Fans of Law & Order finally know when the series will return, and it’s much sooner than expected. When exactly can we watch Law & Order Season 23?
Like all network shows, Law & Order has been hit hard by the combined WGA and SAG strikes over the summer. They were finally settled but not in time for any new episodes until 2024. That will force the series to have a curtailed Season 23 order.
It generally takes three to six weeks of pre-production work for an episode of a network drama. While Law & Order is known for a fast turnaround time, that still leaves it tricky for when they can begin filming as it’s likely not to start until late November.
There is a complication in that Jeffrey Donovan is confirmed as leaving the series. That means the show has to find a replacement for his Frank Cosgrove character, which needs to happen fast.
So when does Law & Order Season 23 air on NBC?
When does Law & Order Season 23 premiere on NBC?
As part of their announcement of the revised winter 2024 schedule, NBC confirmed Law & Order Season 23 premieres on Thursday, Jan. 18. As usual, it’s at 8/7c, followed by Law & Order: SVU and Law & Order: Organized Crime.
This early date is a bit surprising as ABC and CBS aren’t expected to return with new episodes of their series until mid-February. That allows NBC to get a major jump with new content.
However, this means production may be underway faster than expected to prepare for the new date. That includes having to cast a replacement for Donovan, with NBC still not making an announcement on that. It’s also unsure if the earlier start time means the series will have more episodes than expected for the season.
For now, fans know Law & Order will be back for another big season in January to continue its run as an iconic show.
Law & Order Season 23 premieres on Thursday, Jan. 18 at 8/7c on NBC.