The 27th season finale of *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit* (SVU) is set to air on Thursday, 14 May at 9 p.m. ET on NBC, marking another significant moment in the history of this long-running programme. Kelli Giddish, who plays Detective Amanda Rollins, has reflected on her journey throughout the series, expressing both her surprise and excitement at being a part of it for sixteen years.
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Giddish, now 46, enthusiastically recounts her return to SVU after a brief departure in December 2022. Speaking to *PEOPLE*, she highlighted the strong bonds forged within what she describes as the “Dick Wolf Universe.” “When they form relationships with people, you have faith and trust that if there’s a spot for you that opens up back in the family, they’ll invite you back,” she explained, showing her appreciation for the connections she has maintained over the years.
Since leaving the series, Giddish welcomed her third child, son Oldie, with her husband Beau in June 2023. The actress, who is also mother to Ludo, 10, and Charlie, 7, describes her time away as serendipitous. “I got to have my third baby, and for the first time I got to stay at home with my baby,” she shared. Now fully engaged with the show once again, Giddish expressed disbelief at how quickly the season has passed.
As the cast prepares for a hiatus before filming for the 28th season begins in July, Giddish is eager for some family time but admits she misses work during breaks. “I’m looking forward to next season already. It’s going to be fun,” she said, enthusiastically referring to the joy of reconnecting with her longtime colleagues. She reminisced about how the children of her crew were once toddlers and are now getting married, emphasising the deep, personal connections she has formed over her years on the show.
Many viewers may not be aware of the uncertainty Giddish faced when she first joined the cast in 2011. At that time, the series was navigating a transition with the departure of Christopher Meloni, who played Elliot Stabler. Reflecting on her initial hesitation, she recalled, “I wasn’t a big watcher of the show when I got the gig… I thought, ‘They’re messing with the whole formula between those two? It may not last.’” However, she now laughs at her early doubts and acknowledges her astonishment that the show has continued to thrive and evolve over the years.
Upon relocating from Los Angeles to New York, Giddish viewed her audition as a significant opportunity in her career. “Every single step I’m taking in my career, you kind of throw seeds out. You never know when they’re going to come into fruition,” she explained, recounting how she first crossed paths with former showrunner Warren Light at a playwrights conference years before being cast as Rollins.
The character of Amanda Rollins quickly developed into a complex role that resonated with Giddish. “[Warren] was like, ‘Done,’” she recalled, discussing how they decided to make Rollins a Southern character instead of adhering to the original plan. Giddish was drawn to the character’s gritty nature, given that exploring her flaws and challenges provided a rich canvas for her acting skills.
Every new script feels like a gift to Giddish, fuelling her enthusiasm for the role. “I remember getting to read each and every script that came out, I was like, ‘They’re just so moving.’ I still feel that way,” she added, likening her anticipation for new scripts to a child awaiting a new Harry Potter book. This genuine excitement and dedication contribute to the dynamic atmosphere on set, where she appreciates the collaborative spirit nurtured by her long-time co-star, Mariska Hargitay.
As the finale episode approaches, fans eagerly await to see how this season concludes and what lies ahead for the beloved characters. Kelli Giddish’s ongoing commitment to the role of Amanda Rollins reinforces the enduring appeal of *Law & Order: SVU*, which continues to hold a strong place in the hearts of its viewers. The upcoming season promises to introduce new developments and storylines, keeping audiences engaged and excited for the future.