“Law & Order: SVU” has introduced many memorable characters over the years, especially since Detective Elliot Stabler (Christopher Meloni) left the show after season 12 due to a contract dispute. With a host of new characters stepping in since then, fans recently weighed in on their “favorite post-Stabler character.” Here’s a detailed look at the poll results and what fans had to say.
Fans Weigh in on Their ‘Favorite Post-Stabler Character’
On April 11, 2020, a Reddit user initiated a poll titled, “Favorite Post-Stabler character?” The poll asked fans to choose their favorite new character from season 13 onward. The options included Rafael Barba (Raúl Esparza), Amanda Rollins (Kelli Giddish), Nick Amaro (Danny Pino), Dominick Carisi Jr. (Peter Scanavino), Katriona Tamin (Jamie Gray Hyder), and Mike Dodds (Andy Karl). The poll excluded Peter Stone, as the poster believed he would be the least popular.
Out of 324 votes, Rafael Barba emerged as the clear favorite, securing 183 votes. Dominick Carisi followed with 79 votes, while the rest trailed significantly: Nick Amaro with 32 votes, Amanda Rollins with 18 votes, Mike Dodds with 11 votes, and Katriona Tamin with just 1 vote.
Fans Share Their Thoughts
Beyond the poll, fans also shared their thoughts in the comments, revealing a variety of opinions.
One enthusiastic fan declared, “Barba for life!! That’s my guy for real ✊🏽.”
However, another fan remarked, “This isn’t fair. Everyone likes Barba.”
Many fans mentioned Barba alongside other characters. “Barba and Amaro for me,” one fan commented.
For another fan, the choice was between Barba and two other detectives. “Barba, Kat, and Rollins,” they said.
“Barba and Carisi,” another fan added, while someone else noted, “Barba and Kat.”
A fan expressed difficulty choosing between Detective Nick Amaro, who appeared from season 13 to 16, and Sergeant Dodds, who tragically died. “I’m stuck between Amaro and Dodds,” they said.
Another fan praised Carisi, who transitioned from detective to ADA. “I like Carisi,” they shared.
In contrast, a fan preferred Amaro over Carisi, stating, “Amaro > Carisi.”
One fan questioned the popularity of Rollins, who has been a mainstay since season 13. “Who is out there voting for Rollins? She’s the worst,” they wrote.
Ultimately, Rafael Barba won the hearts of fans as the favorite post-Stabler character in “Law & Order: SVU.” His strong presence and memorable sass left a lasting impression, solidifying his place as a standout character in the series.