NBC has officially renewed Law & Order and Law & Order: SVU for the 2025-2026 broadcast season, ensuring that the iconic Dick Wolf shows will continue to captivate audiences for yet another year. Law & Order will return for its milestone 25th season, while SVU is set for its impressive 27th season. These renewals solidify the lasting power of the Law & Order franchise, making it one of television’s most enduring successes.
These announcements bring a sense of continuity to Wolf Entertainment’s NBC lineup, following the renewals of the One Chicago shows. However, the future of some other NBC programs remains up in the air, with decisions still pending for a number of freshman dramas and comedies, including Suits LA, Brilliant Minds, and Night Court.
For Law & Order, which made a stunning return in 2022 after a 12-year hiatus, the renewal comes after a season that has seen significant success, particularly on streaming. The series, led by Hugh Dancy, Tony Goldwyn, and Maura Tierney, has garnered a +112% increase in viewership on Peacock, making it one of the top-performing shows on the platform. With a star-studded cast and high-profile storylines, Law & Order continues to draw strong viewership both on linear TV and digital platforms.
Meanwhile, SVU, with its record-breaking 27th season, remains a staple of NBC’s primetime lineup. Mariska Hargitay’s portrayal of Detective Olivia Benson continues to resonate with audiences, and the series has maintained its position as a streaming powerhouse on Peacock, where it has seen a 5% growth in viewership compared to the previous season.
Despite its success, SVU was not exempt from cost-cutting measures. Recent cast changes, including the exit of Juliana Martinez and Octavio Pisano, reflect the ongoing efforts to streamline the show’s budget while maintaining its high-quality storytelling. With a production budget of $5-6 million per episode, SVU remains one of the most cost-effective shows in its genre, balancing its high-profile talent with efficient production practices.
As for Law & Order, sources reveal that the show is facing deeper cuts to its budget. With a cast of well-known names like Tony Goldwyn and Mehcad Brooks, there are discussions about trimming the number of episodes and possibly reducing salaries for returning cast members. However, despite these challenges, Law & Order continues to deliver strong ratings and remains a key player in NBC’s lineup.
Both SVU and Law & Order are produced by Universal Television in association with Wolf Entertainment, with Dick Wolf serving as executive producer for both series.
The renewal of these two flagship shows marks a pivotal moment for NBC and Wolf Entertainment, securing the continued legacy of the Law & Order franchise while navigating the complexities of the current television landscape. As NBC prepares for its upfront presentation to advertisers in May, fans can look forward to more compelling episodes and dramatic moments on both Law & Order and SVU.