Veteran Actress S. Epatha Merkerson Celebrates 625 Episodes with Dick Wolf

Veteran actress S. Epatha Merkerson has achieved a remarkable milestone, appearing in 625 episodes of television produced by acclaimed producer Dick Wolf. This tally includes her role in the recent 200th episode of the NBC medical drama Chicago Med, which she celebrated with her longtime collaborator Wolf and co-star Oliver Platt.

Merkerson and Platt are the two remaining original series regulars on Chicago Med, which premiered in 2015. Merkerson's extensive history with Wolf's productions also includes roles in his earlier shows like Mann & Machine, South Beach, and the Law & Order franchise. According to Wolf, Merkerson is "one of the best actors" he has ever worked with, praising her talent and commitment.

Merkerson attributes her enduring partnership with Wolf to his unwavering loyalty, a rare quality in the entertainment industry. "When you come in and do the gig, and you come in and know your stuff, he continues using people through all his shows. He appreciates their work, their honesty," she revealed. This mutual trust and respect have allowed Merkerson and Wolf to collaborate successfully for decades.

The 200th episode of Chicago Med also marked a special reunion for Merkerson, as she shared the screen with former co-stars Nick Gehlfuss and Torrey DeVitto, who departed the show in recent seasons. Merkerson fondly described them as "really, really great people" and "focused and committed" actors, with whom she has maintained lasting friendships.