The emotional impact of losing a beloved character on Law & Order: SVU has left a mark on Mariska Hargitay. In a recent interview, she opened up about the 'rough' experience of filming the funeral scene for Captain Donald Cragen, played by Dann Florek. Despite Florek's character retiring in 2014, the episode's secrecy surrounding Cragen's death added an air of mystery and sadness.
During her appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Mariska acknowledged the show's longevity, which has allowed for such powerful moments. The funeral scene, which brought back beloved characters like Special Agent George Huang and Detective Brian Cassidy, was a testament to the genuine love and respect the cast has for each other and their roles.
"These scenes are a result of our shared experiences," Mariska explained, "There's an authenticity to it because we've lived through these moments together."
But here's where it gets controversial... Mariska also highlighted the show's first female showrunner, Michele Fazekas, and her impact on the new season. With Fazekas at the helm, Mariska believes the show has undergone an incredible renewal, with a fresh perspective and a powerful female-led team.
"I wanted a female showrunner, and Michele's brilliance shines through. Her episodes are my favorites, and her return has brought a new energy to the show," Mariska shared.
And this is the part most people miss... Fazekas, in an interview with People, revealed her plans to take the show back to its roots while also introducing new elements. She spoke about the new producing director, cameras, and set changes, all while giving the beloved character, Benson, new challenges to tackle.
So, what do you think? Is this a refreshing take on a long-running show, or does it risk losing its original charm? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
