Mariska Hargitay’s Dream Benson & Stabler Scenario Is The Worst Thing For Law & Order Fans

As a devoted fan of “Law & Order: SVU,” I can’t help but feel a pang of potential letdown following Mariska Hargitay’s latest remarks about the timeline for Benson and Stabler to reunite. Ever since the series debuted in 1999, the dynamic between these two characters has been a favorite among viewers. Although their relationship started as purely platonic, the palpable chemistry between them had many of us hoping they would eventually find themselves falling for each other.

For the first 12 years of his career, Stabler was contentedly married. Yet, when his spouse passed away during the first season of Law & Order: Organized Crime, it paved the way for Benson and Stabler to develop romantic feelings towards each other over time.

Initially, it appeared as though “Law & Order: SVU” Season 24 was moving towards a certain direction; however, they decided against pursuing that idea. Moreover, Mariska Hargitay’s recent statements contradict the possibility of a change in “Law & Order: SVU” Season 27.

Mariska Hargitay Says That Benson & Stabler Should Be Together At The End Of Law & Order

The Actress Suggested This Might Be The Best Time For The Pair To Unite Romantically

Mariska Hargitay, who has portrayed Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU for 25 years, openly acknowledges her preference for Benson and Stabler to explore a romantic relationship. Given her deep understanding of these characters, she recognizes the possibility in this pairing. However, recent statements from Hargitay hint that she believes the perfect moment for such a development might be less imminent than fans anticipate.

In her latest remarks, Hargitay hinted that the finale could potentially be the time for the romantic connection between the characters. However, she emphasized that it should only happen if it aligns with the plot, and whether they end up together remains to be seen as the story unfolds.

Why Saving Benson & Stabler’s Relationship Until The Very End Of Law & Order Is Such A Bad Idea

Benson/Stabler Shippers Deserve A Bigger Payoff After Waiting So Many Years

It makes sense that Hargitay’s idea follows a particular logic. After all, Olivia Benson has consistently been shown as a strong, self-reliant woman whose primary focus is assisting victims to achieve the justice and healing they deserve. Consequently, if Stabler and Benson were to form a romantic relationship too soon, it might disrupt the fundamental concept of the series in order to give this romantic storyline its due.

In addition, they are both appearing in distinct television series at present. However, the scenario resembling the FBI franchise’s Nina and Scola, though romantically involved, cohabiting, and raising a child together, seldom shares screen time, poses a challenge. Consequently, resolving this logistical issue is crucial first.

It’s been hinted that Benson and Stabler might form a romantic relationship on Law & Order: SVU ever since his comeback. The show almost fulfilled viewers’ expectations of seeing them together in season 24, but instead opted to keep them apart in the following two seasons.

In simpler terms, not waiting until the last episode might be more satisfying for viewers eager to find out what transpires between the characters post their declaration of love, as they’re currently frustrated by the ongoing back-and-forth about their relationship.

When Law & Order Should Bring Benson & Stabler Together

Hargitay Is Right About The Timing Needing To Be Perfect

Hargitay suggests that she’d favor Benson and Stabler ending up together in the final episode if it aligns with the storyline. She’s correct about maintaining consistency with their characters, but it’s better to resolve their ongoing dynamic earlier on in the story development.

To ensure a satisfying development for the characters of Law & Order: SVU, particularly Benson and Stabler, the show needs to solidify their relationship if they are to be portrayed as a couple. Starting from season 27, their interactions should become more frequent, allowing their bond to deepen organically, leading to them becoming a couple when it feels appropriate.

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2025-07-06 20:27