Law & Order: SVU Faces Backlash Over Immigration Episode

NEW YORK, NY — Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is attracting criticism from supporters of former President Donald Trump over its Season 27 premiere episode, which portrayed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in a controversial light.

The episode, which aired last week, follows Detective Olivia Benson, played by Mariska Hargitay, as she investigates a sexual assault involving a key witness: an undocumented maintenance worker named Jorge “George” Ruiz. The episode depicts ICE targeting Ruiz, which sparked ire among MAGA supporters who claim it sends a negative message about law enforcement.

Megyn Kelly addressed the controversy during her program, The Megyn Kelly Show. She criticized the portrayal of ICE agents as villains, saying, “Just the other night, Law & Order: SVU had an episode that was ripping on ICE, trying to make ICE look like a bunch of dirty b*******.”

In her comments, Kelly emphasized the dangers faced by ICE, referencing a recent incident in which agents were shot at. She questioned the timing of the episode, noting it aired just days after the attack.

Katie Miller, a conservative podcast host, echoed Kelly’s sentiments on social media, stating, “If you have any curiosity who is stoking the violence against our brave ICE officers, this is the premiere episode of NBC. Why is NBC condoning this?” Her post garnered over 760,200 views and 20,000 likes.

Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin released a statement condemning the episode. “NBC and Hollywood elites must stop fanning the flames of division,” she said, emphasizing the dangers faced by ICE officers and the importance of their role in protecting the public.

Reactions to the episode have been widespread on social media. Critics argue the show has become politicized, with comments ranging from accusations of “propaganda” to calls for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to take action. However, some viewers defended the show, arguing that it reflects complex realities of law enforcement and immigration.

Law & Order: SVU continues to air new episodes each Thursday at 9 p.m. ET on NBC and is available for streaming the next day on Peacock.