Law & Order: SVU is Back! Season 27 Release Date & Epic Cast Reunion!

Get ready for more ripped-from-the-headlines drama! Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, the longest-running show in the iconic Law & Order franchise, is officially returning for its 27th season. That's right, SVU will be back on NBC this fall, continuing its legacy of tackling tough issues with compelling storytelling.

SVU Season 27 Release Date

Mark your calendars! Law & Order: Special Victims Unit Season 27 premieres on Thursday, September 25th at 9/8c on NBC. New episodes of the 21-episode season will air weekly in that time slot. Can't wait? You can stream new episodes the next day on Peacock.

Fan Favorites Return

The heart of SVU remains its stellar cast. Mariska Hargitay returns as the indomitable Captain Olivia Benson, a character she's portrayed since the very first episode. Benson's journey from a fresh-faced detective to a seasoned leader has resonated with audiences for over two decades. Also returning is Ice-T as Sergeant Odafin "Fin" Tutuola, a mainstay since Season 2. While David Graziano has departed, Michele Fazekas takes over.

Remembering the Beginning

In a recent celebration, Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni reminisced about their very first lines on the show. Both actors were able to recall them after 26 years. Hargitay even remembered the exact setup of the scene. Hargitay’s first line on SVU was literally “Olivia Benson.” It foreshadowed how iconic she would become.

Why SVU Endures

Law & Order: SVU has captivated audiences for over two decades because of its exploration of complex and sensitive issues. Olivia Benson, in particular, has become a symbol of strength and empathy. The show's commitment to representing survivors and its willingness to tackle difficult topics have made it a cultural touchstone. As SVU enters its 27th season, it promises to continue delivering the hard-hitting drama and compelling characters that fans have come to expect.