After a long and illustrious career, Jack McCoy, portrayed by Sam Waterston, bid farewell to the courtroom in his final episode of 'Law & Order' on February 22. The episode showcased McCoy's decision to resign following a conviction and his defiance against the mayor's wishes not to question his son, leading to political repercussions.
During a heartfelt moment with ADA Nolan, played by Hugh Dancy, McCoy expressed his resignation, acknowledging the mayor's intent to undermine him in the upcoming election. He emphasized the importance of integrity in his successor, hinting at the governor's potential appointment.
Waterston, 83, first joined the original 'Law & Order' series in 1994 and continued in a leading role until the show's initial conclusion in 2010. His return in 2022 for the 21st season marked a significant moment for fans of the long-running franchise. Over the years, Waterston also portrayed McCoy in spinoffs like 'Law & Order: SVU' and 'Law & Order: Trial by Jury,' as well as the movie 'Exited: A Law & Order Movie.'
In a statement addressing his departure, Waterston expressed gratitude to the dedicated audience and highlighted the show's enduring success, attributing it to creator Dick Wolf's vision and perseverance. He conveyed a sense of anticipation for future endeavors, emphasizing the need for actors to embrace new challenges.
Tony Goldwyn is set to take on the role of the new district attorney, succeeding McCoy. Goldwyn shared his excitement for the opportunity on social media, acknowledging the significance of stepping into McCoy's 'very large shoes.' Fans can anticipate his debut as DA Nicholas Baxter in the upcoming episode airing on March 14.
