Law & Order: SVU Renewed for Record-Setting 21st Season

With NBC’s renewal of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit for a 21st season, the drama sets a new record as the longest-running prime-time live-action series in U.S. TV history.

The record surpasses the longstanding previous mark of 20 seasons set by the original Law & Order (1990 to 2010) and Gunsmoke (1955 to 1975). To date, SVU has been sold to more than 250 territories around the world.

Paul Telegdy and George Cheeks, co-chairmen of NBC Entertainment, said: “We tip our cap to Dick Wolf, Mariska Hargitay and the amazing cast and crew of SVU, who now all go into the record book. This incredible run is an example of what happens when producers, writers and actors all come together and create a show that, year after year, speaks to its audience in a powerful way. We couldn’t be more proud of this remarkable achievement.”

“As SVU moves into its third decade, Mariska has become an iconic figure as a star, advocate and crusader for women,” said creator and executive producer Dick Wolf. “She is an enduring champion of the movement to end sexual violence, and dozens of episodes have dealt with the very same issues that have shifted into the spotlight in this country in the past two years. Mariska is a delight as number one on the call sheet and, to me, a true friend.”

“I’m deeply proud to be a part of this groundbreaking show and humbled to make television history today,” said lead actress Mariska Hargitay. “The longevity and continued success of SVU is a testament not only to the show’s powerful storytelling and ability to connect with viewers but to its necessity. We have told important stories for 20 years, and we will continue to tell them.”