Sam Waterston

Sam Waterston earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination in 1973 for his role in the television drama ‘The Glass Menagerie,’ marking an early highlight in a distinguished career spanning stage, film, and television. He began his professional stage career on the New York stage in 1962, appearing in revivals of Shakespearean works and productions at the Public Theatre, including his Broadway debut in ‘Oh Dad, Poor Dad, Mamma’s Hung You in the Closet and I’m Feelin’ So Sad.’ Waterston made his film debut in ‘The Plastic Dome of Norma Jean’ in 1965, followed by supporting roles in ‘Fitzwilly’ (1967) and ‘Generation’ (1969), and a leading role in ‘Three’ (1969). His portrayal of Nick Carraway in ‘The Great Gatsby’ (1974) garnered Golden Globe nominations for Best Supporting Actor and New Star of the Year, solidifying his rising prominence in film. Waterston continued to build a distinguished filmography, collaborating with Woody Allen in films such as ‘Interiors’ (1978) and ‘Hannah and Her Sisters’ (1986).

He received critical recognition for his role as J. Robert Oppenheimer in the BBC miniseries ‘Oppenheimer’ (1980), earning a BAFTA nomination. A career-defining performance as journalist Sydney Schanberg in ‘The Killing Fields’ (1984) earned him an Academy Award nomination. He received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Drama for ‘I’ll Fly Away’ in 1992, and a Tony Award nomination for his stage work in ‘Abe Lincoln in Illinois’ in 1993.

He concluded his nearly three-decade tenure as Jack McCoy on ‘Law & Order’ in February 2024, solidifying his legacy as one of television’s most memorable and enduring characters, while continuing to demonstrate a versatile talent across all mediums.