S. Epatha Merkerson, renowned for her role in the iconic procedural drama “Law & Order,” has recently opened up about her experiences on the show, sharing heartfelt memories and insights from her extensive 17-season tenure. The actress, now 73, has fondly recalled her time on set, noting the remarkable impact the series has had on television culture.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/S-Epatha-Merkerson-law-and-order-080526-1-ab97dc69ebf6427792d3048264e9f829.jpg)
In an interview with PEOPLE, Merkerson expressed her admiration for Jerry Stiller, whom she described as her favourite guest star due to his warmth and sense of humour. Stiller, beloved for his comedic talents, appeared in two episodes of “Law & Order” across the 1990s. “He was just such a nice guy. He was funny. He had great stories,” she reminisced. Stiller passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy that is well remembered by both fans and his colleagues.
Reflecting on her time with other cast members, Merkerson recalled the numerous actors she had the privilege to work with. Many were young talents who had begun their careers as child actors on the show. “It was pretty much the only thing in town,” she remarked, noting that all actors seemed to have a “Law & Order” credit. Merkerson’s sentiments reflect the show’s influence on emerging talent within the industry at that time.
Merkerson first graced the screens as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren in 1991, securing a permanent spot from 1993 to 2010. Her portrayal of the tough yet compassionate lieutenant has left an indelible mark on viewers, with many still recognising her in public. “I might pass some police officers, and they’d go, ‘Oh, hey, Lieu,’” she shared. Her on-screen presence connected her with fans and law enforcement alike, making her role memorable long after the series concluded.
The actress fondly remembered her working relationships with co-stars, particularly Dennis Farina and Jesse Martin. “That was my favourite combination,” she stated. Merkerson expressed her appreciation for the camaraderie fostered on set, revealing that she remains in touch with several former colleagues, including Martin and Ben Bratt. “That kind of family, you just don’t drop,” she explained, highlighting the enduring friendships forged during her time on the show.
Reflecting on her lengthy run, Merkerson revealed that being part of such a significant project has profoundly shaped her career. “It’s kind of cool actually that I was on the show that long, and I loved it because it allowed me to stay at home, and I got to do theatre on my breaks,” she remarked. The balance between theatre and television proved beneficial, allowing her to engage in her passion for performing while contributing to a groundbreaking series.
Merkerson also acknowledged the show’s broader influence on television. “To be involved with something as the history of it… made a huge impact,” she noted. The show’s unique filming style, characterised by its moving camera work, played a crucial role in transforming how television stories were told, and Merkerson believes this innovation reflects the talent and dedication of the writers, producers, and actors involved.
As she reminisces about her time on “Law & Order,” Merkerson expressed pride in being part of a cultural phenomenon. “It was a phenomenon, really, and to have been a part of that has really been an honour for me,” she concluded. The series has not only impacted its viewers, but it has also shaped the landscape of television, setting a standard for future procedural dramas.
With her extensive career and a lasting legacy in the acting world, S. Epatha Merkerson continues to be celebrated for her contributions to television. Her reflections on “Law & Order” offer not just a glimpse into her personal journey, but also a testament to the show’s enduring influence on generations of viewers and aspiring actors.