Greetings,
This post might be rather short. Very short. Why? Well, this "main character who got his name AND picture in the opening credits" was only that for four episodes. Okay, he also came back a season later for another, but it doesn't count. So here's a question: What the heck was up with Nick Falco?
Nick Falco was portrayed by Michael Imperioli for the tail end of Season 15 as a temporary replacement for Detective Green who got shot/Jesse L. Martin who was filming Rent. And that, apparently, warranted him a "starring" role. I am convinced that Dick Wolf called in a favor so that he wouldn't have to get a relatively unknown actor to temp for him. Although, that is exactly what he did when Eames went off to have a baby on Criminal Intent, but I digress.
Okay, what do I know about Nick Falco? Not much. He had two kids, bit of a loose cannon cop but not too much, and he was studying to become a lawyer. I guess if we want to count that extra fifth episode when he was no longer a main character, I can tell you about him being investigated for the murder of a woman who was found dead in his apartment. He was desperate to help with his own investigation to prove his innocence, which they did not allow. So, to be clear, we are not living by the philosophy of The Ministry in The Avengers ('98, BTW). Of course, he didn't listen much and almost wrecked the whole thing. As you do. And that's about all I know about Falco.
Look, as far as I know, most people were not fond of this character. I don't know how one forms an opinion based on such a short run. To me, he was just a guy who was there until Green came back. I didn't dislike him, but I also had to opportunity to get to know. But I will credit where it's dues, as always. Michael Imperioli is a fine actor, and he did a fine job with what he was given. So, I'll end this by saying "Thank you" to Mr. Imperioli. He stepped in when he was needed and did a nice thing so Law & Order could continue. Good man.
Love and full moons,
Becky the Writer
