SVU Drama Ends; Chris and Mariska Sign for Two More Seasons

Several months ago we reported that although Law and Order: SVU had failed to secure a deal with it's two leads, Chris Meloni and Mariska Hargitay, according to NBC the show would continue on, with or without the two actors.  At the time I remember thinking that they had to be playing hardball with the two, and trying to sway the deal in their favor.  Today our good friend Michael Ausiello at EW.com broke the news that Chris Meloni and Mariska Hargitay have in fact signed a deal to return to the show, and not just for one season but for two.

Now, before you law and order fans start getting too excited, keep in mind that NBC has only picked up the show, so far, for one more season.  If NBC chooses to pick up SVU for an additional season after this one, then both stars are already lined up to return.

The tough negotiations apparantly involved the actors attempt to go after the show's back-end profits.  It's not completely clear which side caved, but word from Ausiello is that there was a compromise of some sorts.  For the whole scoop visit EW.com.