In a surprising turn for fans of the long-running crime drama, Law & Order is moving forward without Jeffrey Donovan, who will not return for Season 23. Donovan, who played Detective Frank Cosgrove, became one of the central figures in the show’s recent revival, embodying the classic spirit of Law & Order while giving it a modern edge. His sudden exit leaves viewers both disappointed and curious about what this means for the future of the iconic NBC series.

Jeffrey Donovan joined Law & Order when the show was revived in 2022 after more than a decade off the air. From his first appearance, he seemed tailor-made for the role of Frank Cosgrove — a streetwise, old-school detective with sharp instincts and a moral compass shaped by years on the job. Cosgrove was the type of cop who didn’t sugarcoat the truth, and Donovan’s performance brought back the grounded intensity that longtime fans missed from the early years of the series.

Over two seasons, Donovan’s character became a cornerstone of the show’s new era. Paired with Detective Jalen Shaw, played by Mehcad Brooks, Cosgrove formed one of the most compelling partnerships in the franchise. Their chemistry was built on contrast: Cosgrove’s traditional, gut-driven policing style clashing with Shaw’s thoughtful, socially aware approach. This dynamic gave the series fresh energy, exploring the generational and cultural shifts within law enforcement while staying true to the show’s roots.

Frank Cosgrove was more than just another detective on the beat — he was a bridge between the old and new Law & Order. His character reflected the tension between doing what’s right and doing what’s lawful, a conflict that has always defined the series. Whether he was interrogating a suspect or debating ethical gray areas, Donovan brought a subtle vulnerability to Cosgrove that made him human, not just heroic. His presence grounded the show, giving it emotional weight and authenticity.

Now that Donovan is stepping away, Law & Order finds itself at another crossroads. The franchise is no stranger to cast changes — over the decades, it has seen legendary exits, from Jerry Orbach’s beloved Lennie Briscoe to Benjamin Bratt’s Rey Curtis and countless others. Yet, Donovan’s departure feels particularly significant because he helped solidify the tone of the revival. Without him, the show will need to recalibrate its balance of grit, heart, and social commentary.

It’s unclear how the writers plan to address Detective Cosgrove’s absence in Season 23. Law & Order has often handled departures quietly, sometimes with a passing line about a character’s transfer or retirement. However, given how integral Cosgrove was to recent storylines, fans hope the show will give him a proper farewell — something that honors his character’s complexity and Donovan’s strong contribution to the series.

Donovan’s exit also sparks speculation about who might step into the detective lineup next. The franchise has a long history of introducing memorable replacements who bring their own energy and perspective. A new partner for Detective Shaw could offer another chance to explore modern themes, fresh conflicts, and the evolving face of justice in today’s world. But replacing Cosgrove’s presence — his raw instinct, moral weight, and quiet gravitas — won’t be easy.

Beyond the cast shake-up, Law & Order remains one of television’s most resilient franchises. Its enduring formula — “the police who investigate crime and the district attorneys who prosecute the offenders” — has carried it through decades of change. The show’s power lies in its ability to reflect society while delivering tightly written procedural drama. Even as cast members come and go, Law & Order continues to evolve with the times, staying relevant while preserving its signature rhythm.

Still, Donovan’s absence will undoubtedly leave a void. His portrayal of Frank Cosgrove captured something special — a reminder of the show’s origins, when detectives were flawed but fiercely committed to justice. He gave the series a dose of realism that anchored its modern revival. Viewers connected with his grit and integrity, making him one of the standout characters in recent seasons.

As Law & Order heads into Season 23, the departure of Jeffrey Donovan marks both an ending and an opportunity. It closes the chapter on one of the revival’s strongest figures while opening the door for new characters and new stories. For fans who appreciated Donovan’s layered portrayal, his absence will be felt — but as the series has proven time and again, change is part of its DNA.

Even without Frank Cosgrove on the force, Law & Order will continue to ask the same timeless questions about truth, justice, and morality — the very essence of why audiences keep tuning in after more than three decades.