New Dynamics and Character Depths Unfold in ‘Law & Order’ Season 24

The 27th Precinct welcomes fresh changes as Season 24 of “Law & Order” unfolds on NBC. The series has introduced new dynamics with the arrival of Lieutenant Jessica Brady, portrayed by Maura Tierney, and Detective Vincent Riley, played by Reid Scott. Both characters have quickly become pivotal players in the narratives gripping the show’s fans.

Rick Eid, the show’s executive producer and showrunner, shared with NBC Insider that the team is keen on exploring the personal lives of the characters in depth this season. “It’s still ‘Law & Order,’ with its compelling and topical cases, but we’re trying to dig a bit deeper into who our people are,” Eid stated. This involves showcasing how personal lives intersect with professional duties.

Reid Scott, who joined the series last season, spoke to TODAY.com about his character, Detective Riley, whose family’s story takes a complicated turn. The episode “Big Brother” is set to explore Riley’s relationship with his brother, Matt Riley, played by Ryan Eggold. “He went one way in life, and I went another,” Scott explained, revealing contrasts that will be explored during the season.

Scott and Eggold’s personal camaraderie dates back to their time in Los Angeles, as revealed in an interview with Scott. “We kept up a nice sort of friendship and then did a movie together,” Scott recounted, referring to their time filming “Beside Still Waters.” Their off-screen bond translates to an on-screen dynamic where their characters are “on opposite sides of the law,” further complicating the series’ intricate plotlines.

The deeper dive into character backgrounds is a deliberate strategy by the show’s production team, according to Scott, and serves to renew interest in the long-running series. “We care about the people who are investigating the cases and those trying them,” Scott added, emphasizing the show’s evolved narrative approach.

The cast includes Mehcad Brooks as Detective Jalen Shaw, Odelya Halevi as Assistant District Attorney Samantha Maroun, and Hugh Dancy as Executive Assistant District Attorney Nolan Price, all contributing to the nuanced storytelling that aims to give audiences a “brand-new ‘Law & Order,'” as Scott describes.

The series’ new season airs Thursdays at 8/7c on NBC, with episodes available for streaming the next day on Peacock. The integration of personal story arcs is poised to not only inject fresh energy into the series but also deepen the connection between the audience and the characters they’ve followed for decades.