Which ‘Law and Order: SVU’ Stars Will Be Back — and Who Won’t — for Season 27 Following Several Cast Departures

TV Drama Shake-Ups: A Peek into the Ever-Changing World of “Law & Order: SVU”

There’s a certain comfort in tuning into a long-running show like “Law & Order: SVU”. Familiar faces, gripping stories – it’s almost like catching up with old friends. But just when you think you’ve settled into the groove, news drops that has everyone buzzing.

The beloved series, which first aired in 1999, has seen its share of character exits and returns. The latest season is no exception. Mariska Hargitay, Ice-T, Peter Scanavino, and Kevin Kane remain central figures on the show. Yet, change is once again on the horizon. Season 27 will see some significant cast shifts.

News surfaced that Octavio Pisano and Juliana Martinez, who joined as Detective Joe Velasco and Detective Kate Silva, are leaving after this season. This comes amid the appointment of Michele Fazekas as the first female showrunner – a move that seems to promise fresh perspectives and new storylines.

Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett’s departure from NBC after season 13 caught many off guard, just as Carra Patterson announced her shift to a guest role on CBS. Her character Kaya had become quite the fan-favorite since debuting last year.

Streaming platforms aren’t untouched by these waves of change either. Josh Stewart’s character Will was written off in May 2025 after an impressive run since 2007. Even when you think a character’s arc is secure, something shifts…

For those keeping score, here are some characters sticking around for season 27 and those making their exit. Mariska Hargitay reassures fans about her commitment: “I’m obviously not done with SVU,” she shared in May 2024. “There’s so much more to explore – it keeps me on my toes.” She seems content, for now at least.

Ice-T echoed excitement leading into season 26, hinting at renewed energy and audience engagement. “The ratings have been great,” he noted back in June 2024. There’s talk of going all the way to 30 seasons – ambitious but maybe not impossible?

Peter Scanavino’s future seems bright as his character continues to grow with each episode. His storyline involving Carisi’s wife suggests he’s sticking around for the foreseeable future.

Pisano’s tenure ended unexpectedly as the series gears up for more episodes without him. Kevin Kane transitioned from a recurring role to a mainstay by season 26 – no word yet on any plans for him to leave following Pisano and Martinez’s sudden departures.

Juliana Martinez was another swift entry and exit case; joining in season 26 only to leave after a brief year.

Kelli Giddish returned as a regular after sporadic appearances through seasons 25 and 26 – her return brings familiarity amidst all these shifts.

And then there’s Christopher Meloni. Moving from “SVU” in 2021 didn’t stop him from popping back for guest spots, much to fans’ delight (and hope for some romantic sparks with Benson). “Always open to opening that can of worms,” he teased about possible developments between Stabler and Benson during an interview in April 2025. Well, who knows?

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