Christopher Meloni Leaving Law & Order SVU – Mariska Hargitay Taking New Role

Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay - Law and Order SVU

Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay - Law and Order SVU

After a dozen seasons playing Detective Elliot Stabler on NBC’s Law & Order: SVU, actor Christopher Meloni has announced that he will not be returning for a 13th season.

In previous years Meloni had made comments which indicated that he was not completely happy on the show, but had continued to renew his contract. Last week, Meloni’s on screen partner, Mariska Hargitay, who played Detective Olivia Benson, signed for another season. Hargitay’s character however will reportedly take on a new role taking her out of the spotlight over the season, making room for a new character.

In what had been a very successful franchise of Law & Order shows on NBC, SVU will open next season as the only remaining one. “Law & Order: Criminal Intent” is filming its final episodes after being moved to the USA network a few years ago, and “Law & Order: LA,” was cancelled after only one season.

The 13th season of SVU is slated to go through some major changes in characters over the year. According to reports, in addition to Meloni leaving and Hargitay one appearing in just over half of the 22 episodes, Jennifer Love Hewitt will take on the new lead detective role.

As for a Meloni (Stabler) replacement, there are not firm reports at this time.

About Janet Lynn

Janet Lynn - a freelance writer with a great insight into the Entertainment world. jan_grdinich@newstaar.com