What was the hilarious story behind Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni's 'Law & Order: SVU' audition?

Mariska Hargitay revealed that she initially thought she would be paired with actor John Slattery during the audition, but ended up reading with Meloni instead. The two bonded over a joke about Meloni's Jesus tattoo, which cemented their partnership as Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler.

How long has 'Law & Order: SVU' been on the air?

'Law & Order: SVU' is currently in its 27th season on the 2025 TV schedule, having premiered in 1999.

What is the relationship between Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni's characters on 'Law & Order: SVU'?

Hargitay and Meloni's characters, Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler, have a "will they/won't they" dynamic that has captivated fans over the show's 27 seasons.

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Mariska Hargitay's Hilarious 'Law & Order: SVU' Audition Story Revealed

24 Oct

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Summary

Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni had instant chemistry during their 'SVU' audition
Hargitay initially thought she'd be paired with John Slattery, not Meloni
Meloni's Jesus tattoo joke cemented their bond and made Hargitay know he was the right Stabler

Mariska Hargitay's Hilarious 'Law & Order: SVU' Audition Story Revealed

As 'Law & Order: SVU' enters its 27th season on the 2025 TV schedule, the show's longevity is a testament to the chemistry between its lead actors, Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni. In a recent interview, Hargitay revealed the hilarious story behind their initial audition, which cemented their partnership as Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler.

Hargitay explained that she and Meloni immediately bonded over their similar personalities and sense of humor during the callback. However, she initially thought she'd be paired with actor John Slattery, not Meloni. When Hargitay learned Slattery was also at the audition, she was determined to impress him and build a connection. But fate had other plans, and she ended up reading with Meloni instead.