For 22 seasons, fans of Law & Order: SVU have watched Olivia Benson rise through the ranks, evolving from a dedicated detective to the Captain of her squad. Her journey has been fraught with challenges, often sacrificing her personal life and well-being for the sake of her job.
Mariska Hargitay, who brilliantly portrays Olivia, shared in an interview how she envisions the series ending for her character. Her wish is for Olivia to find “peace” and “love.”
Olivia Benson: A Life of Dedication
Olivia Benson is known for her unwavering dedication to her job. Before adopting her son, Noah Porter-Benson (Ryan Buggle), her life revolved solely around her career. This commitment has not only made her a successful captain but also a compassionate advocate for victims. Benson’s ability to connect with victims on a deeply empathetic level has earned her widespread admiration. Despite her demanding job and responsibilities as a mother, her love life has often taken a backseat.
Over the years, Olivia has had a few romantic relationships, but none have provided lasting happiness.
Hargitay’s Vision for Olivia’s Ending
In a 2018 interview with TV Insider, Hargitay revealed her hopes for Olivia’s future. She expressed a desire for Olivia to find “real peace, balance, and love,” a sentiment that resonates with fans who have seen Olivia give so much of herself to others.
“With Olivia finding real peace and balance and love,” Hargitay shared. “She’s given so much to others that I want her, as she has fought for other people, to fight for herself.”
Olivia has consistently put the needs of her job and her son above her own. While this selflessness is commendable, she deserves personal happiness and a healthy work-life balance. Hargitay’s vision includes Olivia striving for her own well-being, just as fiercely as she does for the victims she supports and her beloved son.
Olivia’s Romantic History
Olivia’s love life has seen its share of ups and downs. Early on, she had a one-night stand with Detective Brian Cassidy (Dean Winters) in season 1, who later became a more serious boyfriend in seasons 14 and 15. Despite their efforts, the relationship ultimately ended mutually.
In season 9, Olivia briefly dated editor Kurt Moss (Bill Pullman), but their careers clashed, leading to a swift breakup. Another fleeting romance was with ADA David Haden (Harry Connick, Jr.) in season 13, but the professional overlap proved too challenging.
The most significant relationship Olivia has had was with Ed Tucker (Robert John Burke), the former Captain of the Internal Affairs Bureau. Initially at odds, their relationship evolved, and they dated from seasons 17 to 18. However, their futures did not align, and they parted ways when Ed retired. Tragically, Ed later committed suicide after being diagnosed with brain cancer in season 21.
A Hopeful Future
Olivia Benson’s journey has been one of relentless dedication and sacrifice. As SVU continues into its 22nd season, fans and Hargitay alike hope for a future where Olivia finds the love and peace she so richly deserves. Watching her achieve happiness in all aspects of her life would be a fitting and heartwarming conclusion to her story.
Conclusion
Olivia Benson’s character has touched many lives, both within the show and among its audience. As the series progresses, the hope remains that she will find the personal happiness and balance that she has long sought after. Only time will tell how her story unfolds, but fans are rooting for a joyful and peaceful ending for this beloved character.