Law & Order is a classic police procedural and legal drama that has been a staple of television for over two decades. The show is known for its ripped-from-the-headlines storylines, which explore serious and often deadly crimes that are based on real-life news events. The characters in the show are dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to solve these cases and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The first part of the show focuses on the police investigation, led by the experienced and tenacious Detective Ed Green, played by Jesse L. Martin. Green is a seasoned detective who has seen it all, and he approaches each case with a keen eye for detail and a deep commitment to justice. He is partnered with a variety of other detectives and officers over the course of the show, all of whom bring their own unique skills and perspectives to the table. Together, they work to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and question suspects until they can identify and apprehend the person responsible for the crime.
The second part of the show follows the district attorney's office as they build a case to convict the perpetrator. This is led by the ambitious and principled District Attorney Jack McCoy, played by Sam Waterston. McCoy is a seasoned prosecutor who is known for his fierce dedication to justice and his willingness to bend the rules to get the job done. He is joined by a team of assistant district attorneys, investigators, and other legal professionals who work together to build a strong case and present it in court. Their goal is to prove the person guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and they use all the resources at their disposal to make sure that justice is served.
Throughout the show, the characters navigate the complex and often challenging criminal justice system, working together to make New York a safer place. They face a variety of obstacles and challenges along the way, from recalcitrant witnesses and slippery suspects to legal technicalities and ethical dilemmas. But through it all, they remain committed to their mission and to each other, demonstrating the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and a strong sense of justice. Whether you're a fan of police procedurals, legal dramas, or just great storytelling, Law & Order is a show that is sure to keep you engaged and entertained.
Main Cast of Law & Order
Dennis Farina
Joe Fontana
Dennis Farina's portrayal of Detective Joe Fontana in "Law & Order" was nothing short of captivating. His character, a Chicago cop turned New York detective, brought a unique flavor to the series with his tough-guy demeanor and unconventional investigative techniques. Farina's charismatic performance was filled with a mix of humor, grit, and emotion, making Fontana a standout character in the show's extensive lineup. His natural charisma and commanding screen presence added depth to the character, making him a fan favorite and a memorable addition to the "Law & Order" universe.
Anthony Anderson
Kevin Bernard
Anthony Anderson brought a fresh dynamic to the long-running series "Law & Order" with his portrayal of Detective Kevin Bernard, a role he assumed in the show's 18th season. As the final detective to be partnered with the series' stalwart Lt. Anita Van Buren, Anderson infused his character with a blend of intensity and empathy that resonated with audiences. His performance was characterized by a sharp intellect and a relatable warmth, as he navigated the complexities of high-stakes investigations with a mix of street smarts and a deep understanding of human behavior. Anderson's Bernard was a compassionate yet no-nonsense detective, whose commitment to justice was evident in his meticulous casework and his interactions with both victims and suspects. His chemistry with the ensemble cast, particularly with S. Epatha Merkerson's Van Buren, added a layer of depth to the show during its final seasons, ensuring that Anderson's Bernard would be remembered as a key component of the "Law & Order" legacy.
George Dzundza
Max Greevey
George Dzundza brought a distinctive gravitas to the role of Max Greevey in the inaugural season of Dick Wolf's groundbreaking series "Law & Order." As the original senior detective of the NYPD's homicide unit, Dzundza's portrayal was a cornerstone of the show's early success. His Greevey was a seasoned, no-nonsense investigator with a gravelly voice and a world-weary demeanor that conveyed both the weight of his experience and the toll that the job took on him. Dzundza's performance was marked by a palpable authenticity, capturing the nuanced blend of cynicism and compassion that defines many real-life detectives. His interactions with co-star Chris Noth, who played his junior partner Mike Logan, set the template for the partnership dynamics that would become a hallmark of the series. Dzundza imbued Greevey with a sense of moral integrity and dedication to justice, making his tragic death at the end of the first season a poignant moment that resonated with viewers and set the stage for the series' revolving door of characters. His portrayal of Max Greevey remains a memorable and foundational element of the "Law & Order" legacy.
Paul Sorvino
Phil Cerreta
Paul Sorvino delivered a memorable performance as Detective Sergeant Phil Cerreta on the critically acclaimed television series "Law & Order." Joining the cast in the show's second season, Sorvino brought a nuanced and authoritative presence to the role, portraying Cerreta as a seasoned and empathetic detective with a strong moral compass. His character was often seen as the heart of the squad room, balancing the intensity of the investigations with a sense of humanity and a touch of humor. Sorvino's portrayal was characterized by his deep, resonant voice and an ability to convey quiet strength, whether he was interrogating suspects with a measured calm or expressing the toll that the job took on his character's personal life. His chemistry with co-star Chris Noth, who played his partner Detective Mike Logan, was particularly noteworthy, as they navigated the gritty streets of New York City solving complex cases. Sorvino's tenure on the show, although relatively brief, left an indelible mark on the "Law & Order" franchise, with his performance as Phil Cerreta being remembered for its authenticity and depth.
Mehcad Brooks
Jalen Shaw
Mehcad Brooks delivers a compelling performance as Jalen Shaw in the television series "Law & Order." His portrayal of the character is nuanced and dynamic, capturing the complexities of a high-powered attorney with a penchant for justice. Brooks brings a magnetic presence to the screen, imbuing Jalen Shaw with a blend of charisma, intelligence, and a simmering intensity that commands attention. His interactions with the cast are electric, often serving as a formidable adversary or unexpected ally to the series' stalwart detectives and prosecutors. Brooks' performance is highlighted by his ability to convey deep emotional layers, showcasing Jalen Shaw's personal struggles and moral dilemmas, which adds depth to the legal drama's already rich narrative tapestry. His portrayal not only enriches the character's arc but also contributes significantly to the show's exploration of contemporary legal and social issues, making Jalen Shaw a memorable addition to the "Law & Order" universe.
Jesse L. Martin
Ed Green
Jesse L. Martin's portrayal of Detective Ed Green in 'Law & Order' is both captivating and authentic. With his commanding presence and sharp investigative skills, Martin brings a dynamic energy to the series. He effortlessly balances Ed Green's tough exterior with his empathetic nature, making viewers genuinely invested in the character's journey. Martin's performance is consistently engaging, delivering powerful moments of drama alongside bits of humor, making him a fan-favorite character during his tenure on the show.
Sam Waterston
Jack McCoy
Sam Waterston's portrayal of Jack McCoy in the long-running television series "Law & Order" is nothing short of impressive. As the ambitious Executive Assistant District Attorney, Waterston brings a certain gravitas to the role, delivering his lines with a powerful and convincing tone. His nuanced performance adds layers of complexity to the character, revealing McCoy's intelligence, tenacity, and even vulnerability at times. With his sharp wit and charisma, Waterston commands the screen and keeps viewers engaged, making McCoy one of the most beloved characters in the series. His work has earned him multiple award nominations and solidified him as a respected actor in the industry.
Hugh Dancy
Nolan Price
Hugh Dancy delivers a riveting performance as Assistant District Attorney Nolan Price in the television series 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'. With a stoic and analytical demeanor, Nolan brings a fresh perspective to the team, solving crimes with a razor-sharp intellect and a deep sense of justice. Dancy's portrayal is engaging, showing both an unwavering determination and a vulnerable side to the character, adding layers of depth to Nolan's personal and professional life. His dynamic presence contributes to the compelling storyline, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they explore the intricate and captivating world of the series.
Benjamin Bratt
Rey Curtis
Chris Noth
Mike Logan
Reid Scott
Vincent Riley
Dann Florek
Donald Cragen
Steven Hill
Adam Schiff
Fred Thompson
Arthur Branch
Dianne Wiest
Nora Lewin
Tony Goldwyn
Nicholas Baxter
Michael Moriarty
Ben Stone
Linus Roache
Michael Cutter
Jill Hennessy
Claire Kincaid
Angie Harmon
Abbie Carmichael
Alana de la Garza
Connie Rubirosa
Elisabeth Röhm
Serena Southerlyn
Richard Brooks
Paul Robinette
Odelya Halevi
Samantha Maroun
Carey Lowell
Jamie Ross
Carolyn McCormick
Elizabeth Olivet
Jerry Orbach
Frank Lehrman , Lennie Briscoe
S. Epatha Merkerson
Denise Winters , Anita Van Buren
Annie Parisse
Jasmine Blake , Alexandra Borgia
Milena Govich
Geneva , Nina Cassady
Maura Tierney
Patricia 'Patti' Blaine , Jessica Brady
Ron Silver
Bernie Adler
Patti LuPone
Ruth Miller
Priscilla Lopez
Sally Packard
Susan Browning
Jury Forewoman
Michael Jace
Otis Cooke
Nicholas Turturro
Poletti
Megan Gallagher
Monica Devries
Rosanna DeSoto
Mrs. Ortega
Trey Wilson
Defense Attorney Eddie Cosmatos
Ashley Crow
Mrs. Jenna Kealey
Daniel Dae Kim
Dr. Harry Watanabe
Erik King
Dorian 'Silky' Ford
Marian Seldes
Suzanne
Kelly Bishop
Marian Borland
Laurence Luckinbill
Cyrus Weaver
Michael Badalucco
David Zifrin
Luis Guzmán
Cesar Pescador
Mary Alice
Virginia Bryan
Christine Dunford
Reporter
Catherine Lloyd Burns
Sheila Herlihy
Lycia Naff
Mimi Sternhagen
Harley Cross
Jamie Maser
Elise Neal
Charlayne Ward
Ethan Phillips
Mark Hauser
Shirley Stoler
Charlie Maylen
Todd Louiso
Levine
Susan Batson
Mavis
Daryl Mitchell
Reginald Beggs
Anson Mount
James Sterling
Jennifer Beals
Sofia Archer
Billie Jean King
Muriel Gilden
Clifford David
Oswald Jackson
Randy Sklar
Barry Finneran
Vondie Curtis-Hall
Dr. Andrew Copelan
Lord Jamar
Leon Griggs
Sarah Ramos
Mary Reese
Estella Warren
April Troost
Zena Grey
Lena Marchetti
Wendy Hoopes
Denise Clark
Walter Charles
James McBride
Billy Smith
Detective Carlson
Mario Van Peebles
Mr. Carsley
Earl Hindman
Defense Attorney Riley
Mariel Hemingway
Ashley Jones
Adrienne Shelly
Wendy Alston
Xander Berkeley
Clay Pollack
Charlotte Ross
Judith Barlow
Kristina Klebe
Jill Dupree
Sam Ball
Peter Williams
Roberta Maxwell
Teresa Brewster
Dana Eskelson
Karen Nix
Nora Dunn
Rosalie Schaffner
Dorothy Lyman
Dorothy Carr
Nicki Aycox
Kate Westwood
Brad Dourif
David Lingard
Janeane Garofalo
Greta Heiss
Malcolm Gets
Lance Keyes
Theodore Bikel
Sol Bregman
Marjorie Monaghan
Cathy
Francis Guinan
Jed Coles
Robert LaSardo
Garage Attendant
Sully Diaz
Alicia Rivers
Mara Hobel
Ellen
Diane Salinger
Eugenia Rawlings
Kim Chan
Restaurant Manager
Robert Lansing
COO Peter O'Farrell
John Spencer
Howard Morton
Bernard Barrow
Mr. Hamilton
Philip Seymour Hoffman
Steven Hanauer
Allen Garfield
Carl Berg
Cynthia Martells
Sandra Koblin
Robin Tunney
Jill Templeton
Frankie Faison
Lester Crawford
Lee Wallace
Judge Thomas Simon
Joe Seneca
Lionel Jackson
Blanche Baker
Lucy Neven
Elizabeth Hubbard
Mrs. Cleary
Frances Foster
Mary Tillar
Kevin J. O'Connor
Patrick McCarter
Lisa Vidal
Lena Armendariz
Tom Berenger
Dean Tyler
Lynda Carter
Lorraine Dillon
Peter Strauss
Dr. Paul Cedars
Tracie Thoms
Linda Ziman
Joseph Cross
Will Shea
Amy Hargreaves
Dana Wechsler
Samrat Chakrabarti
Hydar Raheem
Mary Kay Adams
Nancy Alvarez
Tomas Milian
Colonel Emilio Pantoya
Hazelle Goodman
Mrs. Gordon
Krysten Ritter
Tracy Warren
Amy Carlson
Collette Connolly
Julie Benz
Dawn Sterling
Dee Hoty
H. Kifner
Adam Arkin
George Costas
Chris Sarandon
Defense Attorney Howard Pincham
Thomas Calabro
Ned Loomis
Paul Collins
Defense Attorney Roger Easton
Alice Drummond
Zelda
Kevin Sussman
Joe
Paul Guilfoyle
Anthony Scalisi
Richard Backus
Hamilton Burns Jr.
Sabrina Lloyd
Kate 'Katie' Silver
James Noble
Judge Nelson Kurland
James DuMont
Desk Clerk
Werner Klemperer
William Unger
Lauren Graham
Lisa Lundquist
Paxton Whitehead
Fenwick
Gil Bellows
Howard Metzler
Mel Gorham
Woman #1
Timothy Carhart
Warren Abbott
Schuyler Grant
Callie
Bibi Besch
Margaret Berman
Ilene Kristen
Sandra Krane
Shirley Knight
Melanie Cullen
Vera Farmiga
Lindsay Carson
James Earl Jones
Defense Attorney Horace McCoy
Minnie Gentry
Bernice
Harrison Young
Gus
Kevin Smith
Tony's wife's nephew
Wendie Malick
Defense Attorney Dressler
Billy Burke
Mr. Farmer
Michael Gross
Carl Braddock
Aleksa Palladino
Teresa Drosi
Andrea Roth
Marley Emerson
Colin Fickes
Paul
Mark Pinter
Raymond Quinn
Steve Schirripa
Federico Libretti
Maz Jobrani
Asher Koutal
Joel Fabiani
Faber
Don Amendolia
Gregory Finney
Kavi Ladnier
Indian Woman
Ernie Hudson
Frank Gibson
Elaine Stritch
Lanie Stieglitz
Lorraine Toussaint
Shambala Green
Donal Donnelly
Daniel Mallahan
Joel Polis
Dr. Joel Friedman
Eli Wallach
Simon Vilanis
Estelle Harris
Mrs. Rachlin
Bellina Logan
Gail Carradine
Chandra Wilson
Serena Price
Rosemary Murphy
Mrs. Catherine Messimer
Edie Falco
Sally Bell
Suzanne Cryer
Sandy
Adam Busch
Mark
Miriam Colon
Mrs. Anna Rivers
James McDaniel
Michael Ingrams
Allan Arbus
Dominick Keith
Jacqueline Brookes
Trial Judge Grace Larkin
Lynne Thigpen
Judge Ida Boucher
Viveca Lindfors
Helga Holtz
Helen Gallagher
Flo Bishop
John Capodice
Bernie
Samuel L. Jackson
Attorney Louis Taggert
Tichina Arnold
Leona
Matthew Cowles
Christian 'Lemonhead' Tatum
Brian Reddy
McBride
Tom Kane
Garage Clerk
Kevin Cooney
Geoffrey Donovan
Jan Miner
Edna Hodge
Ted Marcoux
Brian
Victor Campos
Domingo Guerra
Mercedes López Renard
Julia Veloso
Ben Bass
Adam Vaughn
Lamman Rucker
Reggie Uggams
Aaron Lohr
John Brody
Alma Cuervo
Talia DeSalvo
Denise Dowse
Nora Glover
James Le Gros
Dwight Jacobs
John Newton
Eric Caffey
George Murdock
Judge Eric Bertram
Debargo Sanyal
Atul
Charles Cioffi
Frank Masucci
Tovah Feldshuh
Danielle Melnick
Gloria Foster
Satima Tate
Stephen McHattie
Joe Pilefsky
Cynthia Nixon
Laura Di Biasi
Brad Greenquist
Bartender
Thom Christopher
Alferandi Dilmanian , Dr. Bertram Stokes
Bjorn Johnson
CSU Policeman
Patti D'Arbanville
Betty Drake
Michael Tolan
Norman Ackerman
James Sutorius
Peter Colson
Barbara Barrie
Mrs. Bream
Erika Alexander
Doris Carver
Jonathan Hadary
Alex Petrovich
Frances Fisher
Susan Boyd
Rocky Carroll
Dr. Davids
Marita Geraghty
Rebecca Byrne
Paula Devicq
Miranda Shea
Keith Powell
Mike
Raymond J. Barry
Robert Dolan
Sophie Nyweide
Agatha Archer
Laurence Lau
Pancho Diamond
Candice Bergen
Judge Amanda Anderlee
Kamar de los Reyes
Aberto Moretti
Jeffrey D. Sams
Evan Grant
Patricia Clarkson
Laura Winthrop
Michael McKean
Bill Nolan , Elias Grace
Henderson Forsythe
Hamilton Stewart , Lucius Carpenter
Michelle Trachtenberg
Dinah Driscoll (uncredited)
Jake Weber
Wesley Parker
Roger Robinson
Dr. Ames
William Prince
Dwight Corcoran
Vanessa Marshall
Veronica
Lisa Nicole Carson
Jasmine
Yancy Butler
Beverly Kern
Michael Raynor
Acuff
Lynn Anderson
Woman #1
Jacqueline Lovell
Heather
John Doe
Teddy Connor
Roberta Wallach
Defense Attorney Michele Selig
Daniel Sunjata
Kenny Tremont
Robin Groves
Joanne Franklin
Nancy Marchand
Mrs. Barbara Ryder
Lewis Black
Director Franklin Frome
Elizabeth Lawrence
Miss Elsie Hatch
Isaiah Washington
Derek Hardy
Eugene Byrd
Tonel Otten
Laura Linney
Martha Bowen
J.D. Cannon
Chet Burton
John Finn
Freddo Parisi
Tracey Ellis
Nurse Miriam Gregg
Stephen Mailer
Greg Jarmon
Paul McCrane
James Lee Pawl
Jason Sklar
Barry Finneran
John Slattery
Dr. Richard Shipman , Arlen Levitt
Julia Pace Mitchell
E.R. Dr. Hass
Robin Mattson
Francine Landen
Jeffrey DeMunn
Norman Rothenberg
Kelli Williams
Maggie Corson
Mary Testa
Dilbeck
Bruce Norris
Steven Cleary
Nestor Carbonell
Stuart Carradine
Hynden Walch
Angel Monroe
Biff McGuire
Reverend Morley
Lori Alan
Martha
Malachi Throne
Judge Real
Caroline Lagerfelt
Danielle Keyes
Sarah Hyland
Kristine McLean
Scott Cohen
Eddie Newman
Chance Kelly
Kyle Marsden
Dan Bakkedahl
Tony Bicks
Pamela Dunlap
Judge Alice Crawford
Luis Antonio Ramos
Tommy Beltran
Daniel Hagen
EMS Tech Dixon
Judy Reyes
Maria Barragon
Clark Gregg
Patrick Dunne
Hudson Leick
Kathy Rogers
John Braden
Linford
Paul Bates
Ron Bergin
Addison Powell
Roger Auclair
Vanessa Williams
Vera
Anthony Alessandro
Carpetman
Timothy Landfield
Ron Weber
Derrick Simmons
Stabber (uncredited)
Bob Gunton
Gil Himes
Merlin Santana
Roneld Griggs
Brad Kane
Buzz Collins
Deborah White
Francine Hughes
Troy Winbush
Leon Jarvis
Claire Danes
Tracy Brandt
Paul Roebling
Dr. James Reberty
David Burke
Gary Burnham
Cheyenne Jackson
Jon Sorrentino
Mädchen Amick
Alissa Goodwyn
Zach Roerig
Rollerblade Messenger
Ritesh Rajan
Mustafa
Vincent Curatola
Court Clerk , Joey Dantoni Sr.
Lily Rabe
Andrea Wheaton
Kenny Johnston
Ryan Cutrona
David Dukes
David Moore
Susan Kellermann
Jeannie Stokes
Cynthia Harris
Gifford , Defense Attorney Adele Diamond
Camryn Manheim
Martha Rollins , Beatrice Hines , Leila , Kate Dixon
Julie Dretzin
Laura Bauer
Bernadette Penotti
Helena Navarro
Natalya Negoda
Irina Cooper
James Madio
Andy
Faran Tahir
Mr. Khan
Ed Lauter
Defense Counsel Glick
Noelle Beck
Stephanie Mulroney
Jane Alexander
Regina Mulroney
Christopher Meloni
Elliot Stabler
Mariska Hargitay
Olivia Benson
Richard Belzer
John Munch
Derek Richardson
Brad Wilder
Danny Johnson
Officer Earl Smith
Peter Hermann
Al Goran
Guillermo Díaz
Bobby Sabo , Juan Domingo
Dana Wheeler-Nicholson
Maggie Callister
Valerie Grace
Roger Bart
Alec Hughes
Alberta Watson
Angela Brandt , Miss Hanley
Steven Ogg
Mark Vee
Sebastian Roché
Ken Taylor , Clarence "C Square" Carmichael
Michael Winters
Defense Attorney Clayborn
Stephen Spinella
Andrew Polone
Rebecca Schull
Mrs. Whitman
Ruthie Henshall
P.K. Todd
Michael C. Williams
Jimmy Beltran
Jacob Pitts
John Telford
Missy Yager
Lisa Hallenbeck
Gary Galone
CSU Technician Robert Perry
Dylan Haggerty
Roger Glenn
Adepero Oduye
Traci Sands
Peter Francis James
John Laramie
Shayvawn Webster
Dani Vertiz
Aideen O'Kelly
Sister Kate
Jane White
Appellate Judge A. Green
Fatima Faloye
Keisha White
Dariush Kashani
Howard Spencer
Kate Wilkinson
Gray-Haired Lady
LeAnna Croom
Julianne Lowry
Paul Sparer
Dr. Edward Auster
William Carden
Arthur Tunney
Marion Killinger
Roland Kirk
Felix Fibich
Mr. Radsenhauer
Crew of Law & Order
Full backstage crew list →