The new NBC drama series will play March 3 in the 10-11 PM slot prior to its series premiere March 4 at 10 PM — where the show will regularly play Friday evenings. (All times ET. Check your local listings.)
"Law & Order: Trial by Jury" is the latest branch of the popular Dick Wolf series. The new show will explore the criminal justice system from the "point-of-view of the prosecutors and police but also from the perspective of the defense attorneys, defendants, judges and jurors," according to materials.
The late Broadway veteran actor Orbach had already filmed a number of episodes at the time of his recent death. NBC released a statement saying that the show will continue on without the late actor. "The producers are deeply saddened," read the statement. "While Jerry is irreplaceable, 'Law & Order: Trial by Jury' is an ensemble and will continue in production."
Orbach had appeared in at least three episodes already shot, which will air according to NBC. His role on "Trial by Jury" was catered so the veteran actor only worked a two day weekly schedule.
Tony Award winner and fellow stage stalwart Bebe Neuwirth is featured in the cast alongside Amy Carlson ("Third Watch") and Kirk Acevedo ("Band of Brothers"). Orbach reprised his role from the original drama — which he played for 12 seasons — as Detective Lennie Briscoe with co-star Fred Dalton Thompson, reprising his "Law & Order" role as Manhattan District Attorney Arthur Branch.