Law & Order: SVU season 19: A longer look at Barba’s future
For starters, there’s the promo that makes it clear that the character (played by Raúl Esparza) could be in some trouble. Add to that the SVU rumor mill going crazy with theories about what’s happening and we’re almost at a Code Red situation for the show. Barba’s a beloved character — we’ve loved Esparza for years (he’s also incredible on Hannibal and The Path) and of course we want to see him stick around on the show for as long as he possibly can. Our love for him unfortunately doesn’t take away the chance that this could be the last episode for the character.
There are many different components surrounding the story of Barba’s future that also make things interesting. Take, for example, the discussion around Philip Winchester coming on board. Back when he was first announced to be a part of the show in August, all indications were that he would serve as some sort of foil for Barba and not necessarily a replacement. Yet, that was also seven months ago and Winchester didn’t come to set until many months later. Is it possible that something changed within that time? Sure. It was certainly unusual that SVU announced a major recurring guest star so far in advance of them filming. It is clear that Stone is sticking around for a while, given all of the promotion that the series is generating around Winchester being a part of the show.
Another possibility is this: Barba may be gone for a hiatus, only to return a little bit later on. Esparza’s an actor who likes to do many different things, so we wouldn’t consider this to be all that much of a surprise if this is the outcome of the episode.
Finally, let’s turn to this as a possibility: That we’re all being hyped up into a panic over nothing. SVU obviously has a plan, and we think after nineteen seasons that we’ve learned to trust them. Winchester’s a great actor and he’ll be fantastic however long he is around. He also has familiarity with showrunner Michael Chernuchin already thanks to Chicago Justice.
What do you think Barba’s future will be on Law & Order: SVU after tonight? Be sure to share in the comments.
(Photo: NBC.)