Christopher Meloni’s departure from Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU) after 12 seasons marked a significant moment in the long-running franchise. Meloni, who portrayed Detective Elliot Stabler, left the show due to contract disputes over salary and workload.
Background on Law & Order
The Law & Order franchise, created by Dick Wolf, has produced nearly 1,400 episodes since its debut in 1990. The series is known for its structured format, dividing each episode into two parts: the investigation and the legal proceedings. This predictable format has made it a staple of American television.
Meloni’s Exit from SVU
Meloni’s exit in 2011 came after extensive negotiations with NBC regarding his salary. He sought to reduce his workload while maintaining a high paycheck, but the network’s refusal led to his departure. At the time, he was one of the highest-paid actors on television, earning approximately $400,000 per episode alongside co-star Mariska Hargitay.
Return to the Franchise
After a brief absence, Meloni made a guest appearance in 2020 during SVU’s 22nd season. His significant return occurred with the launch of Law & Order: Organized Crime, where he reprised his role as Stabler. This new series focuses on Stabler’s quest for revenge against the mob for his wife’s murder.
Career Expansion
Post-SVU, Meloni explored diverse roles in various projects, including the surreal comedy Happy!, the series True Blood, and the sitcom Surviving Jack. He also took on notable film roles, such as in Man of Steel and The Diary of a Teenage Girl.
Meloni’s return to the Law & Order franchise reflects his desire to balance a successful acting career with personal fulfillment. Source