For over two decades, Mariska Hargitay has been synonymous with Olivia Benson, the fearless and compassionate detective on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU). But did you know that before she landed the role, several other actresses were considered?
Casting choices can make or break a show, and SVU almost had a completely different lead. In this article, we’ll dive into the actresses who were in the running for the role before Mariska Hargitay made it legendary.
The Search for Olivia Benson – A Crucial Casting Decision
When Law & Order: SVU was in development in the late 1990s, producers knew they needed the perfect Olivia Benson. She had to be tough, empathetic, and charismatic enough to lead a show about the darkest crimes imaginable.
NBC and creator Dick Wolf auditioned several actresses before settling on Hargitay. Let’s take a look at the stars who came close to playing Olivia Benson.
1. Samantha Mathis – The First Choice?
One of the early front-runners was Samantha Mathis, best known for films like American Psycho and Broken Arrow. Her blend of toughness and vulnerability made her a strong contender.
However, sources suggest she turned it down due to concerns about committing to a long-term TV role. Had she accepted, SVU might have looked very different today.
2. Reiko Aylesworth – A Near Miss
Reiko Aylesworth, famous for playing Michelle Dessler on 24, also auditioned for Olivia Benson. She had the intensity and dramatic chops, but casting directors felt she lacked the warmth that Hargitay naturally exuded.
Aylesworth eventually found success elsewhere, but imagine how different Benson’s character might have been in her hands!
3. Connie Nielsen – A Studio Favorite
Before her role on Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Danish actress Connie Nielsen was considered for SVU. Having starred in Gladiator and The Devil’s Advocate, she had the gravitas to handle tough cases.
In the end, producers wanted an American actress for the role, leading Nielsen to take on another role in the Law & Order franchise years later.
4. Jeri Ryan – Too Busy with Star Trek?
Best known for playing Seven of Nine on Star Trek: Voyager, Jeri Ryan was another name tossed around for the role of Olivia Benson. Her sharp acting skills and commanding presence made her a strong candidate.
However, Ryan was still tied up with Star Trek, and scheduling conflicts kept her from joining SVU.
5. Melina Kanakaredes – Almost Olivia Benson
Before starring in CSI: NY, Melina Kanakaredes was in serious talks for the role. She had the perfect blend of toughness and sensitivity.
However, Kanakaredes was also being considered for Providence, a medical drama that ended up being a better fit for her at the time.
Why Mariska Hargitay Was the Perfect Choice
After considering multiple actresses, the producers ultimately chose Mariska Hargitay, and it’s clear why.
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Authenticity – Hargitay’s ability to convey both strength and compassion was unmatched.
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Chemistry – Her dynamic with co-star Christopher Meloni (Elliot Stabler) was instant and electric.
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Commitment – She fully embraced the role, even training as a real-life advocate for sexual assault survivors.
Hargitay’s casting turned out to be a stroke of genius, as she has since won multiple awards and become a cultural icon.
The Impact of Olivia Benson on TV History
Olivia Benson isn’t just a TV character—she’s a role model. Hargitay’s portrayal has inspired countless women to join law enforcement and advocacy programs.
Her longevity on TV also broke records, making her one of the longest-running female leads in prime-time history.
What If Someone Else Had Played Olivia Benson?
It’s fascinating to think about what SVU might have looked like with another actress in the lead. Would the show have lasted as long? Would it have had the same impact?
While these other actresses were talented, it’s hard to imagine anyone but Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson.
Conclusion
Casting decisions shape the success of a show, and Law & Order: SVU struck gold with Mariska Hargitay. While several talented actresses were considered, none had the same chemistry, depth, and passion that Hargitay brought to the role.
In the end, Olivia Benson became more than just a character—she became a symbol of justice, resilience, and hope. And for that, we can all be grateful that the role landed in the hands of the perfect actress.
