'Law & Order: SVU' Season 27 Cast: 2 Stars Exit, 7 Return, 1 Promoted to Series Regular

"Law & Order: SVU" is gearing up for another thrilling season this fall, with Captain Olivia Benson back at the helm, leading her squad in the fight against New York City's most dangerous criminals.

Mariska Hargitay, who has portrayed Olivia Benson on the "Law & Order" franchise since the show's debut in 1999, returns to guide the team week after week.

Reflecting on her long-running role, Hargitay described her time on set as "a joy and a privilege."

"We have so much fun, and I am so deeply invested, and I really look at it as a team," she told "Access" ahead of Season 27. "That's how I lead, I think, by keeping the team together and the team focused."

Season 27 of the NBC series from Wolf Entertainment premiered on Thursday, September 25, 2025. Succeeding episode will air Thursday nights and be available the following day on Peacock, offering multiple ways for viewers to stay caught up.

Additionally, the fifth season of "Law & Order: Organized Crime," led by Chris Meloni, will follow at 10 p.m., marking its move from NBC to Peacock. Meloni may even appear in the "SVU" season premiere, as he was spotted filming with Hargitay in a recent promo.

This season brings new leadership behind the camera as well. Michele Fazekas, who has written for "SVU" in past seasons, has been tapped as the show's new showrunner.

Hargitay praised the appointment, explaining, "I've always had a secret dream of having a female showrunner, because of the issues that we are dealing with."

Season 27 also brings notable cast changes. Juliana Martinez will not be returning, while Octavio Pisano will reprise his role as Detective Joe Velasco for the premiere before departing.

Kevin Kane, who has portrayed Detective Terry Bruno since Season 24 and appeared in multiple roles on the show dating back to 2008, continues as a series regular. Meanwhile, Kelli Giddish will also return.

Fans got additional casting news this summer when Aimé Donna Kelly was confirmed to be upgraded to series regular, bringing fresh energy to the ensemble.

With a mix of returning favorites, new faces, and a fresh leadership team, Season 27 promises to continue "SVU"'s legacy of intense, character-driven storytelling.