When does Law & Order: Special Victims Unit return?

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is an American police procedural crime drama television series. It is the first spin-off of the main Law and Order series. The series stars Mariska Hargitay as Detective Olivia Benson and Christopher Meloni as Detective Elliot Stabler. The 23rd season premiered on September 23, 2021, during which the show aired its milestone 500th episode. In May 2025, the series was renewed for a 27th season.
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit delves into the dark side of the New York underworld. The series often uses stories that are "ripped from the headlines" or based on real crimes. Its stories touch on the political and societal issues associated with gender identity, sexual preferences, and equality rights.