Fin Demonstrates His Unwavering Support for Captain Olivia Benson as a New Member Joins the SVU Team

In an exclusive sneak peek provided by Us Weekly for the upcoming episode of “Law & Order: SVU,” we see Odafin “Fin” Tutuola (played by Ice-T) showcasing his unwavering support for his captain and close friend, Olivia Benson (portrayed by Mariska Hargitay). The new episode introduces viewers to Aimé Donna Kelly’s character, IAB Captain Renee Curry, as she makes her debut with the SVU team on Thursday, February 22. She arrives bearing donuts, signaling a potential olive branch to her new colleagues.

“Curry’s from IAB,” Fin informs his fellow SVU team member, Joe Velasco (played by Octavio Pisano), hinting at the often tense relationship between the Internal Affairs Bureau (IAB) and SVU detectives. Curry quickly clarifies her position, expressing her hope that Benson had already informed the squad of her transition, “Used to be. I hope Benson told you that I was joining the squad.”

This sparks curiosity in Fin, who questions whether “some string-pulling” facilitated Curry’s move to the SVU unit. Demonstrating a desire to integrate and form connections within her new team, Curry openly expresses her wish to build a friendship with Fin.

“I don’t make friends with internal affairs. But I am going to eat one of your donuts under protest,” Fin hits back, which Curry says she respects. Fin then quips, “Well, respect this: I’ve got Benson’s back first, last and always.”

Curry’s formal integration into the SVU team follows a pivotal discussion with Benson in the episode that aired on February 15.

After a case resulted in Chief Tommy McGrath (portrayed by Terry Serpico) being placed on “modified duty,” Benson and Curry took the opportunity to discuss the situation over drinks. It was during this meeting that Benson gauged Curry’s readiness to step in as McGrath’s replacement, while also presenting her with an opportunity to transition out of IAB.

“I am short-staffed,” Benson told Curry, before welcoming her to the team. “And with SVU not having a Chief looking over our shoulder but an acting chief … we could get a lot done. Maybe even break some rules for a change.”

Law & Order: SVU” is in the midst of its milestone 25th season, a season that promises to showcase Benson in a fresh perspective. Mariska Hargitay, in an exclusive conversation with Us Weekly, shared a sneak peek into the evolution fans can anticipate from her character in the episodes ahead.