Law & Order: SVU season 19 episode 2 preview: A Mariska Hargitay story

It feels odd in some ways to title this Law & Order: SVU season 19 episode 2 piece “A Mariska Hargitay story.” After all, aren’t most episodes of the NBC show Mariska Hargitay stories in some way? Certainly, the answer does appear to be yes, but there are some further considerations that need to be considered here. For one, early indications suggest that this could be one of the most powerful, challenging Olivia Benson seasons that we’ve seen in some time. While we of course want to see the character happy and free of hardship, that doesn’t seem to be in the cards for her. For one, the show producers do want there to be as much drama as possible, given that this is a world where drama is going to be common. For Benson especially, she has to be very prepared for the fact that she’s going to be a common target. She puts terrible people away for living, and some of those people are going to want revenge. Even those who are behind bars could still have friends and family who could retaliate.

While we cannot say specifically (at least not yet) who is after Benson on the upcoming October 4 episode “Mood,” it does appear as though someone is combing through her life for more information.

Law & Order: SVU season 19 episode 2 synopsis – “The bizarre details of a woman’s rape put the SVU at odds when Rollins (Kelli Giddish) and Carisi (Peter Scanavino) think her story is fabricated. Meanwhile, Benson (Mariska Hargitay) goes on the offensive when her personal life is scrutinized. Also starring Ice T (Det. Odafin Tutuola). Guest starring Dean Winters (Brian Cassidy), Robbie Collier-Sublett (Tom Williams), Saxon Sharbino (Savannah Ross), Amirah Vann (Michelle Morrison) and Spencer Hamp (Nick Collins).”

Beyond the Benson story what remains interesting about this case is seeing the entire SVU team at odds, given that this is not something that is an altogether common practice for them. While we would be remiss were we to say that the entire squad was always in lockstep, one of their biggest strengths is their unity. If Rollins / Carisi are looking at this case differently than Benson or Fin, that divide could make it all the more challenging for justice to be found.

Why is this so devastating?

Well, a great deal of that has to deal with the fact that Cassidy is back and is investigating Olivia’s own relationship with Noah. Is she abusing her son? We know the answer to that, but others have a differing point of view and Noah did say what he did to the nurse at school. Benson is now going to have to gear up for the fight of her life to clear her name. The promo doesn’t talk much about the case; instead, it’s all about Benson.

What do you expect to see on Law & Order: SVU season 19 episode 2?

Sound off now in the attached comments along with what troubles you imagine are going to come Benson’s way.

(Photo: NBC.)