Meet the Real-Life Loves of the “Law & Order: SVU” Cast

**Romance Behind the Scenes: Relationships of the ‘Law & Order: SVU’ Cast**

As the acclaimed series *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit* gears up for its 28th season, starting on October 8, 2023, many fans may be surprised to learn that some of its cast members have found enduring love both on and off screen. While the show is often centred around serious themes and intense storylines, it appears that romance has bloomed among the actors involved.

Mariska Hargitay, who has portrayed Detective Olivia Benson since the show’s inception on September 20, 1999, met her husband, actor Peter Hermann, during a guest appearance he made on the show in 2002. Hermann played the role of defence attorney Trevor Langan and has reprised this character on numerous occasions throughout the series. Hargitay and Hermann were married in August 2004 and are now the proud parents of three children: sons August Miklos Friedrich and Andrew Nicolas, and daughter Amaya Josephine. Hermann has expressed gratitude for their relationship, stating, “We sort of knew that we found the right one,” reflecting their profound connection.

Another beloved couple from the SVU world is Ice-T and Coco Austin. Ice-T, who has portrayed Sergeant Odafin “Fin” Tutuola since 2000, met Coco while they were filming a music video and they became an item soon after. The couple married legally in 2006, having eloped in Las Vegas in 2002. They share a daughter, Chanel Nicole, born in 2015, and Ice-T also has two adult children from previous relationships. Notably, Coco has made several guest appearances on *SVU*, playing different characters, much to the delight of her husband and the crew.

Peter Scanavino, who joined *SVU* as ADA Dominick “Sonny” Carisi in season 16, has enjoyed a stable marriage with artist Lisha Bai since 2011. The couple frequently shares snippets of their life together online, showcasing their three children and their artistic accomplishments. Scanavino has been open about celebrating his wife and considers meeting her the best moment of his life.

Kelli Giddish, known for her role as Amanda Rollins, found love within the *SVU* family as well. Her husband, Beau Richards, began as her driver before their friendship blossomed into a romantic relationship. They wed in November 2021 and welcomed a son, Oldie, in June 2023. Giddish often speaks of the comfort and joy Richards brings to her life, reflecting on their special connection.

In a parallel story, Kevin Kane, who portrays Detective Terry Bruno, is married to actress Francis Benhamou. The couple has been seen on various red carpets and Kane often shares heartfelt messages about his wife on social media, illustrating their loving relationship. They welcomed a daughter, although they have chosen to keep her name private.

On the newer cast front, Corey Cott, who plays Detective Jake Griffin, has a romantic backstory with wife Meghan Woollard that began at Carnegie Mellon drama school. Cott’s proposal was as dramatic as one may expect from an actor, culminating in a public performance that romantically sealed the deal. The couple married in January 2013 and share three sons, creating a bustling family life amidst their careers.

Another pair who have successfully navigated the spotlight is Chris Meloni and his wife, Sherman Williams. Meloni portrayed Detective Elliot Stabler throughout nearly 300 episodes and has long been dedicated to his marriage with Williams since 1995. The couple shares two children and Meloni attributes the longevity of their relationship to Williams’s patience and support, which has allowed him to grow.

Dann Florek, who played Captain Donald Cragen for 15 seasons, has been married to Karen Florek since 1983. The couple’s enduring relationship recently gained attention when a food blogger discovered old photographs of them hidden inside their former home, sparking a new friendship and telling a delightful tale of their history together.

Finally, beloved cast member Richard Belzer, who played Detective John Munch, was married to retired actress Harlee McBride for 38 years until his passing in February 2023. His enduring bond with McBride is a testament to their long-lasting love, which was cherished by many of their colleagues, including Hargitay, who shared her heartfelt tributes following his death.

As *Law & Order: SVU* prepares to captivate audiences again this season, the commitment and affection showcased by its cast members off the screen add an uplifting layer to the show’s legacy. Their romances reflect a warmth and connection that resonates with fans, proving that love can flourish even in the complex world of crime drama.