When Chris Meloni exited Law & Order: SVU, the show faced an uncertain future. The departure left Mariska Hargitay’s Olivia Benson as the sole lead, and there were doubts about whether she could carry the series on her own. Critics questioned if Hargitay, despite her strong performance as Benson, could maintain the show’s success without Meloni’s Elliot Stabler by her side.
Showrunner Warren Leight, who joined the series after Meloni’s exit, was among those who recognized Hargitay’s true potential. He expressed surprise at how underestimated she had been. “When I came on board, I don’t believe people understood how exceptional she was,” Leight shared with the NY Daily News. “Many thought her success was solely due to her chemistry with Elliot, failing to see that she could carry the show independently.”
Hargitay, undeterred by the skepticism, continued to lead the series with determination. Her portrayal of Olivia Benson grew even more significant as the series progressed, establishing her character as a groundbreaking presence in television. “Olivia opened the door,” Hargitay reflected. “At that time, there weren’t many characters like her. Seeing other strong female characters now is incredibly exciting. I don’t want Olivia to be seen as an anomaly. The more powerful, amazing women on TV, the better. There’s a clear appetite for it, and I’m thrilled to be part of that change.”
Under Hargitay’s leadership, SVU not only survived but thrived, proving her critics wrong and cementing her role as a pivotal force in the show’s continued success. Her ability to anchor the series on her own has been a testament to her talent and dedication, transforming her role from a supporting character to a powerful, independent lead.