For 15 years, 'Law & Order SVU' has been criticized for always playing the male perspective side of things, leaving little to no room for opposing angles of the story. But the latest season premiere was far different as Sergeant Olivia Benson fostered an orphaned child.

It has been four months since the mysterious death of Ellie, the prostitute who took the witness stand to resolve a case. Apparently, the case is one that is going to make a major impact in this season's plot, so when the presiding judge asked Ellie about her child's custody, Benson felt she needed to take over.

In an interview with E! Online, Mariska Hargitay commented on Benson's character transformation. "I love her more now than ever. I love her because I am challenged by her. I never know what's going to happen. She surprises me. [Warren Leight, showrunner] surprises me."

She added, "This character has evolved, which is the most exciting part of it. I feel in many ways she's a new character because she's gone through so much that has truly transformed her."

The 50-year-old actress said that having a child on the show not only redefined her character, but also shed some light on a dark-filled series of crime and violence. ' Law & Order SVU' took the right turn as critics put it.

Other casts include Danny Pino as Detective Nick Amaro, Kelli Giddish as Detective Amanda Rollins, Ice-T as Detective Fin Tutuola, Raúl Esparza as ADA Rafael Barba, and Peter Gallagher as Deputy Chief William Dodds.

Watch 'Law & Order SVU' every Wednesday night at 9 pm on NBC.