In “Law & Order: SVU,” Mariska Hargitay and Chris Meloni’s characters were forbidden from intertwining romantically, fueling intense curiosity among viewers.

 

Law & Order Svu': Mariska Hargitay Couldn't Have Love Interests With Chris Meloni on the Show - IMDb

Law & Order Svu went through a bit of a transition period after Chris Meloni left. The actor’s sudden departure allowed the series to explore one particular storyline with Mariska Hargitay that she couldn’t with Meloni in the picture.

Chris Meloni’s exit let Mariska Hargitay have love interests in ‘Law & Order Svu’ Mariska Hargitay and Chris Meloni | Chris Delmas /Getty Images

The complexion of Law & Order and its characters shifted a little bit after Meloni’s unexpected departure from the show. Hargitay spoke at length about how devastated she was after she lost her co-star, so much so she considered leaving the show, too. But Hargitay’s Olivia Benson was met with new challenges and stories that convinced the actor to remain on the series. This included getting to know a brand new cast of actors and characters.