For nearly three decades, Mariska Hargitay has been the beating heart of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and now NBC is giving her a well-deserved spotlight. The network has announced a special marathon dedicated to Hargitay's Emmy-nominated and Emmy-winning turns as Olivia Benson, airing exactly one month before the show's historic Season 28 debut.
The marathon, set for Thursday, Sept. 10, will feature three pivotal episodes that showcase Hargitay's range and emotional depth. Kicking off at 8 PM ET is “Charisma” from Season 6, followed by the Season 7 episode “911” at 9 PM ET—the installment that earned Hargitay her first Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006. The night wraps with “Undercover” from Season 9 at 10 PM ET, another Emmy-nominated performance.
This tribute comes as Hargitay prepares to host the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sept. 14, adding another layer to her already storied career. But the celebration doesn't stop there. Law & Order: SVU returns for its 28th season on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 9 PM ET/PT on NBC, with episodes streaming the following day on Peacock. The season will also mark a major milestone: surpassing 600 episodes, cementing the series' place as the longest-running live-action primetime drama in American television history.
Hargitay's impact on the show extends beyond her acting. She also serves as an executive producer and director, helping shape the series' narrative and its sensitive handling of sexual crimes. The show follows the NYPD's Special Victims Unit as they investigate these cases while offering survivors support and justice—a mission that has resonated with audiences for over 27 seasons.
Joining Hargitay in the squad room are familiar faces and new additions alike. Ice-T returns as Odafin “Fin” Tutuola, while Peter Scanavino reprises his role as Dominick Carisi Jr. The cast also includes Kevin Kane as Terry Bruno, Juliana Aidén Martinez as Kate Silva, and Aimé Donna Kelly as Renee Curry.
As the series gears up for another season, fans can relive some of Hargitay's most powerful moments in the Sept. 10 marathon. It's a fitting tribute to an actress who has become synonymous with the role, and a reminder of why SVU remains a cultural touchstone. For those eager for more crime drama, Blue Lights returns for a fourth season on BritBox this fall, offering another gritty look at police work.
With the Emmy Awards just days after the marathon, Hargitay's star power will be on full display. And when SVU returns in October, it promises to deliver the same gripping storytelling that has kept viewers hooked for decades. Mark your calendars—this is a celebration you won't want to miss.
