New Yorkers, you have at least one more year of wondering when SVU will film on your block.

NBC has renewed Mariska Hargitay-led Law and Order: SVU for a 21st season, making it the longest-running live-action series in the history of television.

In terms of longevity, this renewal puts SVUahead of both its Dick Wolf predecessor Law & Orderand the Western drama Gunsmoke, each of which ran for 20 seasons.

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“I am deeply proud to be a part of this groundbreaking show, and humbled to make television history today,” Hargitay said in a statement. “The longevity and continued success ofSVUis a testament not only to the show’s powerful storytelling and ability to connect with viewers, but to its necessity. We have told important stories for 20 years, and we will continue to tell them.”

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Her character, Lt. Olivia Benson, an NYPD officer in the Special Victims Unit, is now also the longest-running female character in a primetime live-action series. Hargitay won an Emmy award in 2006 for her performance and has been nominated an additional seven(!) times.

“As SVUmoves into its third decade, Mariska has become an iconic figure as a star, advocate and crusader for women," show creator and executive producer Dick Wolf said in the statement.

Benson and her elite crew solve tough crimes related to domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. The show currently stars Ice-T, Kelli Giddish, Peter Scanavino, and Philip Winchester. However, Winchester announced he won't return for the next season.

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SVU's renewal isn't surprising news. The show maintains a strong fanbase even in its 20th season; the most recent episode amassed 4.3 million viewers, according to NBC.

Law & Order: SVU airs Thursday nights on NBC.

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TopicsNBC