Kelli Giddish is back, and fans of Law & Order: SVU couldn’t be happier! The actress, who portrayed Detective Amanda Rollins for 11 seasons, is making waves once again as she returns for a special episode on October 17. Giddish brings a mix of excitement and nostalgia as she dives back into the role, and there’s so much to discuss about what’s changed for Rollins and her relationships with other characters.
Amanda Rollins: A New Chapter
After a long and tumultuous journey, Amanda Rollins is stepping into a new role within the NYPD. Giddish shared insights about Rollins’ career shift, revealing that she’s transitioned from teaching to working in the Intelligence Bureau. Plus, she’s been promoted to Sergeant!
The Evolution of Rollins
Giddish explains how this new position offers a fresh perspective on her character. “It’s been really interesting talking with [showrunner] David Graziano about this particular division of the NYPD. It’s really piqued my interest,” she noted. This change not only marks a professional milestone for Rollins but also reflects her personal growth.
Rollins has faced numerous challenges in her past, but her current relationship with A.D.A. Dominick “Sonny” Carisi adds a layer of stability. Giddish elaborates, “When you have a person like Carisi at home, you’re more secure in the choices you make.” It’s a refreshing take on Rollins, showcasing her resilience while maintaining that fierce determination to catch the bad guys.
The Dynamic Between Rollins and Benson
One of the standout relationships in SVU has always been between Amanda Rollins and Captain Olivia Benson. Over the years, their bond has grown from mere colleagues to a deep, trusting friendship.
A Unique Understanding
Giddish sheds light on their current dynamic: “There’s definitely a friendship there. They both have children and take their work seriously, so they understand each other in a way that no one else can.” This unique connection allows them to communicate truths that might be hard to express to anyone else. It’s a relationship built on mutual respect and shared experiences, which adds a rich layer to the show.
Kelli Giddish’s Personal Journey
Reflecting on her journey both on and off screen, Giddish has experienced significant life changes while portraying Rollins. “It’s hard to put into words what I’ve taken from all of this,” she shares. “So much life has happened for me during my time on the show.” From getting married to having kids and then remarrying, Giddish sees parallels between her life and Rollins’ experiences. “Maybe that’s why I like revisiting her so much,” she muses.
Finding Balance
Giddish admits that the show has offered her a unique space to grow. Coming from a more action-packed role in Chase, she found SVU to be a refreshing change, allowing her to explore deeper, more cerebral themes. “I really like that,” she says, highlighting how SVU has challenged her as an actress while allowing her to connect with the material on a profound level.
The Importance of Family and Fun on Set
One of Giddish’s fondest memories involves her beloved dog, Frannie, who has been a constant companion during her time on SVU. “She was a puppy when I first brought her to set, and now she’s 14,” Giddish reflects. The bond she has with her pet mirrors the familial connections formed on set.
The Joys of Working Together
Giddish fondly recalls the laughter and camaraderie among the cast and crew. “I realized when I left the show how much I laughed there,” she admits. “The material is heavy, but we always had such a good time.” It’s this blend of seriousness and fun that made her time on SVU so special, and it’s something she misses deeply.
What’s Next for Kelli Giddish?
While Giddish is excited about her return to SVU, she’s also looking to the future. She mentions that she’s developing a couple of new shows, indicating that her creative juices are still flowing. However, her heart remains with SVU, as Graziano has envisioned Rollins appearing in “a bouquet of episodes” this season, a phrase Giddish finds delightful.
Gratitude to the Fans
Above all, Giddish wants to express her heartfelt appreciation to the fans. “Honestly, I just want to thank all the fans who’ve shown so much support for me,” she says. The excitement from viewers when Rollins makes an appearance truly means a lot to her, reminding her of the special connection she shares with her audience.
Conclusion
Kelli Giddish’s return to Law & Order: SVU is a much-anticipated event that promises to deliver emotional depth and thrilling narratives. As Amanda Rollins continues to evolve, we’re sure to see her tackle new challenges while deepening her relationships with characters like Olivia Benson and Dominick Carisi. Giddish’s journey reflects not just the character’s growth but her personal milestones as well, making her return all the more meaningful.
FAQ
Will Kelli Giddish be appearing in more episodes of SVU this season?
Yes! Kelli Giddish is expected to appear in several episodes this season, with showrunner David Graziano envisioning her in “a bouquet of episodes.” Fans can look forward to seeing more of Amanda Rollins in action!
