S. Epatha Merkerson: 7 Shocking Facts About The Law & Order Veteran And Chicago Med's Unstoppable Star

S. Epatha Merkerson remains one of the most recognizable and respected figures on television today, with a career spanning decades that has cemented her status as a true acting legend. As of December 2025, she continues to anchor the popular *One Chicago* universe as the formidable Sharon Goodwin on NBC’s *Chicago Med*, a role that keeps her firmly in the public eye after her iconic 17-year run on *Law & Order*. The veteran actress is not only celebrated for her work on screen but also for her significant philanthropic efforts, including a massive recent donation, proving her impact extends far beyond the soundstage. This article dives deep into the latest news, her incredible career milestones, and the surprising details that define the life of this award-winning performer.

S. Epatha Merkerson: Full Biography and Career Profile

The actress known professionally as S. Epatha Merkerson has an extensive and decorated career in film, television, and theater. Her commitment to her craft has earned her the coveted "Triple Crown of Acting" nominations, an honor few performers achieve.

• Full Birth Name: Sharon Epatha Merkerson
• Date of Birth: November 28, 1952
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 73
• Birthplace: Saginaw, Michigan, United States
• Alma Mater: Wayne State University (B.F.A.)
• Primary Profession: Actress, Director, Soundtrack
• Notable TV Roles: Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on *Law & Order* (1993–2010); Sharon Goodwin on *Chicago Med* (2015–Present)
• Major Awards Won: Emmy Award, Golden Globe Award, Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award, Obie Award, four NAACP Image Awards.
• Major Nominations: Two Tony Award nominations (for *The Piano Lesson* and *Come Back, Little Sheba*).

The Latest News: Philanthropy and the One Chicago Universe

Unlike many celebrities whose recent news is focused solely on their next project, S. Epatha Merkerson has made headlines for a powerful act of generosity and her continued dominance in the medical drama genre.

1. The $1 Million Donation That Shocked Hollywood

One of the most significant and inspiring pieces of news about Merkerson in late 2024 and early 2025 was her monumental $1 million donation to Talladega College, a historically Black college and university (HBCU). She made the pledge during her commencement address at the college, underscoring her commitment to education and supporting Black institutions. This act of philanthropy is a powerful affirmation of her values and serves as a major highlight of her current activities, setting a powerful example for other high-profile figures.

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2. The Unstoppable Force of Sharon Goodwin on Chicago Med

Merkerson continues to be a central figure in the Dick Wolf-produced *One Chicago* franchise, portraying the highly respected Director of Patient and Medical Services, Sharon Goodwin, on *Chicago Med*. Her character is known for her moral compass, administrative strength, and constant battles with hospital bureaucracy, making her a fan favorite. As of late 2025, she has been actively teasing the storylines and character arcs for the upcoming Season 11 of the show, indicating her long-term commitment to the role and the ongoing success of the medical drama.

3. The Record-Breaking Law & Order Legacy

Before becoming the heart of *Chicago Med*, Merkerson was best known as Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on the original *Law & Order*. Her tenure on the police procedural drama lasted from 1993 to 2010, totaling 395 episodes. This run made her the longest-serving cast member in the history of the show, a record that speaks to her consistency and enduring appeal. The role of Van Buren is a foundational entity in the procedural drama genre, and Merkerson’s performance is often cited as a masterclass in character acting.

Beyond the Badge: Lesser-Known Career Milestones

While television made her a household name, Merkerson’s career is deeply rooted in theater and critically acclaimed film work, showcasing her versatility.

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4. The Award-Winning Performance in Lackawanna Blues

In 2006, Merkerson achieved a rare feat by winning an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award for her powerful performance in the HBO film *Lackawanna Blues*. She played the central character, Rachel "Nanny" Crosby, a role that brought her widespread critical acclaim outside of her television work.

5. Her Unexpected Role in a Sci-Fi Classic

Long before her time on the Dick Wolf television empire, Merkerson had a small but memorable role in one of the biggest action-sci-fi films of all time: *Terminator 2: Judgment Day* (1991). She played Tarissa Dyson, the wife of Miles Dyson, the Cyberdyne Systems engineer responsible for creating Skynet. This early film credit is a fascinating entity in her diverse filmography.

6. The Deep Roots in Broadway and Off-Broadway Theater

Merkerson is an accomplished stage actress whose career began in the theater, a background that sharpens her dramatic skills on screen. She has received two prestigious Tony Award nominations for her work on Broadway, specifically for the August Wilson play *The Piano Lesson* and the William Inge play *Come Back, Little Sheba*. Her stage work, including numerous Obie Awards for Off-Broadway performances, highlights her dedication to the craft and her status as a respected theater veteran.

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7. What Does the 'S' Stand For?

A common question among fans is the meaning of the initial 'S' in her professional name. The 'S' stands for her first name, Sharon. She is known to pronounce her middle name, Epatha, as "ee-PAY-thuh," a detail that reflects the unique identity she has cultivated throughout her career.