Sam Waterston announced that he will be exiting “Law & Order” after 30 years on the show.
It’s the end of an era for Waterston, who played the role of Jack McCoy in more than 400 episodes of “Law and Order” since he first began in 1994. The famous actor, who has been a pillar on the show for three decades, issued a statement on social media, Friday, informing fans this is goodbye.
“Greetings, you wonderful people,” he wrote on Instagram.
“It’s a pleasure to talk directly like this to the backbone of Law & Order’s absolutely amazing audience. The time has come for me to move on and take Jack McCoy with me,” the famous actor continued.
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Waterston provided fans with an explanation about how he came to this decision.
“There’s sadness in leaving, but I’m just too curious about what’s next,” he said. “An actor doesn’t want to let himself get too comfortable. I’m more grateful to you than I can say.”
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – SEPTEMBER 28: Actor Sam Waterston arrives at The Rape Foundation’s Annual Brunchat Greenacres, The Private Estate of Ron Burkle on September 28, 2014 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Valerie Macon/Getty Images)
“L&O’s continuing and amazing long run, along with its astounding comeback, 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,” the actor added on Instagram.
Waterston earned a SAG award, numerous Emmy awards and a number of Golden Glob nominations during his time on the hit NBC series, according to People.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 19: Sam Waterston attends NBC’s “Law & Order” Season Premiere at Capitale on September 19, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Rob Kim/Getty Images)
Fans wishing to catch another glimpse of the star in action can tune in to see Waterston’s final episode, scheduled to air February 22, the outlet reported.
He signed off with the words, “I feel very blessed. I hope to see you all on the flip side.” (RELATED: ‘Law & Order: SVU’ Sparks Backlash After Episode Features White Victim Asking To Drop Charges Against Black Rapist)
Goldwyn will join the long-running series as an unnamed District Attorney, and will appear alongside regular actors Hugh Dancy, Camryn Manheim, Odelya Halevi, Mehcad Brooks and Reid Scott, according to People.