Amanda Rollins is making a grand comeback, and in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Kelli Giddish reveals all about her character’s much-anticipated return on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
“I couldn’t be happier to be back,” Giddish shared ahead of her return in the new episode that premiered on Thursday, October 16.
“We have fantastic showrunners, and now we’re under the guidance of Michele Fazekas. It feels like a perfect time for both the audience and for Rollins and Benson’s relationship to evolve,” Giddish explained.
She hinted that there’s a lot more to uncover with Rollins, and the timing couldn’t be better.
Giddish commended Fazekas for her deep appreciation of Rollins, allowing for her character’s growth and development to be showcased.
“She understands how vital the relationship between Benson and Rollins is for us and the audience,” the actress reflected. “I think she’s really harnessing that energy.”
The fourth episode of the landmark 27th season, titled “Clickbait,” culminates with a familiar scene for SVU fans: a heartfelt exchange between Giddish’s Rollins and Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson in the squad room, evoking plenty of emotion both on and off the camera.
Kelli Giddish and Mariska Hargitay Virginia Sherwood / NBC
“There are many spontaneous hugs. We’re all relieved to be back together,” Giddish reflected. “The warm sentiments from the crew fill the atmosphere, and it truly feels heartening to hear, ‘Oh, you’re back.’”
Giddish is immensely appreciative of the fans who share in her joy about returning.
“Everyone is genuinely happy to be a part of it. We’re invested in telling these impactful stories, and it’s a delightful experience,” she noted. “While the themes we explore are heavy, our tight-knit cast and crew makes it enjoyable to show up every day.”
With the unprecedented appointment of the first female showrunner, Giddish likened her experiences with Hargitay and Aimé Donna Kelly (Captain Renee Curry) to being the modern-day “Charlie’s Angels” on set.
“Having three strong women leads the crew is empowering, and we embrace the comparison,” Giddish noted, hinting at a promising collaboration between Rollins and Curry soon.
“There’s a strong mutual respect, and she adds great depth to her character,” Giddish remarked. (Kelly also shared her thoughts on Giddish’s return by stating that it felt like “another family member returning home” in a previous Us interview.)
As for the dynamic between Rollins and Carisi, fans can look forward to more shared moments as Giddish and Peter Scanavino continue to shine on screen.
“Working with Peter is effortless,” Giddish praised. “Our chemistry translates well on screen, and our friendship off-camera undoubtedly enhances our performances.”
Law & Order: SVU airs new episodes on NBC every Thursday at 9 p.m. ET.
