Camryn Manheim Bids Farewell to 'Law and Order' After Season 23

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Will Hart/NBC

Camryn Manheim, who plays Lieutenant Kate Dixon on Law & Order, will be leaving the show after the season 23 finale. The 63-year-old actress joined the cast when the series was revived by NBC in 2021. Her final episode will be the season finale airing on May 16th, marking her 48th appearance on the show.

Dick Wolf expressed his gratitude to Camryn for her valuable contribution to the relaunch of Law & Order. He praised her as a class act and wished her well in her future endeavors.

Although Manheim gained recognition for her role as Dixon, the commanding officer of the Manhattan North Homicide Squad, it was not her initial character in the franchise. She made a guest appearance in the show's first season in 1991 and later returned to play different roles in 1993 and 1994.

Manheim expressed her gratitude for her time in the Law & Order Universe and the Wolfpack on Instagram. She cherished the three seasons spent with the talented cast, including Mehcad Brooks, Reid Scott, Connie Shi, Anthony Anderson, Jeffrey Donovan, Hugh Dancy, Odelya Halevi, Tony Goldwyn, and Sam Waterston. She also appreciated the guest stars who brought their magic to the show.

Following Waterston's departure after 405 episodes as District Attorney Jack McCoy, Goldwyn took over the role of new DA Nick Baxter. Waterston's final appearance was in February, and Goldwyn has since stepped in to continue the legacy.

Law and Order’ Star Camryn Manheim to Leave Show After Season 23 Finale 002

Virginia Sherwood /NBC

Hey there, amazing people! I'm thrilled to have this direct chat with the incredible Law & Order audience," shared Waterston, who is 83 years old, with The Hollywood Reporter when he decided to leave. "It's time for me to move on, taking Jack McCoy along. While it's sad to say goodbye, I'm excited about what lies ahead. As an actor, it's important to stay curious and not get too comfortable. I truly appreciate all of your support."

Following Donovan's departure as Detective Frank Cosgrove last season, Manheim and Waterston also bid farewell to the show. In season 21, Anderson left as well, and his character was taken over by Brooks.

When Manheim first joined the cast as a series regular during Law & Order's revival, she took over the role previously held by S. Epatha Merkerson. Merkerson, who is now 71 years old, portrayed Lieutenant Anita Van Buren from 1993 to 2010 before the show was initially canceled.

Law & Order has been confirmed for a 24th season following a significant 56 percent increase in viewership compared to season 22.

Editor's P/S:

The departure of Camryn Manheim from "Law & Order" marks a significant change for the long-running series. Her portrayal of Lieutenant Kate Dixon brought a strong and commanding presence to the Manhattan North Homicide Squad. Manheim's exit follows the recent departures of other veteran cast members, including Sam Waterston and Jeffrey Donovan, as the show undergoes a transition to a new era. While it is always bittersweet to see beloved characters leave, it also creates opportunities for fresh perspectives and storylines.

The continuing success of "Law & Order" is a testament to its ability to adapt and evolve while maintaining its core elements. The show's focus on complex and timely legal cases, along with its talented ensemble cast, has kept viewers engaged for decades. As the series moves forward, it will be interesting to see how the new cast members shape the dynamics of the show and continue to deliver the compelling storytelling that has made "Law & Order" a television icon.