**Sam Waterston Reflects on His Legacy and Life After Law & Order**
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After an illustrious career spanning nearly 30 years and over 400 episodes, Sam Waterston has bid farewell to his iconic role as Jack McCoy on NBC’s renowned legal drama, *Law & Order*. Yet, the actor, now 85, has chosen to remain connected to the show that solidified his place in television history. At the recent opening night of Shakespeare in the Park, Waterston spoke candidly about his time on the series and how life has shifted since he left the courtroom behind.
Joining *Law & Order* in 1994, Waterston portrayed Executive Assistant District Attorney Jack McCoy, a character known for his sharp wit and relentless pursuit of justice. Over the years, McCoy evolved from a fiery courtroom lawyer to the District Attorney of Manhattan, becoming a quintessential figure not just in the series, but across the franchise as a whole. Waterston’s portrayal is lauded as one of the longest-running roles in primetime television.
While acknowledging his deep connection to McCoy, Waterston admitted he still tunes in to *Law & Order* occasionally. “I do sometimes, yes,” he revealed when asked whether he watches the show post-retirement. However, when pressed for a favourite episode from his extensive run, he humorously deflected, saying, “Oh gosh, no.”
Life outside the pressures of televised courtrooms seems to suit Waterston well. Reflecting on his experiences after leaving the show, he described this new chapter as “beautiful,” a sentiment he reiterated for emphasis. The shift in pace has allowed him meaningful moments with family and loved ones, something he cherishes deeply. “Well, we’ve been living our life, my wife and I,” he noted. “We’re very lucky where we live and then our family and our children. And they are thriving, and it’s good.”
As he embraces the tranquillity that comes with retirement, Waterston articulated one of the considerable advantages of his current lifestyle: a more relaxed schedule. “Not having to get up early and not having to stay late. It’s good,” he said with a sense of contentment.
The Shakespeare in the Park event also brought back fond memories for Waterston, as he recalled a significant chapter in his life when he met his wife during a production of *Much Ado About Nothing*. “The year I did *Much Ado About Nothing*, I also met my wife,” he reminisced. “So this would be a good year to repeat, but endlessly.” This year, the couple made plans to continue their tradition of theatre date nights. “We’re doing one tonight,” he shared with a hint of excitement.
Despite embracing a quieter lifestyle, Waterston has not forgotten his passion for the arts. His long-standing connection to the Shakespeare in the Park has allowed him to remain active within the theatre community, a space he holds dear.
As he moves forward, Waterston also looks ahead to the future of *Law & Order*, which has been announced to return with new episodes for NBC’s 2026-2027 season. For fans who have followed the series closely, it remains a talking point in contemporary television, and its enduring legacy continues to resonate beyond its original episodes.
In the lively world of television and theatre, Sam Waterston stands as a significant figure, beloved by audiences for his compelling performances and dedication to his craft. With a deep sense of gratitude and a heart full of contentment, he steps into this new chapter, ready to enjoy both the art he adores and the family he loves.