Jeffrey Donovan Opts Out of Season 23 of ‘Law and Order’
Jeffrey Donovan bids farewell to 'Law and Order' as Detective Frank Cosgrove, leaving fans eagerly awaiting season 23 without his captivating presence
Jeffrey Donovan has officially resigned from his role in Law & Order, which has been confirmed. The renowned 55-year-old actor will not be reprising his character for season 23 of the popular legal drama. TVLine, the initial source to report this news, stated on November 15 that Donovan's departure was due to creative factors. (We have contacted NBC and Donovan's representatives for additional comments.)
Donovan took on the role of Detective Frank Cosgrove on Law & Order in 2022, marking the show's return in its 21st season after being canceled in 2010. He continued to portray the character in season 22, which aired later that same year.
In a February 2022 interview with StageRightSecrets, Donovan expressed his enthusiasm for the show's comeback. "I'm thrilled that Law & Order is back," he stated. "It's been a long wait, but I'm excited. I actually watched all 20 seasons, no joke."
Donovan became a part of the television franchise in the previous year, alongside new recruits Camryn Manheim, Hugh Dancy, and Odelya Halevi. Moreover, Anthony Anderson and Sam Waterston reprised their roles from the original series as Kevin Bernard and Jack McCoy, respectively.
Jeffrey Donovan, who plays Det. Frank Cosgrove on 'Law & Order,' has a propensity for asking numerous questions, according to Anderson. In an interview with StageRightSecrets in February 2022, Anderson revealed that Donovan's curiosity often delays scene progression. Anderson remarked, "As a detective, the purpose of your queries, Jeffrey, is simply to ascertain the whereabouts of the individual on Tuesday at 3:30. It's as straightforward as that."
Anderson exited the show in season 21, being replaced by Mehcad Brooks in season 22 as Detective Jalen Shaw, Frank's new partner. Speaking about Anderson's departure, Donovan shared his gratitude for the buzz created by Anderson and how it has drawn attention to the first season, saying, "I will miss Anthony, as will many on the cast and crew, but he is in charge of his own destiny. His notoriety has certainly attracted attention, as people on the streets of New York yell, 'Anthony! Anthony and the other guy from Burn Notice!' So, I am very appreciative of that."
Jeffrey Donovan as Det. Frank Cosgrove on ‘Law & Order.’ Peter Kramer/NBC
Brooks, aged 43, eagerly accepted the responsibility that came with following in Anderson's footsteps.
"I've been a fan of Law & Order since I was young, so when I found out about the reboot, it sparked excitement within me," he shared with Screen Rant in September 2022. "At this stage of my career, I only want to pursue projects that truly resonate with me, that make me say, 'Hell yes!' And this was an immediate 'Hell yes!' Not only because of the show's legacy, which I've admired for a long time, but also because it presents a unique opportunity for me to contribute to the dialogue between the Black community and law enforcement."
TVLine has reported that a new cast member is currently being sought to fill the vacancy left by Donovan following the recent casting changes on the show.
The return of Law & Order is planned for 2024. The premiere date for season 23 has yet to be determined.
