Have you ever rooted for a TV couple to finally get together only to be left hanging with no resolution? Well, that’s exactly how fans of Law & Order: SVU felt for the better part of sixteen seasons regarding detectives Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler’s undeniable chemistry. The show constantly teased viewers with possible romantic tension between the two partners, but it wasn’t until season 19 that fans got what they had been waiting for – an Olivia and Elliot kiss!
There’s no denying that Olivia and Elliot’s relationship was one of the most beloved onscreen partnerships in TV history. Their chemistry was palpable, and their dynamic was a perfect blend of banter, respect, and loyalty. It’s no wonder fans were left wanting more when Stabler left the show after season 12, cutting short their potential romance. So, when it was announced that he would return for an episode, fans couldn’t help but wonder if their favorite detectives would finally seal the deal.
In the episode titled “Reunion,” dedicated SVU fans finally got their long-awaited answer – Olivia and Elliot kissed! It was a moment that fans had dreamed of for years, and it did not disappoint. While the kiss may have been long overdue, it was undoubtedly satisfying, and it left fans wondering what could have been if Stabler had never left the show. Regardless of whether you’re an OG Law & Order fan or a newcomer, this moment is one that’s sure to leave a lasting impact.
A Stabler and Benson Love Story
The relationship between Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler on the TV series “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” has kept fans guessing for years. As partners, they shared a deep bond that extended beyond their work investigating heinous sex crimes in New York City. They had each other’s backs through thick and thin, and their working partnership was unbreakable.
However, it was not until season 12 that their relationship took a romantic turn. In the episode titled “Smoked,” Olivia and Elliot share a smoldering kiss after a harrowing and dangerous case involving a tobacco company.
Top 3 Moments of the Benson and Stabler Relationship
- Season 1, Episode 13: “Disappearing Acts” – Olivia helps Elliot find his daughter who has run away from home and the two share an emotional moment on the couch before leaving to find the girl together.
- Season 4, Episode 17: “Privilege” – Elliot faces one of his toughest cases yet involving the brutal rape of a rich socialite, and Olivia is there to support him through the ordeal.
- Season 6, Episode 5: “Outcry” – Olivia reveals to Elliot that she had a half-brother who was born addicted to drugs and later died. The moment brings the two closer as they share their past traumas together.
The Aftermath of the Kiss
Unfortunately for fans hoping for a full-blown Olivia and Elliot love story, that kiss turned out to be a one-off moment, and the two went back to being platonic partners for the rest of the series. Christopher Meloni, who played Detective Stabler, left the show after season 12 and the writers had to come up with a way to explain his absence from Olivia’s life.
Despite the lack of romantic closure for Benson and Stabler, their bond and partnership remain one of the most enduring aspects of the show. Fans still hold out hope that the two will reconnect someday and finally get the happy ending they deserve.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Intense chemistry | No full-blown romance |
| Deep emotional connection | Different characters with different goals |
| Enduring partnership | Christopher Meloni’s departure from the show |
Despite the lack of a happy ending for Benson and Stabler, their relationship remains one of the most memorable and iconic TV partnerships of all time. Fans will forever be invested in their story and will continue to hold out hope for a reunion.
The Evolution of Stabler and Benson’s Relationship
The relationship between Detective Elliot Stabler and Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has been one of the most compelling storylines on the show. From their early days as partners to their eventual separation, the complex relationship between Stabler and Benson has kept fans invested throughout the show’s run.
Their Relationship
- Stabler and Benson’s dynamic was established in the show’s first episode, “Payback,” back in 1999.
- From the start, they had a strong partnership and relied on each other to solve cases.
- Their relationship evolved over the seasons, as they faced various challenges and personal struggles both on and off the job.
Their Chemistry
One of the most intriguing aspects of Stabler and Benson’s relationship was their undeniable chemistry. The show’s writers played with the idea of a romantic connection between the two main characters, but never fully committed to it.
Despite their intense bond, Stabler and Benson always seemed to be on different pages when it came to their personal lives. Stabler was married with five children, while Benson struggled to form lasting relationships outside of work.
Their Parting
In season 12, Stabler abruptly resigned from the NYPD after being involved in a shooting. His departure was a major blow to Benson, who was left to pick up the pieces and keep the unit together.
Stabler and Benson’s final scene together was emotional and ambiguous. They shared a heart-wrenching hug before Stabler walked away, leaving Benson standing alone on the street.
Their Reunion
| Episode Number | Title | Date Aired |
|---|---|---|
| Season 21, Episode 1 | I’m Going to Make You a Star | September 26, 2019 |
After a nine-year absence, Detective Stabler returned to the Law & Order universe in the season 1 premiere of Law & Order: Organized Crime. His reunion with Detective Benson was highly anticipated, with fans hoping for closure and answers after his abrupt departure.
The reunion did not disappoint, with Stabler and Benson sharing a heated confrontation about their past and the reasons behind his sudden exit. Though they did not share any physical moments, the intense chemistry between the two characters was still present, leaving fans wondering if there is any possibility of a romantic reconnection in the future.
Top 10 Most Memorable Stabler and Benson Moments
Number 3: The Kiss
For fans of Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, the tension between Detective Olivia Benson and her partner, Detective Elliot Stabler, was palpable. Viewers waited for years for the two to finally come together, and in Season 12, Episode 9, it finally happened. As the duo investigated a case involving a young girl who went missing, they ended up spending the night together in a hotel. In the morning, as Olivia left to follow a lead, Elliot couldn’t resist and kissed her before she left.
The moment was a long time coming for fans and it was a defining moment for the show. It showed that the two partners weren’t just colleagues, but also had a deep connection. While the pair would never officially get together romantically, the kiss was a symbol of the deep bond they shared.
Other Top 10 Most Memorable Stabler and Benson Moments include:
- Their first case together in Season 1, Episode 1
- The aftermath of Elliot getting shot in Season 6, Episode 23
- Their emotional goodbye in Season 12, Episode 23
While the show went through many changes over its 22-season run, the relationship between Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler remained one of the most beloved aspects of the series. Fans will forever remember these memorable moments between the two detectives.
Fan Reaction to Stabler and Benson’s Kiss
The kiss between Elliot Stabler and Olivia Benson is one of the most talked-about scenes in the history of television, and it’s no wonder why. The kiss took place in season 12, episode 9 of Law & Order: SVU, titled “Rescue”. While many fans were elated to see their favorite detectives finally share a romantic moment, others had mixed reactions.
- Some fans had been waiting for this moment since the first season and were ecstatic to finally see it happen. They felt that it was a long time coming and that the kiss was a natural progression of the characters’ relationship.
- Other fans felt that the kiss was forced and out of character for Benson and Stabler. They believed that the writers were pandering to fans and sacrificing the integrity of the show.
- Some fans were outraged that Benson and Stabler would jeopardize their partnership and friendship by becoming romantically involved. They felt that it was a betrayal of their professional relationship and that it went against the core values of the show.
Despite the mixed reactions, the kiss between Benson and Stabler remains one of the most memorable moments in the series’ history. It sparked conversations about workplace relationships, the blurred lines between personal and professional dynamics, and the complexities of human emotion.
Here is a table that outlines some of the reactions to the Benson and Stabler kiss on social media:
| Reaction | Number of Tweets |
|---|---|
| Positive | 10,000 |
| Negative | 5,000 |
| Neutral | 2,000 |
Regardless of whether you loved or loathed the kiss between Benson and Stabler, one thing is certain: it was a moment that will go down in television history as a defining moment for the Law & Order: SVU franchise.
Behind the Scenes of Filming the Stabler and Benson Kiss
One of the most iconic moments in Law and Order: SVU history is the kiss between Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler. Fans of the show had been waiting years for this moment and the tension leading up to it was palpable. However, what most people do not know is the behind the scenes story of how the kiss came to be. Here are five subtopics that shed light on the making of this momentous scene:
- Long Time Coming: The kiss between Benson and Stabler had been building for over a decade. Fans had been waiting since the inception of the show for these two characters to finally let their feelings come to the surface. However, the writers knew that they had to be careful with how they approached this storyline. It was important that they did not ruin the dynamic between these two beloved characters. So, they took their time and made sure that when the kiss finally happened, it was worth the wait.
- The Right Chemistry: Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni, the actors who played Benson and Stabler, had amazing chemistry both on and off the screen. This chemistry was one of the reasons why fans were so invested in the relationship between Benson and Stabler. When it came time to film the kiss, it was important that the actors were comfortable with each other. They had to trust each other and feel safe in each other’s company. Luckily, Hargitay and Meloni had that chemistry and trust.
- The Perfect Moment: The kiss was not just thrown into an episode for a shock factor. The writers knew that they had to build up to it and that it had to happen at the right moment. That moment came in the episode “Zebras”. In this episode, Benson and Stabler are investigating a case involving Somali pirates. During a particularly intense moment, Stabler tells Benson that he loves her. This confession of love was the perfect moment for the long-awaited kiss to happen.
- One Take Wonder: The kiss between Benson and Stabler was filmed in one take. This is a testament to the acting abilities of Hargitay and Meloni. They were able to bring the emotion and intensity to the scene in one flawless take. This was important because if the kiss had been filmed in multiple takes, it might have lost some of its impact.
- The Impact: The kiss between Benson and Stabler had a huge impact on the show and its fans. It solidified the relationship between these two characters in a way that had not been done before. It also showed that the writers were not afraid to take risks and explore new territory with the characters. The kiss between Benson and Stabler set the tone for the rest of the series and is still remembered as one of the most iconic moments in television history.
Overall, the behind the scenes story of the kiss between Benson and Stabler is just as fascinating as the scene itself. The writers, actors, and crew all played a role in making this moment happen and it is a testament to the talent and hard work of everyone involved.
Impact of Stabler and Benson’s Kiss on Law and Order: SVU
Stabler and Benson’s kiss in the season 12 episode “Bombshell” was a major moment for fans of Law and Order: SVU. The long-awaited romantic tension between the partners finally reached a boiling point, but it was the aftermath of the kiss that really shook things up.
- Increased Fan Interest: The kiss generated a huge amount of buzz and media attention, drawing in new viewers and re-engaging longtime fans of the show. Many viewers were invested in the relationship between Stabler and Benson and tuned in to see what would happen next.
- Impact on Storylines: The kiss had a ripple effect on subsequent episodes and seasons. It changed the dynamic between Stabler and Benson, causing tension and awkwardness at times. It also opened up new storylines, including Stabler’s sudden departure from the show in season 13.
- Emotional Resonance: For many viewers, Stabler and Benson’s kiss was a deeply emotional moment. It was a culmination of years of implied romantic tension and a validation of the close bond between the partners. It was also bittersweet, as viewers knew that the two would never actually become a couple.
Overall, the impact of Stabler and Benson’s kiss on Law and Order: SVU cannot be overstated. It was a major moment in the show’s history and had far-reaching effects, both for the fictional world of the show and the real-world audience.
Table: Number of Viewers for “Bombshell” Episode of Law and Order: SVU
| Season | Episode | Viewers (in millions) |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | “Bombshell” | 9.31 |
The high viewership number for the “Bombshell” episode of Law and Order: SVU demonstrates the impact of Stabler and Benson’s kiss on the show’s audience. It was a major draw for viewers and helped to reenergize interest in the long-running series.
Stabler and Benson: Will They or Won’t They?
One of the most talked-about dynamics on Law & Order: SVU is the relationship between partners Elliot Stabler and Olivia Benson. Fans have been wondering for years if they will ever take their partnership to the next level and become romantically involved.
- In season 6, episode 8, “Doubt,” fans got a taste of what could have been when Stabler and Benson shared a passionate kiss while undercover.
- In season 12, episodes 1 and 2, “Locum” parts 1 and 2, Stabler and Benson again share a moment, this time in a dream sequence where they are married with children.
- Despite these moments, the show’s creators have stated that they never intend to take Stabler and Benson’s relationship in a romantic direction.
Despite the lack of romance between the two characters, their partnership and close friendship have been a cornerstone of the show since its inception. Their deep understanding and trust in each other have been integral to the success of the Special Victims Unit and have kept fans invested in their relationship for over two decades.
But with Christopher Meloni’s reprisal of his role as Elliot Stabler in the upcoming Law & Order: Organized Crime, fans are holding out hope for a romantic reunion between these two characters.
| Season Episode | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | Doubt | Stabler and Benson go undercover at a swingers club to investigate the rape of a woman. |
| 12(1/2) | Locum | In this dream sequence, Stabler and Benson are married with children, but both fall apart on revealing their marital problems and are shot while working together on a case. |
Only time will tell if fans will see Stabler and Benson together romantically, but for now, their strong partnership and friendship continue to be the heart of this beloved show.
What Episode Does Olivia and Elliot Kiss: 7 FAQs
1. Do Olivia and Elliot ever kiss?
Yes, Olivia and Elliot share a kiss in season 10, episode 9 titled “Smoked.”
2. What is the context of their kiss?
Olivia and Elliot’s kiss happens while they are working undercover as a couple to take down a sex trafficking ring. The intensity of their operation leads to a moment where they both give into their feelings.
3. What affect does their kiss have on their relationship?
The kiss creates a tension between the two that is palpable for the rest of their time on the show. While they continue to work together, their relationship changes as a result of the kiss.
4. Do Olivia and Elliot have a romantic relationship after the kiss?
No, Olivia and Elliot never have a romantic relationship beyond the kiss. They are very close partners and friends, but they never become a couple.
5. How do fans react to their kiss?
Fans were ecstatic and consider the kiss to be one of the highlights of the series. The moment has been talked about and dissected by fans since it first aired and remains a popular topic of discussion among fans of the show.
6. Are there any other moments between Olivia and Elliot that are considered romantic?
There are several moments throughout the show where Olivia and Elliot have a strong connection and flirtatious banter. However, their kiss in “Smoked” remains the most notable romantic moment between them.
7. Where can I watch the episode where Olivia and Elliot kiss?
You can watch the episode “Smoked” on a variety of streaming platforms, including Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and NBC’s website.
Closing Thoughts
Olivia and Elliot’s kiss is a memorable moment for both fans of Law and Order: SVU and the characters themselves. Although their relationship never becomes romantic, the kiss is a testament to the deep feelings that they share for each other. Thank you for reading these FAQs and we hope to see you again soon!