Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU) remains one of television’s most enduring and gripping crime dramas. Now in its historic Season 27, the series continues to deliver powerful stories about justice, trauma, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Led by the iconic Captain Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay), the Manhattan SVU squad tackles some of the most complex and emotionally charged cases week after week.
If you’re wondering “When is the next Law & Order: SVU episode?” or looking for this week’s SVU air dates and schedule, you’ve come to the right place. In this complete guide, we’ll break down the current airing schedule, highlight what to expect from upcoming episodes, share how to watch live or stream, and explore why SVU continues to dominate Thursday nights on NBC.
Why Law & Order: SVU Still Rules Primetime in 2026
Since its debut in 1999, Law & Order: SVU has become the longest-running primetime live-action series in American television history. With over 580 episodes aired and counting, the show has tackled difficult subjects with sensitivity, depth, and unflinching realism.
Key reasons fans stay loyal season after season:
- Mariska Hargitay’s powerhouse performance as Olivia Benson, now a captain leading with empathy and steel
- The signature “dun-dun” sound that still gives chills
- Ripped-from-the-headlines stories that feel timely and urgent
- Strong ensemble cast including Ice-T (Fin Tutuola), Peter Scanavino (ADA Sonny Carisi), Kelli Giddish (Amanda Rollins’ return), and newer additions like Corey Cott and Aimé Donna Kelly
- Frequent crossovers with the flagship Law & Order series that deliver epic two-hour events
In Season 27, the squad has faced everything from cold cases resurfacing to high-stakes courtroom battles and emotional personal revelations. The midseason return after the holiday break has brought renewed energy, guest stars, and cases that hit hard.
This Week’s Law & Order: SVU Episode Schedule (January 2026)
Law & Order: SVU airs new episodes every Thursday night on NBC. Here’s the schedule for this week and the immediate upcoming episodes:
- Tonight / This Thursday at 9:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM CT Airs on NBC – Brand new episode of Season 27 (Exact episode number and title vary weekly – check local listings or NBC.com for the latest logline)
- Next Thursday (following week) 9:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM CT on NBC Another fresh installment – often following a Law & Order lead-in for maximum drama
- Streaming the next day All new episodes drop on Peacock the morning after they air on NBC, perfect for binge-watching or catching up if you miss the live broadcast.
Quick viewing tip: If you miss the live airing, Peacock has the latest 5 episodes available for free (with ads) on NBC.com and the app, while full seasons are on Peacock Premium.
The show consistently follows this Thursday 9/8c slot, making it easy to plan your week around Benson and the team. No major preemptions are expected this month, so mark your calendars!
What to Expect From Recent & Upcoming Episodes
Season 27 has already delivered standout moments:
- Emotional returns (Amanda Rollins is back in action!)
- Powerful guest appearances from stars like Jemima Kirke and Danielle Macdonald
- Crossover events with the flagship Law & Order that unite the squads for massive cases
- Cases exploring foster care failures, decades-old mysteries, and disturbing personal secrets
Recent highlights include:
- A haunting cold case triggered by an old cassette tape discovery
- High-tension courtroom drama where Carisi and Price team up
- Benson helping a rescued teenager reunite with family while exposing systemic issues
Upcoming storylines promise even more intensity, with hints of repeat offenders resurfacing and new challenges testing the squad’s limits. If you love procedurals with heart, moral complexity, and satisfying justice, SVU delivers every time.
How to Watch Law & Order: SVU in 2026 – All Options
Live TV
- NBC – Thursdays at 9:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM CT
- Cable/satellite providers (check local channel)
Streaming Options
- Peacock – New episodes next-day + full library of past seasons (Premium required for most content)
- NBC.com / NBC App – Free recent episodes (with ads)
- Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, DirecTV Stream – All carry NBC live
International viewers Check local broadcasters (e.g., Sky Witness in the UK) or streaming platforms that carry NBC content.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip This Week’s Episode
Every episode of Law & Order: SVU feels important. Whether it’s a standalone case or part of a larger arc, the writing keeps you guessing until the final “dun-dun.” With the season in full swing post-holiday return, now is the perfect time to jump in or catch up.
Missing even one week can mean overlooking major character developments, shocking twists, or guest stars you won’t want to miss. Set that reminder for Thursday at 9 PM – your appointment with justice is waiting.
Final Thoughts – Keep the Streak Alive!
Law & Order: SVU isn’t just a TV show — it’s a cultural institution that continues to evolve while staying true to its core mission: shining a light on victims and holding perpetrators accountable. Season 27 proves the series still has plenty of stories left to tell.
So tune in this Thursday for this week’s episode of Law & Order: SVU. Whether you’re a day-one fan or a newcomer, Benson and her squad always deliver. See you on the couch — and remember: justice never sleeps.
