Two Fan Favorites Set to Exit Law & Order: SVU — Who’s Leaving and Why?
- Je-Ree
- May 6
- 2 min read
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has been around forever, the show is old as hell and has seen its doors welcome and kick out many characters whether they are detectives or attorneys. The shake-ups on this show never seem to end but fans cannot get enough of the memorable characters and gripping storylines.
On the chopping block this time are fairly new cast members Juliana Aidén Martinez and Octavio Pisano who will be leaving Law & Order: SVU after Season 26 and fans are left wondering what the future holds. Their exits mark a significant shift in the dynamic of the beloved series and here’s everything you need to know.
Why Juliana Martinez and Octavio Pisano Are Leaving Law & Order: SVU
Juliana Martinez, who joined SVU in Season 26 as Detective Kate Silva, quickly became a fan favorite. With a strong backstory and chemistry with the squad — especially Detective Joe Velasco — her addition brought new blood to the team. Octavio Pisano, on the other hand, has portrayed Velasco since Season 23 and became a key player in the series.
Both departures come as Season 26 wraps up, with neither actor expected to return for the yet-to-be-confirmed Season 27. While NBC has not released official reasons, we tried to find out, believe us, one can only guess as to the reason. We hear that NBC is doing budget cuts, so that very well may be the reason (looking at you Chicago Fire).
What This Means for the Future of SVU
Should budget cuts and not “creative choices” (now I’m looking at you 9-1-1), there could be a strong chance that new characters may not be introduced to the well established crime fighting team. Also, not sure if new characters are warranted as Pisano’s Velasco, a character with a troubled past and complex motivations, offered nuanced performances that resonated with viewers. Martinez’s Silva brought a fresh perspective, tackling modern challenges in law enforcement.
Why get rid of such interesting characters, to bring in new ones and now we have to get used to a new dynamic all over again. On the other hand, there is an argument for fresh faces mean fresh stories for a series that has been on for as long as I can remember.
Fan Reactions and What to Watch Next
Social media lit up with mixed reactions when the news broke. Long-time fans expressed sadness over losing two strong characters, while others remain optimistic about where SVU might head next.
NBC has not officially renewed SVU for Season 27, but we are pretty confident here at The TV Cave that a renewal is a lock. NBC did recently renew the Chicago shows so an announcement can’t be too far behind.
Are you sad to see Martinez and Pisano go? Share your thoughts or favorite moments with them in the comments below!
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