The cast and crew of Law & Order: SVU are grieving the loss of a beloved team member who tragically passed away from the coronavirus (COVID-19). Mariska Hargitay, who plays Captain Olivia Benson, shared a touching tribute to honor Josh Wallwork, a 45-year-old costumer who was a cherished part of the SVU family.
Hargitay expressed her sorrow on Twitter, writing: “Heartbroken we are. I don’t think I ever saw him without a smile on his face. He brought love and kindness everywhere he went. Always ready with the joke. The SVU Corredor will never be the same. We will miss you, Josh. #ForeverInOurHearts.”
Warren Leight, the executive producer and showrunner of SVU, also took to Twitter to pay tribute to Wallwork. He posted: “Very sad news today. One of our costumers, and a beautiful man, Josh Wallwork, passed away from complications of COVID-19. Cast and crew send love and prayers to his family and friends. We are heartbroken.”
Ice-T, who plays Fin on the show, joined his colleagues in mourning Wallwork’s passing. He tweeted: “I worked with Josh every day… MAN! Pay attention people. #SVU.”
Production on Law & Order: SVU, along with many other shows, has been halted due to the coronavirus pandemic. NBCUniversal has paused production on all of its entertainment units, including Universal Television, Universal Television Alternative Studios, UCP, and First Run Syndication. This suspension affects all Dick Wolf dramas, including the Chicago series, New Amsterdam, and Superstore.
The future of season 21 of SVU is uncertain. Showrunner Warren Leight recently revealed on Twitter that episode 20 might serve as the season finale, although the season was initially slated for 24 episodes. Leight explained: “SVU had planned to produce 24 episodes this season. Episode 20, written by @JulieMartinSVU and me, directed by @juancampanella, may end up being our finale. If it is, it will be oddly fine in that slot – with return performances from many perps and vics we’ve met this season.”
While fans eagerly await more episodes, it’s understandable that the show has to cut the season short under the current global circumstances. Social distancing and the challenges it brings are tough for everyone. Fortunately, there is a new episode of SVU airing on April 2 at 10 p.m. EST, offering some solace to fans during these difficult times.
