SVU Renewed for Season 27
Excitement surged in 2025 as NBC renewed Law & Order: SVU for its 27th season, set for fall, with Hargitay sharing her thrill on Instagram: 'Here’s to season 27!! WHAAA??? #CHEERS🥂 LFG!' Fans flooded comments with joy, celebrating the show's enduring legacy since 1999.
This renewal highlights SVU's massive fanbase and cultural hook, dealing with real issues that resonate deeply. Hargitay noted at the 2025 Emmys that the show thrives as long as she wants, marking the franchise's 35th anniversary.
Despite cast changes like departures of Juliana Martinez and Octavio Pisano due to budget cuts, anticipation builds for new twists under female showrunner Michele Martinelli.
Martinelli, praised by Hargitay, brings renewal with roots in early seasons, new cameras, sets, and challenges for Benson. The season promises twisty cases and fresh dynamics.
Emotional Season 27 Premiere
Season 27 opened with a poignant funeral for Captain Donald Cragen (Dann Florek), which Hargitay called 'rough' in a Kelly Clarkson interview. Returns of B.D. Wong, Dean Winters, Christopher Meloni, Kelli Giddish, and Amanda Rollins added genuine emotion, feeling effortless due to lived histories.
Hargitay emphasized the power of these reunions, honoring past co-stars like Richard Belzer. The female-led production signals a vibrant shift, with women 'running the show, literally.'
SVU's impact persists, blending drama with social commentary, as reviewers praise Hargitay's authentic Olivia Benson amid critiques of procedural elements.
2025 Achievements and Legacy
In 2025, Hargitay topped Forbes' highest-paid TV actor list, second among actresses after Nicole Kidman. Her Emmys appearance saw playful roasts from co-stars like Ice-T and Meloni, celebrating 27 years on SVU.
A trained rape crisis counselor, she channels personal commitment into Benson. Past injuries from stunts, including a lung collapse, led her to rely on doubles, prioritizing health post-motherhood.
Philanthropy marks her too: 2025 TIME100 Philanthropy list honoree for VAWA advocacy and Joyful Heart Foundation. Donations like $100,000 to UCLA underscore her influence beyond screens.