Mariska Hargitay has a vast selection of over 500 episodes from which to select her favorites from the acclaimed Law & Order: Special Victims Unit series. As the longest-running and most successful spinoff of the original Law & Order, Hargitay has been a defining figure since the inception of the show. While the original series concentrated on major crimes, often involving intricate murder mysteries, SVU delves into crimes of a sexual nature. Despite the often harrowing themes, the exceptional performances and riveting storytelling ensure that fans remain invested.
In a special magazine issue commemorating the 25th anniversary of SVU, TV Guide sought to elicit insights from both past and present cast members about their favorite episodes, along with behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Responses varied significantly, often shaped by which episodes marked a departure from typical storytelling. Interestingly, Hargitay expressed that she found it nearly impossible to single out just one favorite episode.
Mariska Hargitay’s Favorite Episodes Break Tradition in Season 15
Hargitay’s Top Episodes Feature a Recurring Antagonist
When asked by TV Guide to recount her favorite episodes, Mariska Hargitay identified an entire narrative arc rather than a single episode. She particularly cherished the storyline involving her character, Olivia Benson, and the harrowing encounters with the character William Lewis, portrayed by Pablo Schreiber. This arc involved stalking, kidnapping, and intense psychological manipulation, a shift that allowed the show to explore “uncharted territory.” Hargitay shared her thoughts:
Pablo Schreiber played a psychotic killer who twice kidnapped and tortured [Olivia Benson]. We definitely went into some uncharted territory there. The goal is to surprise yourself and truly be in a moment. I felt like we achieved that.
While the arc commenced in season 14, it carried through into season 15, where Hargitay dubbed the premiere “the most difficult episode” she had filmed to that point, in an interview with TODAY. This storyline not only tested her limits but also reignited her passion for acting and commitment to living in the moment as her character. This plotline shifted Olivia Benson’s narrative from mere investigator to survivor.
Historically, Law & Order: SVU didn’t often feature story arcs that extended to multiple episodes, particularly in its early seasons. However, season 15 was largely dedicated to exploring the psychological aftermath of Benson’s trauma inflicted by Lewis, offering viewers a more nuanced understanding of her character beyond the role of investigator.
|
William Lewis Episodes |
Season & Episode Number |
|---|---|
|
“Her Negotiation” |
Season 14, Episode 24 |
|
“Surrender Benson” |
Season 15, Episode 1 |
|
“Imprisoned Lives” |
Season 15, Episode 2 |
|
“American Tragedy” |
Season 15, Episode 3 |
|
“Psycho/Therapist” |
Season 15, Episode 10 |
|
“Wednesday’s Child” |
Season 15, Episode 14 |
|
“Beast’s Obsession” |
Season 15, Episode 20 |
|
“Post-Mortem Blues” |
Season 15, Episode 21 |
Hargitay’s Best Episode Is From Season 7
Hargitay Won an Emmy for the Episode
While Hargitay’s preferred episodes hail from season 15, her most celebrated performance stems from Season 7, Episode 3, entitled “911.” This particular episode stands out as a fan favorite and holds a 9.3 out of 10 rating on IMDb, making it the highest-rated episode in the series.
The emotional weight of this episode relies heavily on Hargitay’s performance as it significantly deviates from the traditional Law & Order format. Instead of following the typical investigation and courtroom proceedings, “911” centers on a tense call between Benson and a frightened nine-year-old girl trapped in her room.
When the girl, claiming to be in danger, contacts emergency services, her call is rerouted to the Special Victims Unit. Although many assume that the girl, “Maria,” may simply be prank calling, Benson’s unwavering belief in her story catalyzes the unfolding drama. Hargitay’s nuanced performance is critical, as the episode captures her conversations with Maria primarily through speakerphone.
For her compelling role in this groundbreaking episode, Hargitay made history by becoming the first main cast member in the entire Law & Order franchise to secure a Primetime Emmy Award. This recognition not only solidified her status as a leading actress in an ensemble setting but also earned her a Golden Globe in 2005.
What SVU Learned from “911”
“911” Encouraged the Adoption of More Character-Driven Narratives
The impact of “911” was significant in urging the show to embrace innovative storytelling approaches. This episode showcased that SVU could deviate from the usual Law & Order formula, leading to the introduction of more recurring villains, multi-part story arcs, and depth in character-driven plots.
Moreover, “911” laid the groundwork for a story arc revisited nearly two decades later when Benson reunited with Maria in 2024, now an adult police officer. This continuation not only provided closure for Benson, revealing the profound influence she had on Maria’s life, but it also reinforced the importance of the original story.
Later in 2025, Maria’s return became one steeped in tragedy. However, such impactful narratives would not have been possible without “911.” This episode played a vital role in shaping how writers approached character development, allowing them to craft compelling backstories that resonated with viewers.
Despite Hargitay’s affection for season 15 of Law & Order: SVU, the episode “911” remains the pinnacle of her achievements on the show. Its legacy is evident in the iconic status SVU has achieved today.