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[Warning: The following contains significant spoilers for the Law & Order and SVU crossover event, “Play With Fire.”]
In a compelling crossover event, the worlds of Law & Order and SVU unite to pursue a notorious serial rapist and murderer.
The stakes are intensely personal for both Detective Benson (Mariska Hargitay) and Assistant District Attorney Brady (Maura Tierney). One of the victims is Maria, a young girl Benson saved, who has since become a police officer. Meanwhile, Brady is haunted by an unsolved case linked to the perpetrator, who turns out to be none other than Maria’s lieutenant (Reinaldo Faberlle). In a chilling twist, the lieutenant targets Benson’s son at school, prompting a fierce protective instinct from Benson. Detective Stabler (Christopher Meloni) intervenes, ensuring the lieutenant knows to stay away from Noah. Ultimately, Price (Hugh Dancy) and Carisi (Peter Scanavino) successfully collaborate in court to achieve a guilty verdict.
In an exclusive discussion, Dancy provides insights on the crossover and hints at what’s in store for the upcoming season finale of Law & Order.
When Cassie hesitates to testify, Baxter (Tony Goldwyn) suggests they will subpoena her if necessary. How does Price perceive this situation?
Hugh Dancy: Price approaches the idea without any inner conflict. For Benson, the events are deeply personal, especially after witnessing a mentor’s tragic fate. His concern is focused on preventing any further collateral damage to Cassie, as she risks losing her hard-earned stability. Legally, however, this is a necessary step to ensure a dangerous criminal is taken off the streets. Price is pragmatic in this regard.
At this stage in his career, he fully grasps these complexities.
Yes, while we progress through the story quickly, previous episodes allowed us to explore these themes more thoroughly. Those moments, where moral ambiguity prevails, are what truly engage me. The characters must constantly assess what is required, navigating between fervor and empathy.
And the interactions between Price, Sam (Odelya Halevi), and Baxter showcase these conflicts perfectly.
I agree; I appreciate when the narrative delves into the legal intricacies, yet it’s vital to contrast that with the human consequences involved.
When Price suggests Benson recuse herself following the incident with her son, does he genuinely believe she would consider it?
[Laughs] Are you referring to Price as a character or me as an actor? Either way, it seems highly unlikely.
I’m considering both perspectives. That scene is quite impactful.
I’m glad you think so! The audience can predict how the situation unfolds. It would be unexpected if Benson simply stepped aside in the second half of the episode. While Price’s suggestion carries weight, it’s rooted more in the implications for their case rather than concern for Benson personally. The defendant knows how to push her buttons, which could complicate their courtroom strategy down the line.
What I appreciate is how Price can stand toe-to-toe with Benson, as few can.
Exactly! Our interactions might stem from the fact that we don’t collaborate as frequently. In that final exchange, we share a common emotional goal, but I won’t hesitate to express my professional perspective, regardless of her feelings.
Which scene from the crossover did you enjoy filming the most?
I would say that scene stands out for me because it beautifully intertwines our professional dynamics with personal conflicts.
Looking ahead, what can we expect for Price after this crossover?
A well-deserved break! [Laughs] We’ve wrapped up filming two or three more episodes since then, including the season finale, which I believe will keep viewers on edge. I recently spoke with director Martha Mitchell about the penultimate episode, and her excitement is infectious. I think we’ll conclude on a high note.
Can you provide a sneak peek into the finale?
It deeply involves one character’s connection in a way that is surprising, ultimately challenging my understanding of who that person is.
Regarding Price’s journey, how does the season culminate for him?
Price finds himself in a place of uncertainty about the true nature of his colleagues. He must balance his commitment to the law against the more nuanced pursuit of justice, especially when someone he cares for is involved.
Previously, we explored Price’s family dynamics. Will there be more of that this season, or is that reserved for next season?
This season, there’s no immediate family storyline. However, I hope we’ll have opportunities to revisit that in the future.
What are your aspirations for Price in a potential Season 25?
I feel we are still refining the show’s direction in 2025. While Law & Order will retain its legacy, I believe there’s room to explore character depth more profoundly, diverging from merely presenting cases. This approach enhances the overall narrative, and I would be intrigued to see if we could develop story arcs that extend beyond a single episode. I certainly don’t want to disrupt our established structure, but I feel we’ve earned the chance to experiment a little.
Will we see you in future episodes of SVU or Organized Crime after this crossover?
Not this season. The logistics of such crossovers can be quite complex. However, if another season comes along, I’d love to see more collaboration.
I share your enthusiasm for seeing Price and Stabler interact significantly.
Exactly; while we had a brief moment in the past, it’s been a while. I’m eager for more, too.
Law & Order airs Thursdays at 8/7c on NBC.
Law & Order: SVU follows at 9/8c on NBC.
Source
www.tvinsider.com