Law & Order: SVU Season 27 Fall Finale Review: Lackluster Case Sets Up Benson’s Potential Departure

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The latest midseason finale of Law & Order: SVU didn’t have a particularly strong case, but it’s setting the stage for some compelling character development – arguably the most interesting in a long time. Dick Wolf’s shows do well on both CBS and NBC, but Law & Order: SVU, starring Mariska Hargitay, is still considered the highlight of his television work. Given that it’s the longest-running scripted series on TV, its continued success is certainly noteworthy.

Like most network TV shows, Law & Order: SVU has faced budget cuts. However, season 27 largely maintains the show’s familiar format, with the main difference being a changing cast. In fact, the team led by Benson is now stronger than it has been in a while, having finally overcome a period of being understaffed. As a result, NBC seems to be introducing new obstacles for Benson and her team, and these challenges could prove to be quite significant.

Law & Order: SVU Season 27 Fall Finale Case Is A Dud, But It Resulted In Great Moments

Credit: NBC

The latest episode of Law & Order: SVU, “Showdown,” isn’t a simple whodunit. It centers around the abduction and assault of a motivational speaker’s girlfriend, but the investigation gets complicated when it’s suggested she might have faked the attack as revenge for his infidelity—reminiscent of the movie Gone Girl. In the end, the jury couldn’t reach a decision, and the judge declared a mistrial. However, the case feels surprisingly weak for a season finale, especially considering Law & Order: SVU has delivered much more compelling storylines, even in its regular episodes.

While the latest case on Law & Order: SVU season 27 wasn’t the strongest plot-wise, the episode excelled in developing its characters. The investigation allowed for some truly great individual scenes. A standout pairing was Curry and Rollins – their dynamic showcases both their individual skills and how well they work together. It’s a refreshing change to see two experienced officers partner up without one of them guiding a rookie.

The pairing of Bruno and Griffin is a surprising one, given they’re the newest and youngest members of Benson’s team. They can sometimes be a bit overzealous, particularly during interrogations, but if handled well, their partnership in season 27 of Law & Order: SVU could show significant character development. Meanwhile, Fin remains on leave to cope with the aftermath of the attack that occurred after Captain Cragen’s memorial service.

The most compelling part of the “Showdown” episode was the unexpected focus on Griffin. Watching Carisi question him about potentially damaging paperwork, and then call him as a witness, made Griffin more likable to both his colleagues and the audience. Because of his connection to Chief Tynan, people haven’t fully trusted him, so seeing him genuinely worried about making a mistake showed he’s dedicated to being a team player with Benson. It makes you wonder what’s next for his character.

Benson Finds Her Worst Enemy Yet In Law & Order: SVU Season 27

Photo: NBC via Evertt Collections

The main impact of the fall finale case on Law & Order: SVU is how it sets up the growing tension between Benson and Tynan. The season premiere established that the new NYPD chief would be a challenge for Benson, but this time, disagreements won’t lead to Benson losing her job. Instead, Tynan wants Benson to be more public-facing, hoping it will improve his own standing. While it’s technically a promotion, Benson is so committed to her work at Special Victims that she’d prefer to stay in her current role.

Tynan isn’t accepting Benson’s refusal to cooperate, and their already strained relationship completely falls apart when Benson prioritizes staying with the victim over attending a press conference with the NYPD chief. While Benson is used to navigating office conflicts – she’s clashed with most of the SVU’s chiefs over the years, as often happens in police dramas – Tynan presents a unique challenge because she actually has a point.

Now a captain, Benson’s primary job is to manage her team. However, she still often works cases alongside them, going on calls instead of delegating to her subordinates. While this demonstrates her dedication to victims, it takes time away from her leadership duties. It’s a compelling challenge for Benson, a seasoned detective, to now fully transition into a leadership role in season 27 of Law & Order: SVU.

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2025-11-21 18:00