Latest 'Law & Order: SVU' cast update and spoilers revealed that there might be no new love interest for Olivia Benson in Season 17. Still, many are hopeful for it. Meanwhile, Executive producer defends that they never intend to kick Stabler out by saying it all came from the character.
When Season 16 ended with Benson becoming a mother and Amaro departing the NYPD and the series, fans are now wondering what could happen to 'Law & Order: SVU' Season 17 in the fall on NBC?
In a recent interview, executive producer Warren Leight answered many questions about the series and talked what fans should fans expect to see in Season 17.
While Mariska Hargitay's character has had romantic storylines, it has never been the focus to force her into a relationship. In regards to Olivia Benson new love interest in Season 17, Warren Leight had to say: "There will be a lot of change next year for all of our characters ... I don't know that she needs a man. Usually those things happen when you're not looking for them."
Meanwhile, many fans were picking apart the idea to call back to Stabler in Benson's pep talk to Amaro, which many think it's unnecessary. But, the EP revealed that no one is dissing Stabler.
Leight said, "I think these people are just looking to feel like we're dissing Stabler. I really feel that's not what that scene was about. She said, "My relationship with him didn't allow growth." That's a statement of fact. There was obviously a great love between the two of them, but there was an element of codependence to it. After he left, other things opened up for Olivia Benson. She's a sergeant, she's on the road to lieutenant, she has a foster child she just adopted. She was stuck for a while, which, by the way, is also not throwing shade on Stabler. That may be a reflection of who she is in that relationship."
Leigh also added that the idea came from the character and they never intended that. 'Law & Order: SVU' Season 17 will air NBC this fall with all new episodes.
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