Janice R. Andrews
The Season 24 premiere of Law & Order finally provided an explanation for Camryn Manheim’s exit from the series. In “Catch and Kill,” viewers learned that Lieutenant Kate Dixon, Manheim’s character, had relocated to Miami with her deaf son Patrick (James Caverly). This off-screen development was revealed through a text message read by Junior Detective Vincent Riley (Reid Scott), stating that Patrick had landed a job at a Miami school and Dixon had chosen to join him without fanfare.
Manheim joined the cast when the show was revived in 2022 for its 21st season, following its initial 20-season run. Her departure, announced in May, came as a surprise to fans who saw no hints of it in the Season 23 finale. Jessica Brady, portrayed by Maura Tierney, steps in as the new leader of the Manhattan North Homicide Squad.
Dick Wolf, the show’s creator, expressed appreciation for Manheim’s role in relaunching the series. Her exit follows that of Sam Waterston, who earlier left his long-standing role as District Attorney Jack McCoy.
After three seasons, Manheim’s departure marks the end of an era, leaving fans to reflect on her contributions while adapting to the changes in the Manhattan precinct.
