Law & Order Cast A Look at the Iconic Characters

The Original Series

The original Law & Order series, which ran from 1990 to 2010, introduced audiences to a cast of unforgettable characters. At the heart of the series was the partnership between Executive Assistant District Attorney (ADA) Jack McCoy (Sam Waterston) and Detective Elliot Stabler (Christopher Meloni). McCoy, a seasoned prosecutor, was known for his sharp wit and relentless pursuit of justice. Stabler, a hardened detective, brought a more emotional and streetwise perspective to the cases.

The ADA Team

The ADA team was a revolving door of talented attorneys who worked alongside McCoy. Notable ADAs included Claire Kincaid (Jill Hennessy), who brought a fresh perspective to the team and eventually became McCoy’s love interest. Other notable ADAs included Serena Southerlyn (Elisabeth Rohm), Abbie Carmichael (Angie Harmon), and Kevin Tatum (Anthony Anderson).

The Detective Squad

The Detective Squad, led by Lieutenant Anita Van Buren (Dann Florek), was responsible for investigating the crimes that were prosecuted by the ADA team. The squad included a variety of detectives, each with their own unique personalities and strengths. Detective Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) was a standout character, known for her compassion and dedication to victims of sexual assault. Other notable detectives included Fin Tutuola (Ice-T), Munch (Richard Belzer), and Lennie Briscoe (Jerry Orbach).

The Medical Examiner

Dr. Elizabeth Rodgers (Tamara Tunie) was the medical examiner for the series, providing crucial evidence in many of the cases. Her expertise and calm demeanor were invaluable to the team.

The Judge

Judge Charles Martelli (Michael Nouri) was the presiding judge in many of the trials featured in the series. His fair and impartial rulings were essential to the justice system.

Spin-offs

The success of Law & Order led to the creation of several spin-offs. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU) focused on the detectives of the Special Victims Unit, who investigated crimes of sexual assault and child abuse. Law & Order: Criminal Intent followed the Major Case Squad, a team of detectives who investigated complex crimes. Law & Order: Trial by Jury focused on the legal proceedings of a trial, from jury selection to the verdict.

Legacy

Law & Order has had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring countless other crime dramas. The series’ focus on the legal system and the complex issues surrounding justice has made it a timeless classic. The iconic characters and memorable storylines have captivated audiences for decades, and their legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.