Following last week’s cancellation of Law & Order: Organized Crime, fans are speculating about whether Christopher Meloni’s Elliot Stabler might find his way back to Captain Olivia Benson’s orbit. Now, Law & Order SVU’s Mariska Hargitay has addressed the burning question on every viewer’s mind.
Mariska Hargitay is hopeful about Benson-Stabler reunion
At NBCUniversal’s Emmy Kick-Off luncheon, Hargitay responded to Deadline’s inquiry about a potential return for Christopher Meloni as Elliot Stabler with her Olivia Benson to the flagship series. The actress spoke about reuniting the iconic duo on screen. “I hope so,” Hargitay said.
“That is a very heartening thing for both of us, that our relationship was so iconic culturally and that Benson and Stabler still resonates is deeply meaningful to me.” This comes after it was announced that Organized Crime would not return for a sixth season. Meloni posted an Instagram video bidding farewell to his character. Hargitay commented “P4L” beneath the post, a phrase longtime fans recognize as shorthand for “partners for life.”
Hargitay emphasized her personal connection with her former co-star while acknowledging practical hurdles. “Chris and I, I’m sure you know, are very, very close. He’s a very in-demand actor, so we’ll see if the schedule is lined up,” she explained. Meloni currently leads Hulu’s upcoming NFL drama, The Land, from creator Dan Fogelman.
Moreover, the actor left no doubt about her willingness to revisit the dynamic that helped define Law & Order SVU for over a decade. “I love Chris, and I love acting with Chris, so I’m always open to working with him and getting Benson and Stabler together. They’re happiest when they’re together, ” Hargitay quipped.
Law & Order: Organized Crime concluded its five-season run on June 12, 2025, after 75 episodes. The cancellation ended Meloni’s dedicated series. However, it potentially opens the door for Stabler’s return to the mothership show that made him a household name, as Law & Order SVU has already been renewed through Season 28.
