Few television series have stood the test of time quite like Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. For over 25 years, the show has captivated audiences with its gripping stories, powerful performances, and its unforgettable cast of detectives and prosecutors dedicated to justice. As SVU enters its 26th season, fans can’t help but look back at how far their favorite characters — and the actors who play them — have come. From fresh-faced rookies to seasoned veterans, here’s a look at the SVU cast then and now, including the icons who’ve been there since day one.

Mariska Hargitay — Olivia Benson (Seasons 1–26)

No name is more synonymous with Law & Order: SVU than Olivia Benson. When the series premiered in 1999, Mariska Hargitay stepped into the role of a compassionate detective determined to give survivors a voice. In her first season, Benson was young, fiery, and still learning how to navigate the emotional toll of her work. Her empathy and resilience quickly made her the heart of the series.

Fast-forward to season 26, and Benson is now Captain Olivia Benson — a commanding presence who leads her team with experience and grace. The character’s evolution from detective to leader mirrors Hargitay’s own journey as the backbone of the show. She has been the constant through every cast change, crossover, and crisis, and her dedication both on-screen and off has earned her legions of devoted fans. Benson’s longevity is more than just a record — it’s television history.

Ice-T — Odafin “Fin” Tutuola (Seasons 2–26)

Joining the series in its second season, Ice-T’s Fin Tutuola brought a cool, no-nonsense edge to the team. Originally transferring from Narcotics, Fin was skeptical of the sensitive nature of the SVU’s cases. But over time, his sharp instincts, dry humor, and loyalty turned him into one of the show’s most beloved characters.

From his early days as the tough outsider to his current role as a trusted veteran detective, Fin’s evolution has been subtle but deeply rewarding. Ice-T’s portrayal has given the character depth, warmth, and consistency — a rarity in long-running television. Twenty-five years later, Fin remains one of the few characters who can balance dark humor with heart, always reminding fans that beneath his tough exterior lies a man who genuinely cares.

Christopher Meloni — Elliot Stabler (Seasons 1–12, Guest in Later Seasons)

When SVU began, Christopher Meloni’s Detective Elliot Stabler was the perfect counterpart to Olivia Benson. His intensity, temper, and unwavering sense of justice made him a fan favorite. For 12 seasons, Benson and Stabler’s partnership defined the show — a blend of trust, tension, and unspoken understanding.

Meloni’s departure in season 12 left fans heartbroken, but his 2021 return to the franchise in Law & Order: Organized Crime reignited that spark. Though Stabler’s path has taken him in new directions, his legacy in SVU remains undeniable. The reunion between Benson and Stabler in recent crossovers reminded viewers just how powerful their connection still is — proof that some partnerships never truly end.

Dann Florek — Donald Cragen (Seasons 1–15)

As Captain Donald Cragen, Dann Florek was the steady hand guiding the squad through some of its most turbulent years. His character, who originally appeared in the original Law & Order series, brought wisdom, structure, and dry humor to the SVU team. In the early seasons, Cragen’s role as mentor to Benson and Stabler was crucial, often grounding them when emotions ran high.

Florek’s final episodes were bittersweet, with Cragen retiring from the NYPD but leaving behind an indelible mark on the show. His leadership and compassion helped shape SVU into the series it is today, and longtime fans still miss his calm authority.

Kelli Giddish — Amanda Rollins (Seasons 13–24)

When Kelli Giddish joined the cast in season 13 as Detective Amanda Rollins, she brought a complex new energy to the team. Rollins’ southern charm, intelligence, and troubled past made her an instant standout. Over time, she grew from a guarded newcomer into one of Benson’s most trusted allies.

Her exit in season 24 left fans emotional, as Rollins embarked on a new chapter as a college professor while balancing her growing family. Giddish’s portrayal of Rollins added layers to the show’s dynamic, proving that vulnerability and strength can coexist beautifully.

Richard Belzer — John Munch (Seasons 1–15)

Richard Belzer’s John Munch was the conspiracy-theorist detective with a sharp wit and skeptical worldview. Having first appeared on Homicide: Life on the Street, Munch carried his unique blend of humor and cynicism into SVU. For 15 seasons, he provided comic relief and unexpected insight, often the first to see through lies and facades.

When Munch retired, it felt like the end of an era. Belzer’s performance was a perfect example of how a supporting character can become essential to the show’s fabric. His passing in 2023 only deepened fans’ appreciation for the unforgettable role he played.

The Legacy Lives On

From the early days of the Benson-Stabler partnership to the modern era of leadership and legacy, Law & Order: SVU has evolved while staying true to its roots — justice, empathy, and resilience. With 26 seasons and counting, the series continues to redefine television longevity, anchored by Mariska Hargitay’s extraordinary portrayal of Olivia Benson.

As fans look back at the cast’s first and last moments, one thing is clear: SVU isn’t just a show — it’s a cultural institution. The faces may change, but its heart remains the same.