‘Law & Order: SVU’ season 15 spoilers: Mariska Hargitay on directing, Alec Baldwin

Mariska Hargitay is a heck of a busy woman. Not only does she star as Olivia Benson on “Law & Order: SVU,” but she is getting set to direct the big episode of the show airing on Wednesday night. This is a story that features a controversial case, a powerful journalist, and so much more.

So what does Hargitay herself after to say about sitting down in the big chair for this hour? That is what the sneak peek below from NBC helps to explain. She shares her thoughts all about the episode’s story, working with an old friend in Alec Baldwin (making his first appearance since his run on “30 Rock” ended), and also how she decided to take on this job in the first place. This is something that she has wanted to do for the past several years, but never made the move to actually go for it until recently.

What did she do to prepare for the gig? Think along the lines of what so any other actors-turned-directors do? She spent a good deal of time shadowing various directors who have been there for years, including one whose history dates all the way back to the pilot. From there, she eventually went to series mastermind Dick Wolf and got his blessing to get involved in this capacity.

Could we see her directing another episode someday? It’s possible, but it depends solely on whether or not the show is picked up by NBC for another season. For the time being, we at least consider it likely.

What do you want to see on this episode, and are you excited that Hargitay is directing? Share your thoughts below.

Photo: NBC