Behind the Badge: The Real-Life Loves of “Law & Order” Stars

While they fight crime and seek justice on screen, the stars of Law & Order build inspiring love stories off camera. Beyond the intense courtroom drama and gripping investigations, the cast enjoys rich, personal lives—some with decades-long marriages, others in fresh relationships, and a few happily single.

Mariska Hargitay and Peter Hermann: A Lasting Bond

Mariska Hargitay met Peter Hermann in the early 2000s. Their connection sparked quickly. After dating for three years, they married in 2004. Today, they remain strong partners, raising a family together and often sharing moments on social media and at events like the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.

Kelli Giddish and Beau Richards: Building a Family

Kelli Giddish wed Beau Richards in 2021. She frequently praises him as the best stepfather to her children. The couple shares warm family moments, both online and at premieres such as the 2025 Tribeca Festival.

Remembering Richard Belzer and Harlee McBride

Richard Belzer, known for his role as Detective John Munch, passed away in 2023. He and his wife, Harlee McBride, had been married since 1985, sharing decades of life together.

Ice-T and Coco Austin: A Power Couple

Ice-T and Coco Austin share a strong marriage and occasional screen appearances together on Law & Order. They often celebrate family milestones, keeping fans updated with heartfelt social media posts.

Mariska Hargitay and Peter Hermann with their children at the “Die My Love” red carpet at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 17, 2025, in France. | Source: Getty Images

Kevin Kane and Francis Benhamou: A Loving Partnership

Kevin Kane publicly celebrated his partner, Francis Benhamou, in 2024, calling her the source of all good in his life. The couple remains supportive both on and off the set.

Christopher Meloni and Sherman Williams: Patience and Partnership

Christopher Meloni married Sherman Williams in 1995. They have two children. Meloni credits patience as the key to their lasting marriage.

Danny Pino and Lilly Pino: A Shining Light

Danny and Lilly Pino marked 23 years together in 2025. Danny affectionately calls Lilly “the brightest light” and “the North Star” in his heartfelt social media posts.

Peter Scanavino and Lisha Bai: A Decade of Marriage

Peter Scanavino and his wife Lisha Bai celebrated 10 years of marriage in 2021. He describes meeting her as the best thing that ever happened to him.

Juliana Aidén Martinez: Focused on the Craft

Juliana Aidén Martinez keeps her personal life private and seems single. She jokingly admits to being in love with co-star Mariska Hargitay since they met.

Kelli Giddish and Beau Richards with their children from a post dated June 16, 2025. | Source: Instagram/botorious

Dann and Karen Florek: Unlikely Friendships and Lasting Love

Married to Karen Florek, Dann Florek made headlines in 2022 for an unusual friendship with a food blogger who bought their former home.

BD Wong and Richert Schnorr: Years of Connection

BD Wong and Richert Schnorr celebrated six years together in 2024. They have known each other for 16 years, sharing a deep bond.

Tony Goldwyn and Jane Musky: Nearly Four Decades of Marriage

Tony Goldwyn and Jane Musky have been married for almost 40 years. He credits respect as the foundation of their strong relationship.

Reid Scott and Elspeth Keller: From Pen Pals to Partners

Reid Scott and Elspeth Keller connected as college pen pals before marrying in 2014. Their unique bond has grown stronger over the years.

Hugh Dancy and Claire Danes: A Growing Family

Hugh Dancy and Claire Danes share three children. In 2023, Hugh joked about convincing Claire to appear on Law & Order with him.

Richard Belzer and Harlee McBride at the Black & White Ball on October 29, 2008, in New York. | Source: Getty Images

Mehcad Brooks and Frida Brooks: A Loving Tribute

In 2024, Mehcad Brooks celebrated his partner Frida Brooks’s birthday with a touching social media tribute, highlighting her amazing nature.

Odelya Halevi and Aaron Mazor: Engaged and Unwinding Together

Odelya Halevi got engaged to Aaron Mazor in 2023. She revealed her favorite way to relax after work is cuddling with him at home.

Maura Tierney: Private and Focused

Maura Tierney keeps her personal life under wraps after her split from former husband Billy Morissette. She remains focused on her career.

Real Lives, Real Love

From decades-long marriages to new romances and private lives, Law & Order stars prove their off-screen stories are just as compelling as the characters they bring to life.