Mariska Hargitay Reflects on Benson and Stabler’s Relationship
Mariska Hargitay, known for her role as Olivia Benson in Law and Order: SVU, has been navigating the ups and downs of her character’s relationship with Elliot Stabler, played by Chris Meloni. With the upcoming premiere of Season 27 on September 25th, she’s beginning to explore what their bond really means after years of emotional moments.
The season opener features a poignant scene where Benson and Stabler come together to grieve the loss of their mentor, Captain Donald Cragen. In a quiet exchange in Benson’s car, Stabler unexpectedly tells her, “I love you, Night,” which wasn’t part of the original script.
Meloni later revealed in an interview that he ad-libbed that line. Hargitay confirmed this, humorously commenting on Meloni’s spontaneous addition, saying, “Oh, that’s right.” When a co-host suggested that it might require approval, she quipped, “And nothing that needed approval.” It seems both actors are comfortable bringing their own flair to the show.
When asked how she felt during that moment, Hargitay shared that it was a heartfelt exchange, affirming, “It was true. And we love each other.” She noted the scene’s depth, emphasizing there were different versions filmed, but Meloni felt compelled to express the truth they were confronting as they navigated the narrative.
“Chris did it,” she added, referring to how in one version, Stabler delivered that emotional line without her character responding. “I think it was because he felt it was the truth on the ground,” she explained, pointing to the emotional stakes of the moment, particularly since they were mourning a significant figure in their lives.
Hargitay described the scene as highly emotional, reflecting on their loss and what it represented: “It’s the beginning of a new era and the end of an old one. He felt he needed to say it.” She boldly stated, “And Stabler is in love with Benson. Hello!”
Showrunner Dick Wolf has been cautious about taking their relationship beyond friendship, yet Meloni seems open to the possibility. “When did we stop watching Moonlighting?” he remarked, indicating a desire to evolve the narrative. Still, he noted, “But no, they didn’t do it,” keeping fans guessing about the potential for their relationship.
As the new season kicks off, it marks a transition for S.V.U. under the guidance of new showrunner Michelle Fazikas. Hargitay expressed excitement about the fresh energy she feels this season, acknowledging co-stars Kelly Giddish and Emme Donna Kelly’s contributions to the show’s dynamic. “It’s very exciting because sometimes it’s hard to accept that I’ve been doing this show for 27 years,” she shared, but emphasized that this year imbues a renewed sense of vitality.
