Mariska Hargitay opens up about the emotional farewell to a beloved character, leaving fans in tears.
The iconic Law & Order: SVU series kicked off its 27th season with a shocking twist, bidding farewell to Captain Donald Cragen, portrayed by the talented Dann Florek. Although Florek departed the show in 2014 when his character retired, the recent episode brought the team together for an emotional funeral. Mariska Hargitay, who plays the lead detective, described filming this scene as an intense and 'rough' experience, despite the character's death being fictional.
In a recent interview on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Hargitay reflected on the loss, stating, 'We lost Captain Cragen. It was a tough one!' The episode was a reunion of sorts, with former cast members B.D. Wong, Dean Winters, and Christopher Melloni returning for the funeral scene, adding to the poignancy of the moment. Hargitay attributed the powerful performance to the genuine love and respect the cast has for each other and the departed character.
But here's where it gets personal: Hargitay also hinted at the real-life loss of some of their co-stars, making this episode even more emotional. The cast has endured the passing of Richard Belzer in 2023, adding another layer of authenticity to their performances.
In a refreshing twist, the show's new showrunner, Michele Fazekas, is a woman, marking a significant milestone. Hargitay expressed her pride in the show's evolution and her enthusiasm for Fazekas' return, having previously worked on the show in the early 2000s. Fazekas promises a return to the show's roots, with a focus on the cases that made the series famous, while also introducing new elements to keep viewers on their toes. But is it possible to balance nostalgia with innovation in a long-running series? That's the question that has fans divided.
What do you think? Are you excited for the new season's blend of old and new? Or do you think the show should stick to its original formula? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
