The Law and Order franchise has been a New York Institution since the original series debuted in 1990. The show has spawned numerous spinoffs, including Criminal Intent, Trial By Jury, and Organized Crime. Of course, we can’t forget the most successful version, Special Victims Unit. In fact, SVU has surpassed the original show in both seasons and episodes.
To be frank, considering how much location filming the series’ have done in New York City, it would be nearly impossible to track down the locations. In fact, I could probably post any random picture of Manhattan, and it’s likely appeared in an episode at one point.
One location that has been used consistently throughout all the New York-based series has been the courthouse. Interior courtroom scenes are filmed on a soundstage at Chelsea Pier. Exterior shots, however, are filmed at the New York County Courthouse in downtown Manhattan. The steps leading up to the front entrance have appeared in countless episodes over the years. If there is one location that any Law and Order fan should visit, it would be the Courthouse. Please keep in mind that this is an actual courthouse, and you should be respectful of those working here.
I’ve had the chance to meet 2 guest stars of Law and Order: Special Victims Unit over the years. I was actually an extra in a movie with Dean Winters, who plays Detective Brian Cassidy. I recently revisited the locations from that film, Undercover Angel. I’ve also had the chance to meet Ryan Buggle, who plays Olivia Benson’s son Noah. He is not just an actor, but a very talented dancer and has appeared on Broadway as well.
