Impact of Law & Order Season 26’s Hostage Situation on Carisi Discussed by Star

Peter Scanavino, recognized for his role as Dominick Carisi on Law & Order: SVU, recently shared insights on the repercussions following Carisi’s intense hostage situation in the midseason finale titled “Cornered.” Initially, Carisi had set out to buy flowers for his paralegal’s birthday but inadvertently became embroiled in a dangerous robbery that left him as a hostage. While he ultimately manages to turn the situation around, the ordeal leaves a significant impact on him.

In a recent interview with TV Insider, Scanavino discussed what viewers can expect in the upcoming season 26 premiere of Law & Order: SVU, which is scheduled to air on January 16 at 9 PM ET. He emphasized that Carisi is currently experiencing feelings of disorientation and a disconnect from what normally gives his life meaning:

He’s back at work. He’s kind of going through the motions, but he doesn’t have a lot of life to him. And I think a lot of the places that he found sustenance and meaning in his life are not there anymore. So he’s kind of lost while he’s going through the motions. He’s kind of adrift.

Further probing into Carisi’s psyche, Scanavino noted that the character struggles with self-doubt and insecurity:

He’s not feeling the most confident at the moment, and that’s his big issue, I think. He knows he’s weakened, and he knows he’s going through something, and he doesn’t know how to deal with it, and he’s just trying to put one foot in front of the other, but sometimes he’s not on solid footing.

Scanavino highlighted how the hostage experience will resonate within Carisi’s relationship with Amanda Rollins, portrayed by Kelli Giddish. He expressed optimism that Rollins, given her understanding nature and experience, will adeptly navigate the complexities of Carisi’s trauma:

Obviously, he is going to be bringing this home. And the person that’s probably most aware of it is Rollins. But I think given her character’s history and what their relationship is, she knows how to deal with it better than anybody and she knows when to give him space and when to engage with him. And I think she’s probably infinitely patient with him.

Potential Implications of Carisi’s Narrative on Law & Order: SVU

Carisi’s Struggles Persist

Law & Order SVU Carisi in the office with blinds behind him

During the interview, Scanavino clarified that Law & Order: SVU season 26 has not revisited the aftermath of the deli hostage crisis or addressed the fate of the criminals involved. Carisi carries a particular sense of responsibility towards Deonte, even though he acknowledges him as a more sympathetic figure. Should the series choose to explore this storyline further, it could unveil significant emotional depth.

Regardless of whether the narrative revisits the “Cornered” episode characters, it’s evident that the emotional scars will linger for Carisi. The finale concluded with Rollins and Benson, portrayed by Mariska Hargitay, observing Carisi from a distance, hinting that despite his reassurances, he is far from okay.

Insights on Carisi’s Journey

Stepping Into the Role of Hero

In a pivotal moment, Benson considered stepping in to take Carisi’s place during a critical juncture. Ultimately, however, Carisi emerged as the hero, which marked a notable shift for his character. Yet, being the hero comes with its challenges, as the usually steadfast attorney must grapple with the emotional repercussions of his actions.

For ongoing updates about Law & Order: SVU, be sure to check out the full interview with Scanavino on TV Insider.

Source & Images