Mariska Hargitay and 'Law & Order: SVU' Team Discuss New Female Showrunner
Originally published Jun 12, 2026
By Emily Longeretta · Variety
AI-generated summary based on Variety · Aggregated by Filmarian · Human-reviewed and approved on Jun 12, 2026
Key points
- Michele Fazekas is the first female showrunner of 'Law & Order: SVU' in 26 years.
- Fazekas has a 25-year history with the show, having previously worked in the writers' room for seasons 3 through 7.
- Mariska Hargitay and the team highlight how Fazekas' return has influenced the show's direction and tone.
- Fazekas' deep understanding of the series has helped maintain its legacy while introducing fresh ideas.
- The team reflects on the positive impact of having a female showrunner after such a long period.
Michele Fazekas, the first female showrunner of 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit' in 26 years, has brought a new perspective to the long-running series. With a 25-year history with the show, Fazekas previously worked in the writers' room for seasons 3 through 7 and maintained close relationships with the show's leading women, including Mariska Hargitay. Her return as showrunner for the 27th season marks a significant shift in the show's leadership and creative direction. The team, including Hargitay, reflects on how Fazekas' return has influenced the show's tone and storytelling. Her deep understanding of the series and its core themes has helped maintain its legacy while introducing fresh ideas.
Read the original story: Variety — by Emily Longeretta