Derek Strauss Returns to SVU
Defense attorney Derek Strauss, portrayed by the talented Greg Germann, makes a compelling return to Law & Order: Special Victims Unit just in time for the much-anticipated Season 27 crossover with Law & Order. Germann’s portrayal of the shrewd and often ruthless attorney keeps the squads on their toes, showcasing a complex dynamic in the courtroom that fans have come to expect.
How to Watch
Fans can catch Law & Order: Special Victims Unit Thursdays at 9/8c on NBC and stream episodes the next day on Peacock.
The Struggles of the A.D.A.s
While Captain Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) and her dedicated squad work tirelessly to apprehend heinous criminals, the job of the Assistant District Attorneys (A.D.A.s) is to ensure justice is served—an endeavor that proves to be anything but straightforward. A.D.A. Sonny Carisi (Peter Scanavino) is no stranger to the courtroom antics of Strauss, whose presence often complicates the prosecution’s progress. With every case, Strauss has a knack for finding loopholes and exploiting them, making it all the more challenging for the A.D.A.s to secure a conviction.
A Troubling Return
Derek Strauss made a particularly controversial entrance during the recent two-hour crossover event with Law & Order, where he represented a millionaire tangled in a black market surrogacy mill and a human trafficking scheme. Germann’s portrayal reflects a keen understanding of his character’s multifaceted nature, thereby heightening the stakes in this gripping storyline.
Germann’s Career Highlights
Greg Germann is no stranger to the world of television and film. He first gained prominence in the early ’90s, taking on various roles in notable projects such as Child’s Play 2 (1990), So I Married an Axe Murderer (1993), and Clear and Present Danger (1994). His versatility allowed him to appear in a range of genres, including guest spots on shows like Miami Vice and L.A. Law.
As Andy Del Arto in Sweet Justice and Richard Fish in Ally McBeal, Germann established himself as a go-to actor for legal dramas. His more recent roles, including Hades in Once Upon a Time and Dr. Thomas Koracick in Grey’s Anatomy, demonstrate his adaptability and continued relevance in the industry.
Strauss’s Impact on SVU’s Storyline
Derek Strauss has established himself as a recurring thorn in the side of Olivia Benson and her team. Making his debut in Season 14’s “Undercover Blue,” Strauss expertly painted the narrative against police officers, almost trapping them in their own testimonies. His ability to manipulate situations and twist the facts keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
In his Season 15 return, he took on Detective Nick Amaro (Danny Pino), charging him with a hate crime, further showcasing his tendency to overshadow the cases with allegations that put law enforcement under a harsh microscope. His courtroom capabilities have made him a legendary adversary for the series’ heroes.
A Historic Adversary
Strauss’s impact grew significantly in Season 15 when he framed Olivia Benson herself as a murderer after the tragic death of the infamous serial killer William Lewis. This storyline exemplified Strauss’s relentless pursuit of justice—albeit through morally gray tactics. The dramatic tension between him and Benson added depth to their encounters, forever changing the dynamics of their confrontations.
Recent Appearances
In Season 18’s “Genes,” Strauss returned again, representing a rapist when he ultimately lost the case. His most recent appearance in Season 27 further cemented his character as a morally ambiguous lawyer, focused more on power than justice. As he continues to challenge the SVU squad, viewers are left wondering how they will counter his cunning legal maneuvers.
Tune In!
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is a show that thrives on drama, moral complexity, and compelling characters. With Derek Strauss back in the courtroom, we can expect more courtroom battles that test the limits of justice and the resilience of those who fight for it. Tune in every Thursday at 9/8c on NBC and catch up on the excitement next day via Peacock.
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