Kelli Giddish returns full-time as Detective Amanda Rollins in Law & Order: SVU Season 27. Get the latest news on her comeback, exciting storyline changes, and what this means for fans of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
In season 27 of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, longtime cast member Ice‑T reveals his reduced role is due to budget shifts tied to Kelli Giddish’s return. Read the full story on cast changes, show dynamics and what’s ahead.
Headliner Spotlight
- Ice-T’s reduced screen time in SVU season 27 stems from budget decisions, tied to Giddish’s return.
- Kelli Giddish is back full-time as Amanda Rollins, adding renewed chemistry.
- Fin remains part of the squad, and Ice-T has hopes for season 28 and beyond.
- The show is evolving – mixing veteran presence with new energy.
- Fans remain engaged and vocal about characters they care about.
Kelli Giddish Returns to Law & Order: SVU
Fans of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit have reason to celebrate. Kelli Giddish is back as Amanda Rollins in Season 27. Her return as a series regular marks a significant milestone for the long-running NBC drama, which has undergone numerous cast changes in recent years.
Giddish’s SVU Legacy
Kelli Giddish made her initial debut on Law & Order: SVU in Season 13. Her character, Amanda Rollins, quickly became a favorite for her sharp instincts and complex backstory. From 2011 to 2022, Giddish appeared in hundreds of episodes, forming a close bond with Mariska Hargitay’s Olivia Benson on screen.
Rollins left SVU in 2022 for a teaching career. However, she continued to make guest appearances, helping the squad with tough cases. In Season 25, Giddish’s Rollins shifted from professor to NYPD Intelligence Unit leader.
Why Giddish returned
Kelli Giddish originally left the show after an 11-season run as Sgt. Amanda Rollins. She later made guest appearances and now returns full-time in season 27. Ice-T credited the fans and lead actress Mariska Hargitay with influencing her comeback.
Giddish said her return felt “right,” and noted the show has a new showrunner this year, giving the season a refreshed tone despite its long run.
Season 27 News
In 2025, Kelli Giddish reclaimed her series regular status. She made her official return during the October 16 episode titled “Clickbait.” Fans saw Rollins walk back into the 16th precinct, where she met with her friend, Captain Benson. The reunion delivered emotional moments and set up exciting possibilities for the season.
- Showrunner Michele Fazekas is guiding Season 27.
- Viewers can expect new challenges for Olivia Benson as well.
- The show now airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.
Recent SVU Cast News
Kelli Giddish’s return comes as Law & Order: SVU navigates a cast shake-up. Some cast members, including Octavio Pisano and Juliana Martinez, are exiting the series after the previous season. This shake-up paves the way for Rollins to step forward again, bringing renewed energy to the SVU team.
What’s Next for Law & Order: SVU?
With Rollins back and new leadership from Michele Fazekas, Season 27 feels fresh and full of promise. Expect new obstacles for Captain Benson and more dynamic stories featuring Rollins as an NYPD Intelligence leader. The producers have teased deeper investigations and a strong focus on the personal growth of core characters.