Law & Order: SVU Returns with a Landmark Season 25 Premiere
“The Things We Carry” Sets the Stage for an Unforgettable Season
New York, NY – September 23, 2023 – The iconic crime drama Law & Order: SVU made a triumphant return to NBC for its landmark 25th season, marking a milestone in television history. The season premiere, titled “The Things We Carry,” delivered a captivating blend of heart-wrenching storylines, thrilling investigations, and poignant character moments, setting the stage for an unforgettable season.
A Joyous Occasion Overshadowed by Darkness
The episode opens on a celebratory note, as the SVU squad gathers to witness the christening of Rollins (Kelli Giddish) and Carisi’s (Peter Scanavino) baby. This moment of joy, however, is soon overshadowed by the disappearance of a teenage girl, Maddie Flynn, in broad daylight. As Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) emerges from the Battery Tunnel after attending the christening, she witnesses Maddie being abducted into a van.
Haunted by what she saw, Benson becomes consumed by the case, determined to find Maddie and bring her home safely. However, she faces a challenge in revealing her role as a witness, as it could jeopardize the investigation.
Delving into a Twisted Underworld
The investigation takes a dark turn when the SVU team uncovers a sinister network involved in the creation and distribution of sex dolls resembling young girls. Maddie’s likeness has been used in this disturbing line of dolls, leading them to a man who paid to have her abducted.
The case becomes even more complex when the team discovers that Maddie is not the only victim. They locate another girl who had been missing for longer, but the episode ends with Maddie’s fate still unknown, leaving her mother distraught and interrupting a hastily arranged press conference.
A Haunting Episode that Leaves a Lasting Impact
“The Things We Carry” stands out as an unforgettable episode in Law & Order: SVU‘s long-running history. The creep factor associated with the sex doll storyline and the lack of resolution regarding Maddie’s disappearance leave a lasting impact on viewers, making it a truly indelible installment.
Behind-the-Scenes: A Team Effort to Overcome Challenges
The production of Law & Order: SVU‘s 25th season faced unique challenges due to the recent strikes by writers and actors. However, the team, led by showrunners and executive producers Peter Jankowski and Arthur Forney, along with the unwavering dedication of series lead Mariska Hargitay, worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth and successful return to the air.
Jankowski and Forney, both with Wolf Entertainment since the inception of SVU in 1998, credit Hargitay’s leadership and unwavering commitment to the series as a key factor in maintaining the show’s exceptional quality.
A Reflection on 25 Seasons of SVU
As Law & Order: SVU embarks on its 25th season, it continues to captivate audiences with its unflinching portrayal of real-world issues, its compelling characters, and its unwavering dedication to justice. The season premiere serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the series and promises an exciting and impactful season ahead.
Don’t miss the next episode of Law & Order: SVU, airing Thursdays at 9/8c on NBC.