Photo:
- Metaweb
- CC-BY

10 Hollywood Icons You Forgot Guest Starred on 'Law & Order: SVU'

Updated January 26, 2025 62.2K views 10 items

Voting Rules

Vote for your favorite guest appearances on SVU

Law & Order: SVU has been a television powerhouse for over two decades, not just for its gripping cases and dedicated regular cast, but also for its remarkable ability to attract some of Hollywood's biggest names for guest appearances. Since its debut in 1999, the series has served as a proving ground for up-and-coming actors and a dramatic showcase for established stars looking to flex their creative muscles in New York City's most infamous fictional precinct. The show's reputation for tackling complex social issues and providing meaty dramatic roles has made it a magnet for talented performers looking to leave their mark on television history.

From comedy legends like Robin Williams and Carol Burnett to respected dramatic actors like Jeremy Irons, these guest stars have brought their considerable talents to some of SVU's most memorable episodes. While many viewers might remember the show's ripped-from-the-headlines plots or Detective Benson's powerful confrontations with perpetrators, they might have forgotten these incredible guest appearances that helped elevate the series beyond typical procedural fare. These performers didn't just show up to read their lines – they delivered powerful performances that added new dimensions to the show's exploration of justice and human nature.

- Photo:
  Metaweb
  CC-BY
1
Robin Williams
In one of the most memorable episodes of the ninth season, Robin Williams shattered the mold with his chilling portrayal on Law & Order: SVU. Known for his comedic genius and warm-hearted roles, Williams took a dark turn as a manipulative figure accused of impersonating a police officer. His character orchestrated a terrifying narrative that involved instructing a fast food manager to commit vile acts. The episode showcased Williams' incredible range as an actor, shedding light on the dark complexities of human behavior and leaving a lasting impact on the viewers.
- Dig Deeper 19 Small But Clever Details In Robin Williams Comedies
- Also ranks #1 on The 360+ Funniest People Of All Time
The Best Robin Williams Movies, RankedSee all
- 1The Fisher King
  4,722 Votes
- 2Good Morning, Vietnam
  3,287 Votes
- 3Mrs. Doubtfire
  4,173 Votes
- Photo:
  flickr
  CC0
2
Carol Burnett
When Carol Burnett graced the tenth season of Law & Order: SVU, she brought with her a wealth of acting prowess and gravitas, playing the enigmatic Birdie Sulloway. Famous for her comedic timing and sketches, Burnett took on a character far removed from her usual repertoire. In a plot filled with intrigue and tension, Burnett portrayed a woman entwined in a bizarre and unsettling relationship with her nephew, casting suspicion on herself for the murder of her husband. Her performance in "Ballerina" was a dramatic tour de force, blending mystery and depth that only a seasoned veteran like Burnett could deliver.
- Photo:
  flickr
  CC0
3
Martin Short
Martin Short brought an unusual blend of humor and deceit to his guest role during the sixth season of Law & Order: SVU. As a self-proclaimed psychic who volunteers to aid the detectives in a kidnapping case, Short's character added a layer of complexity that had viewers questioning his every word. Always known for his comedic brilliance, Short departed from his typical persona to portray a character peddling half-truths and ambiguity, leaving audiences enthralled by his performance and the intricate storyline it wove.
- Also ranks #1 on 19 Interviews From Dynamic Duos That Prove Two Is Better Than One
- Also ranks #2 on The Best One-Season 'SNL' Cast Members
What Co-Workers Have Said About Martin Short, The Nicest Guy In HollywoodSee all
- 1Tom Hanks
  396 Votes
- 2Joe Dante
  250 Votes
- 3Judd Apatow
  330 Votes
- Photo:
  Wikimedia Commons
  CC-BY
4
Matthew Lillard
Matthew Lillard made his mark on Law & Order: SVU as part of the tenth season, diving into a character steeped in dark and unusual dynamics. Known for his roles in cult classics, Lillard embraced the intricacies of a controversial relationship with his character's aunt, played by Carol Burnett. This stark departure from his iconic roles highlighted his capability to navigate challenging narratives, adding a layer of intrigue and taboo that lingered long after the episode concluded.
- Photo:
  Metaweb
  CC-BY
5
John Ritter
John Ritter's guest appearance in the third season of Law & Order: SVU showcased a profound depth in his acting capabilities. As a psychiatrist embroiled in a gut-wrenching storyline involving his wife's tragic ordeal, Ritter's portrayal was both haunting and sincere. He brought a nuanced depiction of sorrow and complexity to the screen, emphasizing the psychological undercurrents that define the series. This role marked one of Ritter's memorable television performances, intertwining his celebrated charisma with the somber realities of the show's themes.
- Dig Deeper Entertainers Who Died While Performing
- And Deeper Actors Whose Deaths Became Storylines
Every John Ritter Movie, RankedSee all
- 1Hero at Large
  24 Votes
- 2Sling Blade
  39 Votes
- 3Stay Tuned
  33 Votes
- Photo:
  Metaweb
  GNU Free Documentation License
6
Jeremy Irons
Jeremy Irons injected a touch of sophisticated turmoil into the Law & Order: SVU narrative when he appeared as Cap Jackson, a sex therapist with a troubled history. Known for his commanding performances and rich voice, Irons captivated as a therapist grappling with personal demons while withholding critical information from law enforcement. His character's internal battle with addiction and ethical dilemmas was portrayed with finesse, adding a layer of moral ambiguity that underscored Irons' adeptness at playing multifaceted roles.
- Photo:
  Wikimedia Commons
  CC-BY
7
Angela Lansbury
Angela Lansbury, a revered icon of the screen, brought unmatched poise to her sixth season appearance on Law & Order: SVU. In the episode titled "Night," she played the mother of a suspect, bringing a blend of dignity and complexity to the role. Known for her legendary stature in film and television, Lansbury's performance was imbued with an aura of mysterious elegance, cementing her status as a consummate professional capable of bringing depth and nuance to any character she portrayed.
- Photo:
  Metaweb
  CC-BY
8
Jennifer Love Hewitt
Jennifer Love Hewitt added emotional depth to the twelfth season of Law & Order: SVU with her portrayal of a long-suffering victim in the episode "Behave." Renowned for her roles in emotional dramas and horror thrillers, Hewitt skillfully encapsulated the fear and resilience of a character victimized over many years. Her heartfelt and compelling performance was a testament to her range as an actress, painting a vivid picture of trauma and survival that resonated deeply with the audience.
- Dig Deeper What Really Happened To Jennifer Love Hewitt?
- Also ranks #3 on The Most Gorgeous Girls On Primetime TV
The Best Jennifer Love Hewitt MoviesSee all
- 1I Know What You Did Last Summer
  152 Votes
- 2Heartbreakers
  167 Votes
- 3The Client List
  151 Votes
- Photo:
  Metaweb
  CC-BY
9
John Stamos
John Stamos stirred controversy and intrigue in the twelfth season by taking on the role of a “reproductive abuser.” Best known for his charming on-screen presence, Stamos enthralled viewers with a starkly different character—a man with a vast network of offspring, revealing a darker side of charisma. His performance in "Bang" provided a gripping narrative about exploitation and responsibility, showcasing Stamos’ ability to take on complex roles that challenge perceptions and illuminate societal issues.
- Photo:
  flickr
  CC0
10
Bob Saget
Bob Saget, widely beloved for his comedic roles, brought an unexpected edge to the eighth season of Law & Order: SVU. Playing a criminally inclined husband driven by jealousy, Saget left behind the comedic facade he was known for, opting instead to explore the dark recesses of obsession and intrusion. His appearance on the show was a radical departure from the lovable persona that had endeared him to millions, demonstrating his versatility and willingness to delve into challenging and diverse roles.
- Also ranks #1 on Beloved TV Stars Who Couldn't Be More Different From Their Signature Characters
- Also ranks #2 on 14 TV Stars Who Got Their Part After The Pilot Was Filmed
What Co-Stars And Fellow Comedians Said About Working With Bob SagetSee all
- 1Andrea Barber
  130 Votes
- 2Jeff Franklin
  95 Votes
- 3Norm Macdonald
  109 Votes