“Law & Order”’s Jill Hennessy Says Working with Sam Waterston and Jerry Orbach Was ‘the Best Acting Education’

**Jill Hennessy Reflects on Impactful Early Career with ‘Law & Order’**

Canadian actress Jill Hennessy recently shared her experiences and the invaluable lessons she learned during her time on the iconic American television series ‘Law & Order’. Known for her role as Assistant District Attorney Claire Kincaid, Hennessy was part of the show for three seasons, making a significant impact on viewers before her character’s tragic demise in a car accident. In a recent interview on ‘Nostalgia Tonight with Joe Sibilia’, Hennessy recalled her journey as a newcomer in the acting world.

At the age of 57, Hennessy reflected on the initial intimidation she felt upon joining the cast of ‘Law & Order’. Having moved from Canada to New York City, she found herself sharing the screen with some of the most respected actors in the industry, including Sam Waterston and Jerry Orbach. “When I first joined that show, it was intimidating,” Hennessy admitted. Despite her feelings of apprehension, she quickly discovered that the cast and crew were welcoming and supportive, which helped ease her transition into the fast-paced world of television.

The actress credited her time on the set as an extraordinary learning experience. “You feel like you’re just part of this well-oiled machine,” she noted, describing it as one of the best forms of education she could have received in the field. The collaborative environment on set not only boosted her confidence but also nurtured her skills as an actress.

One of the most surprising aspects of her experience was the encouragement she received from her seasoned co-stars. Hennessy recounted how acclaimed actor Len Cariou took the time to approach her and compliment her performance. “Hey, Jill, I’m Len… really liked your work,” he had said. The heartfelt praise left her astonished, highlighting the generosity often found among established actors towards their less experienced counterparts.

The memories of her interactions with the legendary Steven Hill, who played District Attorney Adam Schiff, also resonated deeply with Hennessy. She affectionately referred to Hill as an “acting god” and recounted a memorable moment when he welcomed her on set with a warm, friendly gesture that contradicted the warnings she had received about his reserved nature due to his Orthodox Jewish beliefs. “He smacked me on the back and said, ‘Hennessy, so good to meet ya! Welcome to the show,'” she fondly remembered, illustrating the warmth in his character.

Beyond her well-known role in ‘Law & Order’, Hennessy enjoyed another prominent part as Dr. Jordan Cavanaugh in the series ‘Crossing Jordan’, which aired from 2001 to 2007. This further established her as a formidable presence in the television landscape, and she continued to build her career with roles in shows such as ‘Madam Secretary’, ‘Bull’, and ‘Yellowstone’. In addition to her acting career, Hennessy has pursued music, having performed at the renowned Lilith Fair music festival in 2010.

Currently, Hennessy is starring as Hattie Quinn in Hallmark+’s ‘Hope Valley: 1874’, a prequel to the series ‘When Calls the Heart’. The character is depicted as a determined pioneer woman, showcasing Hennessy’s versatility and sustained relevance in the acting world.

As ‘Law & Order’ gears up for its 25th season, Hennessy’s reflections on her formative years within this iconic series provide a glimpse into the profound effect it had on her career. The supportive atmosphere and the lessons learned alongside acting legends have undoubtedly shaped her journey as a performer, leaving an indelible mark on her artistic identity.

Through her candid recollections, Hennessy not only celebrates her time on ‘Law & Order’ but also honours the collaborative spirit of the entertainment industry that fosters growth and creativity. As she continues to take on new roles, her early experiences serve as a reminder of the importance of camaraderie and encouragement in the pursuit of artistic excellence.