S. Epatha Merkerson
Actor
About S. Epatha Merkerson
S. Epatha Merkerson is an accomplished American actress whose career spans theater, television, and film. Born in Saginaw, Michigan, she developed a passion for performing arts while studying at Michigan State University and later at the University of Michigan. Her breakthrough came with her long-running role as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on NBC's 'Law & Order,' which she portrayed for 17 seasons, making her one of television's most enduring dramatic characters. Merkerson has also made significant contributions to theater, earning critical acclaim for her work on Broadway. Her performance in the HBO film 'Lackawanna Blues' earned her an Emmy Award, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award, showcasing her versatility beyond procedural drama. Throughout her career, she has advocated for greater diversity in entertainment and has been involved in various charitable causes, particularly those related to cancer awareness after her own battle with the disease.
The Craft
On Screen
Known for her naturalistic, grounded performances that blend emotional depth with authentic character portrayal. Merkerson brings a commanding presence to her roles, particularly as authority figures, while maintaining a relatable humanity. Her approach emphasizes subtle nuance and psychological realism, allowing her to convey complex emotions through minimal gestures and expressions.
Milestones
- Longest-running cast member on Law & Order (17 seasons)
- Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG Award winner for Lackawanna Blues
- Broadway performances in 'The Piano Lesson' and 'Come Back, Little Sheba'
- Documentary work including We Heard the Bells: The Influenza of 1918
- Advocacy for cancer awareness and diversity in entertainment
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie (2006)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Miniseries or Television Film (2006)
- Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries (2006)
- Gracie Award for Outstanding Female Lead in a Drama Series (2008)
Nominated
- NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series (multiple nominations)
- Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (multiple nominations)
Special Recognition
- Michigan Women's Hall of Fame inductee (2011)
- Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts from University of Michigan (2012)
- Distinguished Alumni Award from Michigan State University
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
S. Epatha Merkerson has significantly impacted television through her portrayal of Lieutenant Van Buren, one of the few African American women in long-term leadership roles on network television. Her character broke stereotypes and provided representation for women of color in positions of authority, influencing how such roles were written and cast in subsequent television series. Her advocacy work and openness about her health challenges have also made her an influential voice in public health awareness.
Lasting Legacy
Merkerson's legacy includes pioneering representation of African American women in television leadership roles, excellence in both dramatic and documentary performance, and bridging the gap between theater, television, and film. Her 17-year tenure on Law & Order set a standard for character development and continuity in ensemble television dramas, while her award-winning work in Lackawanna Blues demonstrated the power of bringing theater-trained depth to television performances.
Who They Inspired
Merkerson has influenced a generation of actors, particularly women of color, by demonstrating the possibility of sustained success in mainstream television while maintaining artistic integrity. Her approach to character work, combining technical precision with emotional authenticity, has become a model for actors transitioning between stage and screen. Her advocacy for diversity and health awareness has also inspired industry professionals to use their platforms for social impact.
Off Screen
Merkerson has been married twice. Her first marriage was to Toussaint L. Jones from 1994 to 2005. In 2017, she married her second husband, Robert Williams. She has been open about her battle with lung cancer, having been diagnosed in 2014 and becoming a vocal advocate for cancer awareness and early detection. She has no biological children but has been a mentor to many young performers throughout her career.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Speech from Michigan State University, Master of Fine Arts from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, additional studies at University of Michigan and Circle in the Square Theatre School
Family
- Toussaint L. Jones (1994-2005)
- Robert Williams (2017-present)
Did You Know?
- Her first name 'Epatha' was inspired by a character in a novel her mother was reading
- She was a substitute teacher before pursuing acting full-time
- She is a breast cancer survivor and became an advocate for early detection
- She has appeared in over 300 episodes of Law & Order, more than any other cast member
- She originally auditioned for a different role on Law & Order before being cast as Van Buren
- She is a classically trained theater actress with extensive Broadway experience
- She has served as a guest lecturer at various universities
- She is an accomplished singer and has performed in musical theater productions
- She was the first African American woman to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame specifically for television work
- She has directed episodes of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
In Their Own Words
Playing Lieutenant Van Buren for 17 years was like having a second family. We grew together, we learned together, and we created something special that touched millions of lives.
Cancer taught me that every moment is precious. I use my platform to encourage others to get checked early because early detection saves lives.
As an actor, my job is to find the truth in every character, whether it's a police lieutenant, a grieving mother, or a historical figure in a documentary.
Representation matters. When young people see someone who looks like them in positions of power and respect, it expands their sense of what's possible.
Theater will always be my first love. It's where I learned the craft that has served me in every medium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is S. Epatha Merkerson?
S. Epatha Merkerson is an accomplished American actress best known for her 17-year role as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on NBC's Law & Order. She has won multiple Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Awards and has had a distinguished career in theater, television, and film since the 1980s.
What films and shows is S. Epatha Merkerson best known for?
She is most famous for Law & Order (1993-2010), the HBO film Lackawanna Blues (2005), and her Broadway work in The Piano Lesson. She has also appeared in films like Radio, Jacob's Ladder, and the documentary We Heard the Bells: The Influenza of 1918.
When was S. Epatha Merkerson born?
S. Epatha Merkerson was born on November 28, 1952, in Saginaw, Michigan. She is still alive and continues to work in entertainment.
What major awards has S. Epatha Merkerson won?
She won an Emmy Award, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award for her performance in Lackawanna Blues. She has also received multiple NAACP Image Award nominations and a Gracie Award for her work on Law & Order.
What is S. Epatha Merkerson's acting style?
Merkerson is known for her naturalistic, grounded performances that blend emotional depth with authentic character portrayal. She brings a commanding presence to authority figures while maintaining relatable humanity, using subtle nuance and psychological realism to convey complex emotions.
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Films
1 film
