Law & Order: SVU Finale Shocker: Not Returning for Season 17
The following story contains spoilers about Wednesday’s Law & Order: SVU finale, so hit the nearest exit if the episode is still sitting on your DVR.
When Law & Order: SVU kicks off Season 17 this fall, it will be down an officer.
RELATEDMay Sweeps Scorecard 2015: Weddings, Deaths, Breakups, Sex, Resurrections, Firings and More!
In Wednesday’s finale, a near-death experience prompted Det. Nick Amaro to make a major life change: he informed Olivia that he was leaving the NYPD and relocating to the West Coast to be near his family. And the decision will stick, as TVLine has confirmed that his portrayer, Danny Pino, will not be returning to the show next season.
RELATEDSVU Finale Diss: Does Stabler Deserve the Shade Benson Just Threw?
“It seemed to be, in a strange way, right for Amaro to start fresh somewhere else,” showrunner Warren Leight told TVGuide.com. “It’s not to say any of us enjoys it, but it seems like that’s where the story was going and I think all of the actors felt like the exit was honored.”
Pino joined SVU in Season 13 following the departure of co-lead Chris Meloni.
Thoughts? Bummed to see Pino — and Amaro — go? Hit the comments!
Launch Gallery: May Sweeps 2015: Most Shocking Deaths
Related stories
SVU Stars Weigh In on Season of Transition, Tease Cliffhanger Finale: 'It Doesn't End Well!'
Lost's Sideways Sawyer Faces Cold Case's Scotty Valens in Hot-Cop Quarterfinals!
Law-Enforcement Hotties Round 3 Ends With Criminal Minds vs. NCIS, L&O vs. Cold Case
Get more from TVLine: Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Newsletter
