Happy birthday! Sam Waterston turns 85 today

By Lori Macatee
Washington
Last updated on November 15, 2025

The iconic and legendary actor turns 85 on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025.

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Sam Waterston is celebrating his 85th birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, he is one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation.

Popular actor-producer-director Sam Waterston (Law & Order, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of himself hidden from view. At 85th birthday, he remains a man of many facets.

Waterston, a cultural icon

Born Samuel Atkinson Waterston in Cambridge on November 15, 1940, his career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in American history. Waterston's not just a great actor, he's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business man. At this point in his career, there seems to be little Sam hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Sam Waterston as he promises more to come. After all, he's only 85.

Happy Birthday, Sam, you're the best!