Law & Order: SVU has officially been renewed for a 21st season – making history as it becomes the longest-running prime-time television show. We’re all thankful to see our favorites characters returning to continue their story, but it seems like one will not be joining the others. Philip Winchester debuted his character ADA Peter Stone on SVU in the middle of season 19, replacing Raul Esparza’s popular Rafael Barba’s shoes. The character had crossed over from the now-canceled Chicago Justice and along with congratulating the team on SVU’s renewal, Winchester announced his departure from the show.
Sadly for me, Peter stone and his “the facts don’t care about you’re feelings” attitude will not be returning. A huge tip of the hat to my amazing fans and not so big of fans. You ALL make me work harder. Thank you! See you on the next adventure.
— Philip Winchester (@philipwinchestr) March 29, 2019
It’s unclear whether this is a personal decision or Stone not returning was something the higher-ups decided. Admittedly, he was not all that well-received by many. Even myself. Losing Rafael Barba was hard and it felt like the show was throwing Stone too much in our faces and giving him too much of a storyline when he had just got him and we had had Barba since season 14. It didn’t always feel like he clicked with the rest of the show, but Stone’s character had some redeeming qualities. It’ll be interesting to see who replaces him and can I suggest, Detective Dominick “Sonny” Carisi? After all, Carisi did pass the bar and who better to know the law and how police work works than an actual SVU detective?
Congratulations again to SVU on their milestone!
A girl with too many fandoms to count.
