Mariska Hargitay's Uncertainty on Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler's Future in 'SVU' Revealed (Exclusive)

Mariska Hargitay is uncertain about whether Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler will end up together on Law & Order: SVU.

In an exclusive interview with We while in New York City on May 6, Hargitay, aged 60, shared that the show keeps their relationship open. They are careful with the story and want to handle it in the right way, which requires a lot of thought. She mentioned that they are still on the journey and she hasn't thought about them being endgame yet.

Hargitay first played Captain Benson when Law & Order: SVU debuted in 1999. Alongside Christopher Meloni's Stabler, they portrayed a will-they, won't-they dynamic on screen for many years. Meloni, aged 63, left his SVU role in 2011 after season 12, but returned to TV in 2021 for Law & Order: Organized Crime.

Since the beginning, the actors have been asked about the relationship between Benson and Stabler. Recently, Hargitay made headlines by sharing in her Variety cover story that there was nearly a kiss between the characters, which ultimately didn't make it to the final cut.

Hargitay made it clear that she and Benson aren’t going anywhere yet, even though the “endgame” question suggests an ending.

She compared being on SVU to running a marathon, saying she still has a ways to go before reaching the finish line. Hargitay emphasized the importance of doing what’s best, healthiest, enduring, and right for the present moment.

This year marked the 25th season of the show, which saw the return of familiar faces like Kelli Giddish as Amanda Rollins.

Mariska Hargitay expressed her excitement about having Kelli Giddish back on set, stating, "Having my girl back, having Kelli Giddish back is always such a treat for me. I miss her so much and I miss acting with her. So, that was such a joy."

Mariska Hargitay Doesnt Know If Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler Are Endgame on SVU

Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images/Getty Images

Giddish, who is 44 years old, portrayed the character of Rollins from seasons 13 to 24. She made guest appearances in season 25 after stepping down from her regular role last year.

Hargitay mentioned that season 25 had its share of challenges, such as directing her episode called “Children of Wolves,” which aired last month.

The talented writers of SVU work tirelessly, and our partnership is truly beautiful. Mariska Hargitay, who plays Olivia Benson, has noticed moments where lines she's said in real life appear in the scripts. This blending of Mariska and Olivia is powerful and incredible, making it a privilege to portray this character.

In addition to her role as Benson, Hargitay has collaborated with Purina to reveal the "Courageous Together" Statue by Artist Kristen Visbal. The statue features a woman and her dog connected by a purple leash, symbolizing the first step survivors take when leaving an abuser.

Hargitay expressed her admiration for Purina, stating that both she and the organization share a common goal of supporting survivors in their healing journey. She highlighted the alignment of their missions, with her Joyful Heart Foundation raising awareness about issues such as sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. Learning about Purina's efforts to make shelters more pet-friendly deeply resonated with her.

Mariska Hargitay Doesnt Know If Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler Are Endgame on SVU

Mariska Hargitay, courtesy of MOVI Inc., shared that nearly half of survivors postponed leaving their abuser out of worry for their pet's well-being. To address this concern, Purina is spearheading the Purple Leash Project in collaboration with the nonprofit RedRover to support more domestic violence shelters in becoming pet-friendly.

It is heartbreaking and unacceptable that anyone would have to choose between their own safety and the safety of their pet," said Hargitay. She expressed admiration for the initiative and emphasized the courage it takes for survivors to leave, a difficult and isolating decision. Hargitay stressed the importance of supporting survivors in every possible way, including allowing them to bring their whole family with them, as pets are often considered part of the family.

Editor's P/S:

Mariska Hargitay's uncertainty about Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler's romantic future in "Law & Order: SVU" has sparked both intrigue and anticipation among fans. Hargitay's deliberate approach to the storyline, prioritizing the integrity of the characters and the narrative, suggests that their relationship will continue to evolve and be explored in a thoughtful manner. The possibility of an endgame remains open, but Hargitay's emphasis on the journey and the present moment highlights the show's commitment to organic storytelling.

Beyond the romantic subplot, the article also sheds light on the enduring impact of "SVU" and Hargitay's unwavering dedication to the show and its mission. The return of familiar faces like Kelli Giddish and the collaboration with organizations like Purina underscore the series' commitment to addressing real-world issues and supporting survivors. Hargitay's involvement in the Purple Leash Project further demonstrates her passion for animal welfare and her understanding of the unique challenges faced by survivors of domestic violence.