‘Law & Order: SVU’ season 17 spoilers: Could Benson have a new love interest?

There are many things that we can praise “Law & Order: SVU” for, whether it be the performances to the serious issues that the show brings to life. However, another great one that does perhaps not get noticed as much is the show’s resistance of common television conventions. For example, it would be incredibly easy for this series to give Olivia Benson a new love interest every season, that way they can turn it into one of these “professional woman struggling to balance serious work life and crazy personal life” sort of shows.

Luckily, they have relented. While Mariska Hargitay’s character has had romantic storylines, it’s never been the focus to force her into a relationship. Based on what we are hearing right now, this could continue moving into season 17. For evidence, just examine what executive producer Warren Leight had to say, courtesy of Entertainment Weekly:

“There will be a lot of change next year for all of our characters … I don’t know that she needs a man. Usually those things happen when you’re not looking for them. The promotion to lieutenant will happen sooner rather than later for her. With that comes a moment for her to acknowledge how much she has accomplished. Possibly, at that time, when you’re feeling better about yourself, other things come your way.”  

If there is a point where Benson decides that she wants a different sort of love in her life, isn’t it so much better to see it happen organically than trying to force it? The folks behind the scenes seem to think so, and we appreciate that very much.

This series also probably has a better idea than most of what is coming up next year already. After all, “SVU” does something rare and shoots at least one episode for the upcoming season before embarking on hiatus, and sometimes even more than that.

(Photo: NBC.)