45 Facts About Law & Order

The Origins of Law & Order

"Law & Order" is a legendary TV show that has captivated audiences for decades. Here are some fascinating facts about its origins and early days.

1. "Law & Order" premiered on September 13, 1990. The show was created by Dick Wolf and became one of the longest-running primetime dramas in television history.

2. The show was inspired by real-life crimes. Dick Wolf wanted to create a series that mirrored the complexity and unpredictability of real criminal cases.

3. The original title was "Night & Day." Before settling on "Law & Order," the show had a different working title that didn't quite capture its essence.

4. The iconic "dun-dun" sound was created by composer Mike Post. This sound effect has become synonymous with the series and is instantly recognizable.

5. The show was initially rejected by Fox. NBC picked it up after Fox passed on the pilot, and the rest is history.

The Cast and Characters

The cast of "Law & Order" has seen many changes over the years, but each actor brought something unique to the show.

6. Jerry Orbach played Detective Lennie Briscoe for 12 seasons. His character became one of the most beloved in the series.

7. Sam Waterston joined the cast in Season 5 as Jack McCoy. Waterston's portrayal of the tough prosecutor became a cornerstone of the show.

8. S. Epatha Merkerson played Lieutenant Anita Van Buren. She holds the record for the longest-running African-American character in a primetime drama.

9. Chris Noth was the original Detective Mike Logan. Noth's character was known for his intense and sometimes controversial methods.

10. Many actors appeared in multiple roles. Before landing main roles, several actors guest-starred in different episodes as various characters.

The Impact and Legacy

"Law & Order" has left an indelible mark on television and popular culture.

11. The show spawned several spin-offs. "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" is the most successful, still airing new episodes today.

12. It influenced real-life legal professionals. Many lawyers and detectives have cited the show as an inspiration for their careers.

13. The series won numerous awards. It received multiple Emmy nominations and wins, solidifying its place in TV history.

14. The show tackled controversial issues. Episodes often addressed hot-button topics like racism, corruption, and social justice.

15. It has a dedicated fan base. "Law & Order" conventions and fan clubs celebrate the show's enduring popularity.

Behind the Scenes

A lot goes on behind the scenes to bring "Law & Order" to life.

16. Episodes were filmed in New York City. The show used real locations to add authenticity to its storytelling.

17. The writers consulted with legal experts. This ensured that the legal procedures depicted were as accurate as possible.

18. The cast had to memorize complex legal jargon. Actors often had to deliver lengthy courtroom monologues with precision.

19. Episodes were often "ripped from the headlines." Writers drew inspiration from current events to create compelling storylines.

20. The show had a rigorous filming schedule. Cast and crew worked long hours to produce each episode.

Memorable Episodes

Certain episodes of "Law & Order" stand out for their impact and storytelling.

21. "Indifference" (Season 1, Episode 9) tackled child abuse. This episode is often cited as one of the most powerful in the series.

22. "Aftershock" (Season 6, Episode 23) dealt with the death penalty. It was the first episode to focus on the characters' personal lives.

23. "D-Girl" (Season 7, Episode 15) explored Hollywood's dark side. This episode featured a young Jennifer Garner in a guest role.

24. "Refuge" (Season 9, Episodes 23-24) was a two-part finale. It dealt with the Russian mob and was praised for its intense storytelling.

25. "Bodies" (Season 14, Episode 1) featured a serial killer. This episode is often remembered for its chilling portrayal of a remorseless murderer.

Fun Facts

Here are some lighter, fun facts about "Law & Order."

26. The show has a unique format. Each episode is divided into two parts: the investigation and the prosecution.

27. The opening narration is iconic. "In the criminal justice system, the people are represented by two separate yet equally important groups…"

28. The show has been parodied many times. "Saturday Night Live" and "The Simpsons" have both done memorable parodies.

29. The cast often improvised lines. This added a layer of realism to the dialogue.

30. The show featured many guest stars. Celebrities like Julia Roberts, Robin Williams, and Bradley Cooper appeared in various episodes.

Cultural References

"Law & Order" has permeated popular culture in many ways.

31. The show's format influenced other series. Many crime dramas adopted the dual-structure format.

32. It has been referenced in music. Artists like Jay-Z and Eminem have mentioned the show in their lyrics.

33. The series has been mentioned in books. Authors often reference "Law & Order" to add a layer of realism to their stories.

34. It inspired video games. Several "Law & Order" video games allow players to solve crimes and prosecute criminals.

35. The show has a strong online presence. Fans discuss episodes and theories on forums and social media.

The Enduring Popularity

Even after its original run, "Law & Order" continues to be popular.

36. Reruns air frequently. Channels like TNT and USA Network regularly broadcast old episodes.

37. It is available on streaming platforms. Services like Peacock and Hulu offer the series for binge-watching.

38. The show has international versions. Countries like the UK and Russia have their own adaptations of "Law & Order."

39. It remains a topic of academic study. Scholars analyze the show's impact on law, media, and society.

40. The series has a lasting legacy. "Law & Order" paved the way for other crime dramas and continues to influence new shows.

Trivia and Easter Eggs

For the hardcore fans, here are some lesser-known trivia and Easter eggs.

41. The show used real NYPD officers as extras. This added authenticity to the police scenes.

42. The courtroom scenes were filmed on a set. Despite the realistic look, these scenes were shot in a studio.

43. The show had a strict no-nonsense policy. Actors were expected to stay in character and deliver their lines with seriousness.

44. The series finale aired on May 24, 2010. After 20 seasons, the show concluded with a memorable episode.

45. The show is still relevant today. "Law & Order" continues to be a benchmark for quality crime drama.

The Legacy of Law & Order

"Law & Order" has left an indelible mark on television history. Its unique blend of gripping legal drama and compelling police procedural has captivated audiences for decades. The show's iconic "dun-dun" sound, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking storylines have set a high bar for crime dramas.

From its impressive run of 20 seasons to its numerous spin-offs, "Law & Order" has become a cultural phenomenon. It has not only entertained but also sparked conversations about justice, ethics, and the complexities of the legal system.

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, there's no denying the impact "Law & Order" has had on TV and popular culture. Its legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of viewers and creators alike.