Law & Order has long been the unofficial Hollywood training ground, launching countless careers. If you’ve ever watched an episode, chances are you’ve seen a now-famous A-lister playing a detective, victim, or even a suspect. The 2025 SAG Awards were filled with stars who once had their humble beginnings solving (or committing) crimes in the Law & Order universe. Let’s take a deep dive into all the big names at this year’s SAGs who once appeared in the legendary crime series.
A Hollywood Rite of Passage: The Law & Order Legacy
Before we jump into the celebs, let’s talk about why Law & Order has been such a crucial stepping stone for actors. With multiple spin-offs (SVU, Criminal Intent, Organized Crime), it has provided opportunities for rising stars for decades. The episodic format allows young actors to showcase their skills, often in intense, dramatic roles.
Biggest SAG Nominees Who Starred on Law & Order
1. Jennifer Aniston – Before Friends, She Was Solving Crimes
Long before she became America’s sweetheart, Jennifer Aniston had a guest role on Law & Order in the early ’90s. Now, she’s a SAG nominee for her critically acclaimed role in The Morning Show.
2. Bradley Cooper – From Small-Time Criminal to Leading Man
Did you know that Bradley Cooper appeared in Law & Order: SVU? Before A Star Is Born made him a Hollywood powerhouse, he played a sketchy character on the iconic crime series.
3. Scarlett Johansson – A Teenage Guest Star Turned Hollywood Icon
Scarlett Johansson’s first major TV role? You guessed it—an appearance on Law & Order. Today, she’s one of the biggest names at the SAG Awards, thanks to her powerhouse performances.
4. Adam Driver – From Marine to Law & Order to SAG Royalty
Adam Driver’s rise to fame included a stop on Law & Order: SVU. His raw talent was already evident, foreshadowing his future as an Oscar and SAG-nominated actor.
5. Julia Roberts – A Guest Star Before Becoming America’s Sweetheart
Even Julia Roberts made a one-time appearance on the show. Fast forward to 2025, and she’s still dominating the red carpet and award season.
More SAG Stars You Forgot Were on Law & Order
6. Mahershala Ali – Before Oscars, He Was Solving Crimes
Mahershala Ali may be a two-time Academy Award winner now, but back in the day, he had a guest role on Law & Order: SVU.
7. Regina King – From Courtrooms to Red Carpets
Regina King is one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood today, but her early TV work included a stint on Law & Order.
8. Angela Bassett – A Law & Order Veteran
Angela Bassett made her mark in multiple Law & Order episodes, proving that even future Oscar nominees had their start in procedural dramas.
9. Mark Ruffalo – From Guest Star to Superhero
Yes, even the Hulk himself had a role in Law & Order before smashing onto the big screen as a Marvel superhero.
10. Elisabeth Moss – A Young Talent on SVU
Before The Handmaid’s Tale, Elisabeth Moss made an appearance on Law & Order: SVU, showing early signs of her Emmy-winning talent.
Why Law & Order Is the Ultimate Hollywood Bootcamp
- A Platform for New Talent – Many actors land their first major TV role on the show.
- Acting Under Pressure – The series demands emotionally intense performances.
- Networking with Hollywood’s Best – Directors and producers often remember standout performances for future projects.
Conclusion
It’s no surprise that so many 2025 SAG nominees got their start on Law & Order. The show has served as a career-launching pad for some of Hollywood’s biggest names. Whether they played a detective, a lawyer, or a criminal, these actors used their time on the series as a stepping stone to stardom. Next time you watch Law & Order, keep an eye out—you might be watching the next SAG Award winner in the making.
