Law & Order: SVU fans will be thrilled to learn that as amazing as Mariska Hargitay is on-screen as Olivia Benson, she’s an even more amazing supporter and friend to the cast and crew long after the cameras turn off.
In fact, folks saw it firsthand last week when Mariska shared a few behind-the-scenes selfies on Instagram celebrating two of her castmates — the beloved Peter Scanavino, who has played Dominick Carisi since 2013, and newcomer Octavio Pisano, who only recently joined the Law and Order: SVU cast as Joe Velasco.
The 59 year old shared the post on February 24 after the release of the 15th episode of season 24. Mariska used her caption to express the respect and admiration she has for the two and their recent performances. “Thank you for trusting me and thank you for just making everything better. ♥️#KingOfTheMoon,” she wrote.
Reacting to the heartfelt message, Law and Order: SVU fans wasted no time taking to the Instagam comments section to share their own words of love and support.
“Brilliant acting and direction!!! [I am] is very proud to follow this show of quality ❤️,” one person wrote. “Amazing JOB….everyone brought forth their A-game,” another added. “My favorite people [on the] planet ❤️,” a different follower said.
The most recent episode, titled “King of the Moon,” wasn’t just a special episode because it was directed by Mariska herself. It came on the heels of the news that former cast member Richard Belzer died at the age of 78 on February 19. Best known for playing Detective John Munch, the actor was featured on the show from season 1 in 1999 through season 14 in 2013. In honor of his memory, Mariska dedicated her episode to him.
“I feel blessed to have known you and adored you and worked with you, side by side, for so many years,” Mariska wrote of her late friend on Instagram. “How lucky the angels are to have you.”
The final episode of season 24 premieres on March 23 at 8 p.m. EST.
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Annie O’Sullivan (she/her) covers holiday, gift guide, travel, and lifestyle content at Good Housekeeping. She has a degree in magazine journalism from Syracuse University and previously reported for Runner’s World, NBC New York/NY 4 and Woman’s Day. Annie also has experience writing entertainment news and celebrity-focused content.