‘SVU’ Fans, Get Ready for ‘Law & Order: Hate Crimes Unit’

From: studybreaks.com
By Dana Shugrue, John Carroll University


Who’s ready for Olivia Benson to get more screen time?

Ever since high school, I’ve been an avid viewer of “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” Although the material has been extremely intense and sometimes difficult to watch, I couldn’t help but tune in to watch my favorite detectives, Olivia Benson and Elliott Stabler, serve and protect the streets of downtown Manhattan. My take isn’t uncommon either, as the show has been on the air for 20 consecutive seasons. Crazy, right?

Well, for those of you who have loyally watched and supported “LOSVU” over the years, it’s time to buckle your seatbelts. NBC has ordered “Law & Order: Hate Crimes Unit” from producers Dick Wolf and Warren Leight. And the most exciting part? (Drumroll, please!) Mariska Hargitay (AKA Olivia Benson) will resume her role as Detective Benson. High school me is in shock.

Favorite characters aside, I think it’s high time a television network addresses this pressing issue. Acts of discrimination have been relevant for decades, and police procedural dramas have danced around the prevalence of hate crimes, maybe portraying one instance of police brutality in an entire 24-episode season.

Luckily, Wolf and Warren plan to change the world of crime TV with this revolutionary series. The structure is said to be extremely similar to SVU, with a highly skilled team of specialized detectives bringing heinous criminals to justice.

This special team of “specialized detectives” will work under the Special Victims Unit, of which Benson is the head. As in “Law & Order: SVU,” members of the Hate Crimes Unit are extremely passionate, working relentlessly behind publicized discriminatory headlines and videos, serving justice where it’s needed most.

Perhaps the most significant part of the show will be its portrayal of hate crimes and discrimination. “Law & Order: Hate Crimes Unit” is based off the real Hate Crimes Unit in New York City, in hopes of shedding light onto what real detectives encounter on a daily basis.

This should be expected, as Wolf’s shows have always had an air of reality to them: “As with all of my crime shows, I want to depict what’s really going on in our cities and shine a light on the wide-ranging victims and show that justice can prevail.”

While the portrayal of such prominent issues in our country is needed, many people are wary of Wolf’s latest series, as they aren’t sure if the ill-treatment of marginalized groups should be the subject of entertainment.

Not only would violence toward minorities be difficult to watch, but many people have questioned whether TV is the right platform for such a sensitive topic.

People also fear that minorities will strictly be cast as victims, and in a show created by two white men. As an attempt to put potential viewers at ease, NPR critic Eric Deggans stated: “We should bear in mind there isn’t a script. There isn’t a pilot episode created. So we’re talking about a show that doesn’t really exist yet.”

In the same interview, Deggans went on to say how “Law & Order: SVU” has turned rape and sexual assault into entertainment: “Now, it can still be tough to watch a succession of people assaulted in different ways every week without looking exploitive. And I think that’s the concern about what might happen during this ‘Hate Crimes’ series as well.”

However, he also said that “LOSVU” has educated viewers and has shed light onto the experiences of survivors as well as how law enforcement officers struggle to put these cases on trial. His main argument lies in Detective Benson, as her conversations with sexual assault victims have resonated strongly with “Law & Order” audiences.

Her presence in “Law & Order: Hate Crimes Unit” will likely draw in (and maintain) high viewership ratings. It looks like Mariska Hargitay is the best thing to happen to the “Law & Order” series — I knew my instincts were right.

If anything, Wolf hopes that this latest installment of “Law & Order” will spark conversation about hate crimes and acts of discrimination. He explained how many sexual assault victims refused to come forward when “LOSVU” first came out, but after bringing similar situations to the big screen and included sympathetic detectives (aka Olivia Benson), people finally started to talk. Wolf believes that “LOHCU” will produce a similar effect.

The series sure is timely, as hate crimes have been at an all-time high since Trump’s inauguration in 2016. A few examples include Neo-Nazism, white supremacists and the persistent use of the phrase “go back to your own country” to immigrants.

When writer Kevin Allred got word of “LOHCU,” he sarcastically responded: “With a rise in actual hate crimes since the 2016 election, the thing we definitely need most is to be subjected to lots of fictionalized hate crimes on network tv too.” Many others chimed in, claiming that a show about hate crimes in unnecessary, as they can watch a “hate crime live stream” through their bedroom window.

Again, I’m a huge fan of “Law & Order: SVU,” so I’m slightly biased. That being said, “LOSVU” has yielded plenty of positive change, and “LOHCU” could easily produce the same effect — especially with Olivia Benson in the picture.

Seeing as hate crimes are especially prominent in the U.S., one can only hope Wolf portrays them realistically on the big screen. And honestly, with his track record, I don’t think there’s much to worry about.

So, when will the latest installment of “Law & Order” air? The premiere date is TBD, but if you’re an Olivia Benson fan, you’re hoping it’s sooner rather than later. As I already mentioned, today’s discriminatory political climate warrants a show such as “Law & Order: Hate Crimes Unit,” in which instances of hate and discrimination are finally addressed. And hey, if “LOHCU” is anything like “LOSVU,” its task force will feature ethnically diverse detectives, which will hopefully put audience skepticisms at ease.

As an avid “LOSVU” viewer, my expectations couldn’t be higher for Wolf’s next addition to the “Law & Order” universe. This fan is extremely excited to see Detective Benson back in action fighting for justice once again.

Mariska Hargitay Talks 20 Years of 'SVU': The Benson-Stabler Chemistry, Best Storylines & How It Might End

From: journalstar.com
By: Ileane Rudolph, TV Guide Magazine

Critics weren’t sure what to make of Dick Wolf’s Law & Order spinoff with a sex-crimes slant when it arrived in 1999. For every "crackling-sharp" and "dead-on," there was a "formulaic" or "uneasy-making." But Mariska Hargitay — who has played intrepid NYC cop Olivia Benson, now the lieutenant, since Day 1 — and her Special Victims Unit costars quickly won over fans, and along the way to amassing 434 episodes, she earned eight Emmy nods, winning one.

A producer and occasional director, Hargitay has been greatly affected by SVU’s stories of sexual assault and domestic violence, launching the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004 to help empower survivors. (Her documentary about the backlog of untested DNA rape kits, I Am Evidence, can be seen on HBO Go and HBO Now.)

Plus, Kelli Giddish gives some background on her character's complicated love story in Season 20.

Ahead of the two-hour episode that opens the milestone 20th season ("Olivia is going to deal with some new things, maybe her own physical limitations," Hargitay teases), she solves 20 more mysteries about her beloved drama.

Can you believe it?

Mariska Hargitay: I’m still taking it in. I feel deeply grateful to Dick for creating this show and having the vision to sustain the quality. The other night we had a dinner party. When I brought him the cake with "20" in Roman numerals, it hit me like a ton of bricks!

What are your memories of your first day on set?

Keeping it real, I don’t remember! But I do have a million memories from the pilot, especially the immediate chemistry with Chris [Meloni, who played Det. Elliot Stabler]. We were filming in the Meatpacking District, and it was really hot and raining, so we all had to wear baseball caps. I was going, "How lucky is this California girl to be shooting a television series in New York with this fantastic actor and fantastic crew!"

Were you concerned about the difficult themes of the show? The first season had an assault with a banana, for heaven’s sake!

My agent called to say, "I don’t know if you’ll be interested in this because it’s very dark subject matter." When I read the script, however, I felt it was such a truly pioneering show. I was shocked at first. I had to ground myself and be brave.

What storyline have you found particularly meaningful?

The one about Olivia getting a family after being turned down for adoption and then having God drop this beautiful baby boy in her lap.

What’s been tough emotionally?

The show is about the worst things people do to each other in the darkest part of humanity, which means many stories are difficult. But when a child suffers — those hit us hardest.

And physically challenging?

The William Lewis arc [in Season 15] was the most taxing. It was gut-wrenching to shoot, but it was a treat to work with Pablo Schreiber [as Lewis, the rapist/killer who kidnapped Olivia]. I trusted him, so I was able to go there.

Olivia seems to get kidnapped a lot. Do you even know the total?

At least five. There were a few episodes where I’m like, "I’m not a very good cop, am I?"

She’s also had a lot of hairstyles! Best and worst?

Like any woman, Olivia is trying to find the hairstyle that fits her life. I stand behind all my hairdos, except maybe three. [Laughs] After one shoot, the hairdresser, who was French, wanted to trim my hair. So he’s drinking wine and cutting, and when I looked up from my magazine, I just went, "This is not good." Dick told me he was going to fire me. I cried so hard, like, "You’re blaming me?" It went on for two weeks; then he said, "There’s no crying in television," and we moved past it.

What made Chris, your first partner in crime solving, so special?

From the second we met, bells went off. We knew we were going to be a huge force in each other’s lives. He was intense and mercurial but also fun.

Your current costar Ice-T, who plays Sgt. "Fin" Tutuola, is known as the Philosopher King, right?

He goes on his philosopher rants and everyone gathers around because the way he breaks everything down is clear and simple. He takes all the complex and whiny stuff out of it, like, "Here’s the deal." And in 19 years, I’ve never seen him in a bad mood or raise his voice.

How did Meloni’s departure after 12 seasons affect SVU?

When Danny Pino [Det. Nick Amaro] and Kelli Giddish [Det. Amanda Rollins] arrived [in Season 13], I felt like I was almost on a new series. Those two brought a completely new energy. It was really sad when Danny left [in 2015]. We wrote him a song with a Cuban beat. When Raúl [Esparza, aka ADA Rafael Barba] left [earlier this year], we threw a party and offered toasts. With Andy Karl [Sgt. Mike Dodds, killed off in 2016], we went to dinner. We’re all very close.

SVU is known for its guest stars. Five won Emmys, and 11 more were nominated. Who’s your favorite?

Robin Williams [in 2008]. It was being in the presence of true greatness. He had this huge heart: The set photographer captured Robin playing with my son, August [then not quite 2], with a smile from ear to ear. John Ritter [2002] was another great light. I met my husband [Younger’s Peter Hermann] on that episode!

How has SVU evolved in the treatment of rape and assault survivors?

What is beautiful is that the show has evolved from "Let’s shine a light on these issues" to "Time’s up, let’s make changes and stop these issues" I think the culture is catching up.

What explains the show’s remarkable longevity?

Basically, we’re telling compelling stories that are close to our hearts, our souls and our core. Olivia is a champion of healing — the mother figure we all want.

How would you like SVU to end?

With Olivia finding real peace and balance and love. She’s given so much to others that I want her, as she has fought for other people, to fight for herself.

But before then, you must want to make it to 21 seasons to beat Law & Order?

You know I do!

Mariska Hargitay Reveals How 'SVU' Might End

From: popculture.com
By Jose Bastidas

Law & Order: SVU is nearing the premiere of its 20th season, and Mariska Hargitay recently opened up about her favorite moments from the show's history, Olivia's hair and how she would like to see the series end some day.

Hargitay, who has lead the cast in the 8-time Emmy nominated role of Olivia Benson, has said she has no desire to see the show end for many years to come, having been affected by the stories of sexual assault the show spotlights so much that she launched the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004 to empower survivors.

With the two-hour 20th season premiere of the show on the horizon, Hargitay spoke to TV Insider about the legacy of the series, adding how she would like to see her character end the show on a happy note.

"[She'd like the show to end] With Olivia finding real peace and balance and love," Hargitay told the outlet. "She's given so much to others that I want her, as she has fought for other people, to fight for herself.

The actress said the fact the series has run for 20 seasons has not really sunk in yet, despite NBC's heavy marketing of the landmark season, one shy away from tying the record of its predecessor, Law & Order.

"I feel deeply grateful to Dick [Wolf] for creating this show and having the vision to sustain the quality," she said. "The other night we had a dinner party. When I brought him the cake with "20" in Roman numerals, it hit me like a ton of bricks."

During the interview, Hargitay also looked back on some of Olivia's most epic hairdos, even the ones she didn't enjoy as much.

"Like any woman, Olivia is trying to find the hairstyle that fits her life," Hargitay said. "I stand behind all my hairdos, except maybe three."

"After one shoot, the hairdresser, who was French, wanted to trim my hair. So he's drinking wine and cutting, and when I looked up from my magazine, I just went, 'This is not good.' Dick told me he was going to fire me. I cried so hard, like, 'You're blaming me?' It went on for two weeks; then he said, 'There's no crying in television,' and we moved past it."

With the beginning of its 20th cycle looming, Hargitay reflected on how the series has evolved in its portrayal of the dark subject matter of sexual assault.

"What is beautiful is that the show has evolved from 'Let's shine a light on these issues' to 'Time's up, let's make changes and stop these issues' I think the culture is catching up," she said.

Law & Order: SVU returns for its 20th season with a two-hour season premiere on Thursday, Sept. 27 at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.

Mariska's TV Guide Cover Return

Our girl Mariska is going to be on the cover of TV Guide! She will appear on the Sept 17 - 30th issue. Don't forget to pick up your copy on newsstands soon!

Ice-T's Feelings About Mariska Hargitay’s People's Choice Award Nomination Are Too Good

From: bustle.com
ByKristie Rohwedder

Sergeant Tutuola wants to make sure justice is served. Ice-T really hopes Mariska Hargitay wins that People’s Choice Award. So much so, he may take drastic measures.

Hargitay is nominated for Drama TV Star of 2018, and her Law & Order: Special Victims Unit co-star is determined to see her take home the honor.

As he recently deadpanned to E! News, "I’m gonna hack the site." Ice-T continued, "I saw the button and I tried to push it and it wouldn’t push on my phone. I showed her and she said, 'This is broke! Get this fixed!' You know, so I'm going to do what I can."

Olivia Benson and Fin Tutuola have been buddies on and off-screen for a long time, so duh, of course he wants to see her win at the PCAs. Just how long have they been buddies, you ask? Well, on Sept.

27, the 20th season of Law & Order: SVU will premiere. Yes, 20th. As in, the procedural drama has literally been on since 1999. Hargitay is the only member of the first season's main cast who is still around; Ice-T has been on the show since Season 2.

So to answer your question, Hargitay and Ice-T have been pals for, like, forever.

Some co-stars get sick of each other after a few seasons. Some co-stars can't stand each other from the jump. Hargitay and Ice-T, however, have worked together for around two decades and are as chummy as can be. As Ice-T told E! News,

"The beauty of Mariska is that not only is she a great actress, she's a really nice lady. She's a wonderful person. So anything that happens for her, she deserves. And me and her have become incredible friends. I always tell Mariska, 'There's two women in my life, now three. You have Chanel, you have Coco, my wife, and you, Mariska. But I've made more money with you, Mariska. So you're up there, baby.' She’s just a good person. She should be the People's Choice.”

The Hargitay and Ice-T bond sure seems to be an untouchable one. As Hargitay tweeted back in 2016,

“There are few people I trust more than @FINALLEVEL. There are few people Olivia Benson trusts more than Fin. #TrustFin #RealLifeCrossover”

Oh, these two. Here is one of the many terrific selfies they've taken together:

The PCAs will air on Nov. 11, and you can vote over at E!'s site. Hargitay is up against Andrew Lincoln (The Walking Dead), Ellen Pompeo (Grey's Anatomy), Jason Bateman (Ozark), Kerry Washington (Scandal), Justin Hartley (This Is Us), Freddie Highmore (The Good Doctor), Chrissy Metz (This Is Us), KJ Apa (Riverdale), Elisabeth Moss (The Handmaid's Tale), Darren Criss (The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story), and Katherine Langford (13 Reasons Why).

Whew, that’s quite a category. But as stacked as it is, Ice-T didn't have to think twice about who he's voting for. Finlivia forever.

Ice T Is Ready to Hack the E! Site to Ensure Mariska Hargitay Wins a People's Choice Award

From: eonline.com
by Johnni Macke                    

In New York City, the dedicated detectives, err, we mean, in America, the people have spoken and Law & Order: SVU star Mariska Hargitay is up for a 2018 E! People's Choice Award. Dun-dun!

Not only is the actress, who plays Detective Olivia Benson happy about her nomination, but longtime co-star and friend Ice-T is ready to do anything it takes to get her the votes she needs to win the category of Drama TV Star of 2018.

While gearing up to take part in Michael's Make Off! challenge on Saturday, Ice-T revealed that he's ready to help Hargitay win in any way possible...even if that means hacking the voting site.

"I'm gonna hack the site," Ice-T told E! News over the weekend about his tactic to help his SVU co-star.

"I saw the button and I tried to push it and it wouldn't push on my phone," he continued. "I showed her, [and] she said, ‘this is broke, get this fixed!' I'm going to do what I can."

Although we're not sure if the actor, who plays Detective Fin Tutola, is serious about hacking the site, he is serious about the show's leading lady and how special she is in real life.

"The beauty of Mariska is that not only is she a great actress, she's a really nice lady. She's a wonderful person so, anything that happens for her, she deserves it," he explained.

Over the years the two have grown as friends and now that the series is entering its 20th season it's no surprise that the actors have an even stronger bond than before.

"Me and her have become incredible friends. I always tell Mariska, I say, there are two women in my life, now three," he said.

"You have Chanel, you have Coco my wife and you Mariska, but I've made more money with you Mariska. So, you're up there baby."

If you need another reason to vote for Hargitay for this year's PCAs then just take a tip from Ice-T who is one of her biggest fans.

"She's just a good person," he added. "She should be the people's choice."

Vote for Hargitay and all of your other TV favorites ahead of the 2018 E! People's Choice Awards now.

PS: Don't miss all-new episodes of Law and Order: SVU when it returns for its 20th season on Sept. 27 at 9 p.m. on NBC.

(E! and NBC are both a part of the NBCUniversal family)

'Law & Order: Hate Crimes' Announced

From:accessonline.com
-- Jolie Lash

A new "Law & Order" series is in the works.

On Tuesday, NBC announced "Law & Order: Hate Crimes," which is based on New York's Hate Crimes Task Force.

The series will follow "an elite, specially trained team of investigators," NBC said in a release.

"As with all of my crime shows, I want to depict what's really going on in our cities and shine a light on the wide-ranging victims and show that justice can prevail," Executive Producer Dick Wolf said in a statement. "Twenty years ago when 'SVU' began, very few people felt comfortable coming forward and reporting these crimes, but when you bring the stories into people’s living rooms – with characters as empathetic as Olivia Benson – a real dialogue can begin. That's what I hope we can do with this new show in a world where hate crimes have reached an egregious level."

The drama has been given a 13-episode commitment from NBC. Former "SVU" showrunner Warren Leight is a co-creator of the latest installment in the franchise.

Since the show will be set in NYC, we're hoping for crossover action. Mariska Hargitay, who plays Olivia Benson on "SVU," is an executive producer on the upcoming show.

"Law & Order: Hate Crimes" is set to be introduced on the latter end of "SVU's" 20th season.

In addition to this series, Wolf has another show debuting this fall on CBS – "FBI." The series stars Missy Peregrym as Special Agent Maggie Bell, Zeeko Zaki as Special Agent Omar Adom Zidan, Ebonée Noel as analyst Kristen Chazal, "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" alum Jeremy Sisto as Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jubal Valentine and Sela Ward as Special Agent in Charge Dana Mosier.

It follows an elite unit of the New York office of the FBI and premieres Tues., Sept. 25 at 9/8c on CBS.