The original Law & Order series concluded its initial run with the episode “America, Inc.” (Season 20, Episode 23) on May 24, 2010. This was, for years, considered the series finale until the show’s momentous revival.
The End of an Era: Reflecting on “America, Inc.”
“America, Inc.” brought the iconic series to what many believed was its final curtain call after two decades of captivating audiences with its signature ripped-from-the-headlines storylines. The episode centers on the murder of a prominent businessman suspected of using his charitable foundation as a front for illegal activities. Detectives Lupo (Jeremy Sisto) and Bernard (Anthony Anderson) investigate, navigating a complex web of corporate intrigue and political maneuvering. The legal side of the story sees A.D.A. Michael Cutter (Linus Roache) and Executive A.D.A. Jack McCoy (Sam Waterston) attempting to prosecute a powerful and well-connected defendant, encountering significant obstacles and moral dilemmas along the way.
The episode itself, while engaging and typical of the series’ high standards, didn’t explicitly suggest finality. There were no major character departures or plotlines deliberately wrapped up to signal the show’s conclusion. Its cancellation came as a surprise to many, especially given its consistently solid ratings. This abrupt ending left fans with a sense of incompleteness and sparked years of speculation about a potential revival.
The absence of closure in “America, Inc.” is perhaps its most notable feature in retrospect. It serves as a testament to Law & Order’s enduring format – procedural drama focusing on individual cases rather than overarching character arcs. While disappointing at the time, this characteristic ultimately made the show highly amenable to a later revival.
The Revival: A New Chapter Begins
Fast forward to 2022, and Law & Order made a triumphant return for Season 21. While “America, Inc.” remains the last episode of the initial run, it is no longer the de facto series finale. This remarkable resurrection showcased the enduring appeal of the franchise and its continued relevance in contemporary society.
The revival saw the return of some familiar faces, including Sam Waterston as Jack McCoy, now the District Attorney. New characters were also introduced, injecting fresh perspectives and dynamics into the well-established formula. The revived series has continued to tackle topical and controversial issues, staying true to the Law & Order tradition while adapting to a modern landscape.
The success of the revival proves that the themes explored in Law & Order – justice, morality, and the complexities of the legal system – are timeless and continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. It also demonstrates the power of nostalgia and the enduring appeal of well-crafted procedural dramas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the specific date that “America, Inc.” aired?
The episode “America, Inc.” (Season 20, Episode 23) aired on May 24, 2010. This date marks the original conclusion of the Law & Order series before its revival.
Who directed “America, Inc.”?
“America, Inc.” was directed by René Balcer. Balcer is a veteran of the Law & Order franchise, having served as a writer, producer, and director on numerous episodes throughout its original run.
Who wrote “America, Inc.”?
The episode “America, Inc.” was written by René Balcer and Ed Zuckerman. Their combined experience and understanding of the Law & Order universe contributed to the episode’s complex and thought-provoking narrative.
Why was Law & Order cancelled after Season 20?
The cancellation stemmed from a complex combination of factors, including declining ratings (though still respectable), high production costs, and challenges in securing licensing agreements. NBC reportedly had difficulty reaching a deal with the show’s production company, Universal Media Studios (now NBCUniversal Television Studio).
Was “America, Inc.” intended to be the series finale?
No, “America, Inc.” was not written or produced as a series finale. The cancellation came relatively late in the season, and there was no time to craft a specific episode that would serve as a definitive conclusion to the series. This is why it feels like a standard Law & Order episode rather than a farewell.
What were the main criticisms of Season 20?
Some critics argued that Season 20, while still maintaining a certain level of quality, had become somewhat formulaic and predictable. There were also criticisms regarding the perceived lack of character development and the repetitive nature of certain storylines.
Did any actors from the original cast refuse to return for the revival?
While many original cast members were considered for the revival, not all were able to return. Scheduling conflicts and other commitments prevented some actors from participating in the new season. Specific reasons for each individual’s absence vary.
How does the revival series compare to the original in terms of ratings?
The revival series has performed respectably in terms of ratings, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the Law & Order brand. While it may not have reached the peak viewership numbers of its early seasons, it has proven to be a successful and viable addition to NBC’s primetime lineup.
What makes Law & Order such a compelling and enduring franchise?
The franchise’s enduring appeal lies in its realistic portrayal of the criminal justice system, its focus on compelling and relevant storylines, and its consistent quality of writing and acting. The “ripped-from-the-headlines” format allows the show to explore topical issues and spark important conversations about morality, justice, and the complexities of society.
Is there any chance of further Law & Order spinoffs or revivals in the future?
Given the success of the Law & Order revival, the possibility of further spinoffs or revivals remains open. NBCUniversal has demonstrated a willingness to invest in the franchise, and new iterations could explore different aspects of the legal system or focus on specific types of crimes. The future of the Law & Order universe remains a topic of speculation and anticipation.
How has the Law & Order franchise influenced other crime dramas?
Law & Order has had a profound influence on the landscape of crime dramas, pioneering the procedural format and establishing a template that many other shows have followed. Its emphasis on realism, its focus on legal procedure, and its “ripped-from-the-headlines” approach have all been widely imitated. The franchise has also spawned numerous spinoffs, further solidifying its legacy as a dominant force in the television industry.
Where can I watch “America, Inc.” and other episodes of Law & Order?
Episodes of Law & Order, including “America, Inc.,” are generally available for streaming on platforms such as Peacock, Hulu (with live TV), and other streaming services that offer access to NBC content. They may also be available for purchase or rental on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes. Availability may vary depending on your region.