Christopher Meloni’s ‘Organized Crime’ Axed, and He Hints at Chances of 'SVU' Return

After premiering on NBC five years ago on April 1, 2001, the powers that be at the network have officially decided to cancel Law & Order: Organized Crime. The Dick Wolf procedural series marked the triumphant long-term return of one of the celebrated and recognizable TV detectives in history, Christopher Meloni’s Elliot Stabler. Prior to his comeback, Meloni was a fixture on primetime for 12 amazing seasons of Law & Order: SVU as the dedicated, yet at times overzealous, detective and partner of the best detective to ever grace a screen, Olivia Benson, portrayed by the legendary Mariska Hargitay.

With all that being said, is it possible now that Organized Crime is cancelled, Meloni will make his way back to SVU permanently? After all, SVU was just renewed for an impressive 28th season, and longtime fans have been begging for a more permanent and prominent connection to develop between the Olivia and Elliot characters in their drawn-out “will they or won’t they” dynamic. Well, Meloni took to Instagram and gave a clue on the possibility of his SVU return.

Is Christopher Meloni Returning to ‘SVU’?

Following the announcement that NBC decided not to renew Organized Crime, Meloni took to Instagram to post a video, thanking fans for embracing the character of Elliot Stabler and giving him “life and longevity.” He then said ominous things like, “It was a good ride,” and “Had a great time playing him.” Meloni also thanked fans for “giving him a career” that he could never dream of. Additionally, in the caption for the social media post, he wrote, “Thank you OC/SVU fans. You gave me a life.” 

The words he spoke and the caption he wrote don’t exactly make it sound as if he’s returning to SVU as a series regular for next season. While to be clear, no official announcement has been made about a possible regular or recurring role for Meloni on SVU in the near future, his video was rather telling. You can see for yourself below.