Ice-T’s ‘Fin’ Getting Less Screen Time on SVU

Fans of “Law & Order: SVU” might notice a familiar face appearing less frequently this season. Ice-T, who has portrayed the iconic Sgt. Odafin ‘Fin’ Tutuola since 2001, recently revealed that his screen time will be reduced for Season 27. But don’t worry, he’s not leaving the show entirely!

Budgetary Decisions and Character Returns

In a conversation with TMZ, Ice-T explained that the change is purely a business decision. The show’s executives decided to bring back Amanda Rollins, played by Kelli Giddish, who had been a regular for over a decade before her departure three years ago. Due to budget constraints, keeping both Giddish as a regular and Ice-T on full-time wasn’t feasible.

“It’s just basically business. They brought Kelli back. At the end of the day, they couldn’t keep both of us on both times, as far as budget-wise,” Ice-T explained. He clarified that while he was initially concerned about his future on the show, producers assured him that his role was secure and that he would be making guest appearances throughout the season.

Looking Towards Season 28

Ice-T expressed his understanding and acceptance of the situation, viewing the reduced schedule as an opportunity to pursue other projects. He’s also focused on the long game, aiming to reach Season 28. “They said, ‘Ice, we’ll have you come in and out this year.’ Everybody wanted Kelli back. We have new cops. I am not leaving the show. I am more concerned with going to Season 28,” he shared.

Having been on the show for over two decades, Ice-T holds a special place in television history. In 2022, he was recognized as the longest-running male actor on a television show after celebrating 21 years as Fin. He remains committed to the “Law & Order” franchise, emphasizing, “I am not going to say anything negative about this show. They have taken care of me for so long.”