In an exclusive insight into the upcoming 27th season of ‘Law & Order: SVU,’ newly appointed showrunner Michele Fazekas has revealed that fan-favorite character Olivia Benson will face new challenges. Fazekas, who will helm the new season premiering on Thursday, September 25th on NBC, shared her excitement about the direction the show will take.
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Fazekas, the first female showrunner in SVU history, spoke with PEOPLE during the season 2 premiere of ‘Gen V,’ a show she also oversees. Drawing on her previous experience working on SVU, Fazekas expressed her intention to recapture the essence of earlier successful seasons. She shared, “I remember what we were doing then that worked well. It’s like, ‘Alright, we’re gonna bring some of that back.'”
Having been announced in April as the new showrunner, Fazekas brings a fresh perspective to the long-running series. She highlighted some changes audiences can expect in the upcoming season, such as a new producing director, updated cameras, and a revamped set design. Fazekas emphasized a return to complex and unpredictable cases, promising surprises for both the characters and viewers.
Discussing the challenges awaiting Olivia Benson, portrayed by series star Mariska Hargitay, Fazekas hinted at a departure from the familiar for the seasoned character. She noted, “We’re giving her something to push against.” Hargitay’s portrayal of Captain Benson has been a staple of the show since its inception in 1999, making her the longest-running live-action character in primetime TV.
Reflecting on her return to SVU, Fazekas acknowledged the significance of being the first female showrunner after 26 years on the air. She credited her positive working relationship with Hargitay as a driving force behind her decision to return. Fazekas praised Hargitay for creating a welcoming and professional atmosphere on set, making the decision to come back an easy one.
Fazekas also expressed her preference for a storytelling approach that combines procedural elements with serialized narratives. She highlighted the importance of maintaining the show’s signature format while introducing overarching storylines that engage viewers across episodes. This blend of episodic closure and ongoing character development is set to define the narrative structure of the upcoming season.
As excitement builds for the premiere of Season 27 of ‘Law & Order: SVU,’ fans can anticipate a reinvigorated take on the beloved series under Fazekas’ stewardship. The combination of fresh perspectives, compelling storylines, and dynamic character interactions promises a season filled with twists, turns, and emotional resonance. Tune in on Thursday, September 25th at 9 p.m. ET on NBC to witness Olivia Benson face new challenges in the latest chapter of this iconic procedural drama.