‘Law & Order: SVU’ Makes History With 21st Season, Now The ‘Longest Running Drama In TV History’

‘Law & Order: SVU’ Makes History With 21st Season, Now The ‘Longest Running Drama In TV History’

Law & Order: SVU has been binge-worthy for years thanks to its two decades on the air. And the show doesn’t display any signs of slowing down soon.

Ice T, who joined the series in its second season, said via Twitter that the show is gearing up for its 21st season, which is record-breaking for shows in its genre.

“SVU has OFFICIALLY picked up for season #21. Making us the longest running drama in Television History! Respect to the man Dick Wolf @NBCUniversal @Mariska @KelliGiddish @PeterScanavino @philipwinchestr and all my past and present Cast and Crew! And definitely ALL the fans!

He added a snapshot of him with the creator of the series Dick Wolf in Friday’s post.

Co-Chairmen of NBC Entertainment, Paul Telegdy and George Cheeks, said during the network’s announcement,

“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.”

The upcoming season is also major for Mariska Hargitay, who has portrayed Olivia Benson for the entire run of the show. She is now the longest-running character in a primetime live-action series, beating Gunsmoke stars James Arness and Milburn Stone as well as Kelsey Grammer, who played Frasier Crane for 20 consecutive seasons, according to reports.

Mariska Hargitay

Ice T and Mariska Hargitay

Wolf also had a few words for Hargitay. 

“As SVU moves into its third decade, Mariska has become an iconic figure as a star, advocate and crusader for women. 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 #1 on the call sheet and, to me, a true friend.”

Law & Order: SVU has been using headlines for some of its most powerful episodes. Back in 2013, the series featured the story of Trayvon Martin, an unarmed Florida teen who was shot and killed in 2012.

Trayvon Martin

Will you be watching the upcoming season of Law & Order: SVU? Tell us in the comments!