the show was canceled in 2010, but then he reprised his role in 2022). In an announcement made by Variety on February 2, it was revealed that Sam will exit Law and Order after starring in more than 400 episodes. His final appearance will be on tonight's show, airing Thursday, February 22 at 8 p.m. ET. What's more, the outlet revealed that Scandal alum Tony Goldwyn is set to take Sam's place on the show as the new district attorney.
When fans discovered one of the longest-running actors in the hit TV franchise was stepping away, they immediately lamented the news online.
"Noooooooo! I’m going to miss him on there!!" one person exclaimed on Instagram. "Great actor. Watched every episode at least 5 times or more. He is Law and Order. You will be missed," another remarked. "The end of an era 🥺😢," a different follower added.
While folks are sad to see Sam leave the show, others will excited to see what Tony's presence will bring to the future of Law and Order.
"@tonygoldwyn Yaaaaasssss!!! Going to miss him but you’re going to be perfect!!! 👏👏," one person exclaimed in the comments. "Tony Goldwyn would be the only person who could fill those shoes!" another agreed. "Tony Goldwyn is the PERFECT choice!!" one more declared.
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Tony Goldwyn on Scandal.
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Sam Waterston on Law and Order.
As for Sam's feelings on exiting Law and Order, he addressed the news and reflected how much playing McCoy has meant to him over the years.
"Greetings, you wonderful people," he began the statement posted on Instagram. "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," he added. "[Law and Order]’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."
Sam will surely be missed.
