Benson Tells Barba Why She Felt Betrayed by Him | NBC’s Law & Order: SVU

[@lovelee3890]

God…. Barba really did age like fine wine

[@SuperSoldier26]

He aged handsomely

[@gabygaby5701]

He looks gorgeous. Such a handsome and elegant guy

[@ethanshusband8913]

what season and episode?

[@damedrops8197]

I miss Barber. He was one of the best characters on the show, and one of my faves.

[@Angel-hn1th]

How she fell for everyone but Barba is beyond me.

[@SuperSoldier26]

She’s an impossible character to understand sometimes

[@SuperSoldier26]

Rafael Barba was the best man for her and she just tossed him away like that. Not a good idea and not a good move, Olivia

[@PiazzaGurl]

THANK YOU! And he’s clearly still in love with her and is hoping that she wakes up and realizes that’s he’s there and he’s always been there.

[@SuperSoldier26]

Barba is the perfect match for her and she's just pushing him away. Shameful

[@SuperSoldier26]

@@PiazzaGurl Right

[@gideonstivers5287]

I miss: - Stephanie March - BD Wong - Diane Neal - Richard Belzer - Marcia Gay Harden - Tamara Tunie

[@SuperSoldier26]

I know right?

[@kahjatraylor2063]

Amen

[@SuperSoldier26]

I miss them too. Such good characters they are and who they've played

[@rachelfigueroa3681]

I miss Richard the most 😔 he was my favorite!!!

[@Mochabeauty23]

YES!!!

[@2nriter]

He did so many things right here. He was her truth teller. He didn’t apologize for his actions but validated her feelings.He was not going to be a verbal punching bag and put that to an end when he stood up and left.. Man, I kind of fell a little bit in love with him myself during this clip. Never even considered her with anyone but Stabler, but at this point, it almost feels like Barba would be way healthier for her. Or maybe their relationship will not be actualized if she doesn’t have those romantic feelings for him in her heart, which is also OK, but she is richer for having a true friend who is a truth teller in her life.

[@BeeDeBose_cpow]

She definitely feels something for Rafael too. She’s just so wrapped up in Elliot. It’s why all of her relationships fail because she wants everyone to be Elliot but they will obviously never be Elliot. Rafael is the better choice but she will continue to put him on the back burner because Olivia Benson is foolishly in love with the wrong guy. 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@claudinefaure9090]

@@BeeDeBose_cpow I love your comment !

[@ruadhrose]

@@BeeDeBose_cpow Except Barba left her too. And he did it KNOWING all she’d been through. So is he really better than Elliot? Elliot was safe for Olivia to love because he was unavailable to pursue. He was married and committed to his family. Barba wasn’t. If they had feelings why not act on them??? Barba was a good friend but clearly lousy in the relationship department.

[@Shayesbel87]

IN FULL AGREEMENT

[@2nriter]

@@ruadhrose He didn't leave her. Her drew the limits on being verbally abused. There is a difference.

[@l9898_]

the man really said stabler is a bully, you have daddy issues, I love you and I'll still be here when you are ready, in less than 30 sec.😎 Okay Barba tell me how you really feel

[@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313]

Truth to be told. Sure Liv is not happy with that. But she knows Barba will be there to collect the pieces if she falls apart.

[@timbuyoti1198]

Nice summary 😂 spot on 👌

[@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313]

don't know if he would feel ok meeting Olivia pretty often around 60Center Str and knowing she is happy with some one else. (Stabler),,,,

[@preciouswilliams22]

It's the AUDACITY for me, & I loved EVERY SINGLE MINUTE OF IT😂😂😂 Barba & Benson season 24, let's go🔥🔥

[@2nriter]

Spot on! Awesome summation!

[@togemon4707]

Can we get Huang, Melinda, Novak and Cabot back too?

[@davidburke2132]

I always loved him as a character. Him and Jack McCoy were by far my favourite DAs in the Law and Order franchises. They felt like those kind of lawyers who you really hope exist… the ones motivated by principle and getting the right result (although to be fair Jack in particular does some sneaky things over the years to try to get an end result 😜) and who are smart enough to pull it off most of the time.

[@spankytank82]

I want Huang back so bad

[@briandavidson1946]

They will all return fir BENSLERS MARRIAGE

[@JamaicanRain]

Huang, especially. He’s smart and calm and IDK if it is the actor shining through instead of Huang, but anyway, Huang!!! Getting rid of him was awful.

[@007private]

are you stalking my dreams 🤣🤣lol jk but yes i would love at least 2 out of 3 of them !! lol

[@tyresmith9833]

Barba was right tho. Olivia puts Elliot on this high pedestal as if he could or haven’t done no wrong. She lets her feelings for him cloud her judgement way too much sometimes and covers it up as I’ve known him for 23 years. You know him but yet he abandoned you for 10 years without a call or letter and as soon as he came back, she was once again putting him on that pedestal. I love Olivia, but she needs to stop. Throughout the first 12 years, Stabler did a lot of things that were unprofessional and out of line and every time he got in trouble, she protected him.

[@ABirdOnTheMoon]

This .. she is all that teen with puppy eyes when he shows up .. Nothing more humiliating than leading her up then leaving all of a sudden [for his wife and to save his marriage and family] and everyone in the station knew .. it wasn't a secret. Olivia sold herself cheap when she decided she will love him no matter what .. she put him higher than herself. He walked all over her before .. broke the system a few times and she cover for him .. He is not a decent guy .. he has his flaws but somehow .. she sees none .. She "knows him" .. and that's why he keeps screwing her up!? I mean .. she is seriously delusional .. I don't watch the show now but I truly wish he walks away again .. breaks her heart again because .. if not .. she is the side cake .. kept on the side .. for whenever he pleases .. he'll come back and taste it!?

[@claudinefaure9090]

@@ABirdOnTheMoon exactly how I feel .... He can treat her like an underdog again, she will be fine. She is not a strong woman, she behaves like a groupie.

[@SuperSoldier26]

@@ABirdOnTheMoon hahahahaha good one

[@SuperSoldier26]

@@claudinefaure9090 or like a child

[@claudinefaure9090]

@@SuperSoldier26 yes exactly!

[@markcaldwell2831]

Barba was the best DA and one of the few reasons I got hooked on SVU after he turned up.

[@skepple1554]

That “Rafa” holy I could feel the emotion in that

[@JESSICÃO-l2j]

What episode is this?

[@G-man22]

@@JESSICÃO-l2j season 23 episode 22

[@aimeekessell5022]

When she said she’s known him for 23 years, I wanna be like; “We just gonna pretend Stabler didn’t disappear without a word for 10 years and didn’t even call her once during that time?”

[@williethomas5116]

He called her out beautifully. How many times did Stabler cross the line in abusing suspect. Yeah, in the end the ends supposedly justified the means. But there were a few times when he was wrong and every time she protected him. She made excuses when he was out of line and constantly looked the other way because she cared about him. Here she learns Barbs defended a monster to protect her because one attempt on her life had been made. But she could barely offer a bit of empathy. Barba was right. If you love someone you can try to excuse anything.

[@emeralddetective]

Even if she had said the amount of time that they've been talking which is fifteen years, it's more than she's known Barba. Elliot was her closest friend and confidante. He hurt her, but she's chosen to let him back in her life. Rafael has to respect that. It just seems like he has no respect after bringing up Olivia's "fatherless" past, considering her father was her mother's rapist.

[@jacory354]

But it was different he's wife died she knew the family she knew the he's kids since they were little.

[@vmaninc.761]

Stabler wouldn't have done what Barba did he wouldn't have allow himself to be used that way, he wouldn't allow someone guilty force him to attack someone innocent just to protect her, she understood why he didn't reach out to her all those years after the shooting of a child she may have not liked how he did it but she understood none the less hence why she could easily forgive him when he came back into her life for as he admitted if she did ask him to stay he would have and that essentially would have doomed his marriage to his wife, as much as he was in love with Olivia he still loved his wife enough to remain faithful to her and kept his heart true to her which is why they are perfect for each other and no one will ever change my mind on that I will die on this hill proudly Tony Stark/ Iron Man style!BENSLER FOREVER!!!!😘😉👍

[@magzjay2458]

@@vmaninc.761 more excuses. He abandoned her. She went through so much and he was no where to be found. She was always there for him. She forgave him so quickly

[@cche16]

finally everyone is telling olivia the harsh truth. no more denying a 23 year emotional affair. kathy was saying the same thing to stabler for years. she has no choice but to confront these feelings. barba is right. she always excuses his behaviour and what he did was worse. he abandoned her when he was the only family she had and the only stable man in her life.

[@bbycheeks25]

Yassss!!!!!

[@kephrenh]

It’s strange that we are judging someone negatively for putting his wife and kids first. Was he supposed to stay around, torn between the duty to his family and love for Olivia? And let’s even entertain the idea that he left his wife back then for her. Would Olivia really be with him? We are talking about a woman who still doesn’t know what she feels about him after 20 years. And if she did, would that relationship survive the hurt it caused to Elliot’s family?

[@tori2dles]

@@kephrenh - Though I gave you a 👍🏼 for the first part of your statement, as I agree that we shouldn’t cheer on the prospect of an affair or the demise of a marriage. However, I’m not quite sure you know the back story exactly. Apologies if you do know it and I’m not sharing anything new. Elliot & Kathy had been trying to make things work for a long, long time before the decision was made to split. But then Kathy found out she was pregnant and, being very good Catholics, they remained married and had the baby. So that is when Elliott took the job overseas. You see, the abandonment was not so much that Stabler left, but it was the way he did it. He didn’t tell Liv to her face that he’d made the decision to leave NYC. He just did it and left Cragen (their Captain at the time) to tell her. Stabler left without a word and remained silent all those years he was away. So THAT was the abandonment she speaks of - just that void of silence.

[@kephrenh]

@@tori2dles I am not sure he would have been able to leave if he faced her. I think that’s why he left the way he did. It was wrong but safer for both of them.

[@maryjordan6]

Elliot and Olivia are very similar: devoted to the truth and justice. Elliot couldn’t break his family, Olivia couldn’t break Stabler family although they were in love. Elliot knew that the only way was to disappear. Lot of hurt, but he had another 10 year of the “happy family”. And now… let’s face their destiny: happy together.

[@monicaw.3384]

Her therapist was right. Liv has this idealized view of Stabler so it's held her hostage. Sadly no one would/will compare to him and that's why a lot of her relationships have failed. I love that Barba called her out. A true friend would. I have watched this show from season one and honestly, Liv went through a lot but her professional and especially her personal life got better once she accepted Stabler being gone. I want her to experience love; however, it can't be with Stabler. The beauty of their friendship is that nothing ever happened between them. Also, he could have chosen Olivia in past when he and Kathy separated but he didn't (Season 7). My vote is for Barba 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@theresashelton7044]

I strongly CONCUR!💞

[@delmicortave]

I feel the same and I love the way you put it the beauty of Oliva and elliot friendship is that nothing ever happened or will happened between them.

[@omarcogle1965]

@@delmicortave Don't forget, Olivia said to Nick Amaro, when he was leaving that she grew with him in the 4 years she had with him as a partner then she did with Elliot in the 12 years she was with him.

[@monicaw.3384]

@@omarcogle1965 facts. Forgot about that 🤔

[@rizzog3766]

I totally agree with you.Liv must stop idealize her relationship with Elliott and decide between them.Personnaly, I want Liv to be happy and she deserves it.I'm with Barba coz when she knew him she changed and she matured with Rafa and even got Noah. I want her to be with Barba coz he knows her and her story and want to be with her and Noah.

[@kastrie89]

Rafa really would've been the ideal man for her. For ten years, she heard not one word from Stabler...he suddenly shows up and now, its like she's forgotten all rhyme and reason. Rafa was right to call her out. I always knew on some level he loved her, like how hurt he was when he found out that she and Tucker were involved. However, the beauty in his love for her is that he doesn't sugarcoat the truth; he tells her exactly what it is and the truth is, she had no right to ask him not to defend Wheatley nor does she get to feel betrayed by him. He had the right to make that decision for himself and she needed to respect him, regardless.

[@SuperSoldier26]

I'm glad he did call her out

[@kastrie89]

@@SuperSoldier26 So am I. To me, he really was the only one that wasn't afraid to call her out on anything.

[@alexandraanderson3988]

He has no right to do that 👍▶️ its none of his business 😭😔 just like the tucker situation which he sticked his nose is was none of his he doesn't even know her like that the way stabler does plus their relationship has been nothing but professional relationship all these years when he was still a lawyer

[@SuperSoldier26]

That's right and he was right to call her out and to speak his mind. YES AND D**N RIGHT!!!!

[@SuperSoldier26]

Right you are @kastrie89. Right you are my friend

[@oliviabarnes9007]

I have always thought that this series was extremely well done, and this scene is just a testament to that! I think what really "works" here is not just what is being said but also what is said between the lines so to speak. Both Esparza & Hargitay are fantastic actors you can really see it in their body language and subtle facial expressions as well as in their eyes. In my opinion everything that Barba said was on point and truthfully Liv needed to hear it. I have been amazed how much she has forgiven Stabler even after he left her for ten years. While Barba & Benson is not a pairing I would have originally chosen, I think it would be interesting for the writers to explore this.

[@thelmacastaneda6785]

I agree I truly believe that barba loves Liv, but is also in love with Liv. He’s been her confidant for years now and he’s been so loyal and I love their relationship, I think they should’ve explored the possibility of an actual intimate relationship. I also like Langan, not just cause he’s Harkitays husband irl but cause I actually believe they make an interesting couple after he helped Liv with Noah’s adoption

[@claudinefaure9090]

And after he came back on the show, he ghosted her again,,, because he was undercover. But as soon he is in danger, after he did some drugs, he reached to her place as his safe place, his harbor and his rescue .. Both of them played the emotions very well.

[@ashleygrant3131]

Great point- I agree with all of it except for her and barba being together… her and stabler have to somehow find a way!

[@rosehollis9639]

I I think people keep forgetting why Elliot left Elliot lost because they shot a girl named Jenna it was a breaking point for him when he came back he told Liv if I heard your voice I wouldn't have left he he didn't leave her out of spite or to be mean he just couldn't handle it anymore so while everyone out is judging him I understand I am bipolar 63 yrs old and get where he was coming from he wasn't the bad guy

[@JESSICÃO-l2j]

What episode is this?

[@SuperSoldier26]

2:24-2:52 The way he responded to Olivia when she was calling him by saying "What?" shows that he is pissed off

[@JESSICÃO-l2j]

What episode is this?

[@fizzybubbles715]

Anyone here anxiously anticipating Barba’s return?

[@Ali_Poison]

Me after watching this episode for fisrt time today. Tell me if Barba came on s24?

[@fizzybubbles715]

Nope, at least not yet. Really hoping the 2nd half will deliver!

[@JojoIi-ym4vs]

@@Ali_Poisonwhich episode is this?

[@SuperSoldier26]

@@JojoIi-ym4vsA Final Call At Forlinis

[@SuperSoldier26]

I wish he would return

[@rubyr6358]

Rafael Barba is one of the most refreshing and original characters on television in recent history. This scene just proves that and more. I believe Liv/Barba and Liv/Elliot have completely different relationship dynamics (as they should) and I for one am extremely pleased to see such a healthy approach to platonic friendships in mainstream media. There's boundary setting, mutual love and respect and an instant connection on a few deeper levels. Rafa all but declaring his unconditional love for Liv is a) iconic and b) shows that hetero platonic friendships can be emotionally intimate without that "something more" (thank you, Dr Lindstrom). Is my bias for an EO endgame clouding this opinion? Most likely. I also believe the chemistry between the two isn't strong enough for that romantic connection that the likes of Carisi/Rollins has, let alone Liv/Elliot (which again, the chemistry (and yes, toxicity - let's be honest) is on a whole other level). TLDR; Hargitay and Esparza absolutely knock this scene out of the park and I would give many things to see reparations play out in the new season.

[@rhemaime-albert6089]

I see a healthy Platonic friendship more with Fin, I think theres more to Liv and Barba and Liv and Elliot. Liv and Elliot were basically having an emotional affair for years. I think with Barba it truly was a friendship that grew into more complex feelings that neither of them have quite unpacked.

[@gjln5424]

I do not think the relationship between Barba and her simply platonic. If it was, even with a bad disagreement, there would not be this level of angst. It started out that way for sure, but somewhere in the later part of his run, it is quite clear that Barba had started falling for her. You can see it in the later seasons, especially in Season 19, the way he looks at her, always wants to know whether she is upset with him, wanting to be the first to wish her happy birthday...these are not the actions of platonic friends with nothing more. Problem is, I do not think she feels the same way lol. Benson clearly has a type - and sadly for Barba, it tends to be someone that exudes tough guy masculinity (Tucker/Stabler/Cassidy). I think her "I miss you too" was her way of letting him down easy.

[@Starlightndust]

​@gjln5424 yes. I also agree. Liv always hies fir the tough, masculine type. Barba is too healthy for her. I was sad when he left the show. Currently watching the reruns. I've also hot a crush on Barba! Lol. I think he's a hottie.

[@gabygaby5701]

You barely see Olivia in this scene… it’s all Barba. Olivia is way too lame.

[@chloe_3787]

Come on, NBC, bring back Alex or Casey or both, give Olivia some friends, and let her talk this all out with them. Or even send Liv out to dinner with Amanda. Anything to give her a female friendship she can rely on.

[@ryanhall7827]

shes alone they always have been trying to show she has trouble making friends and forming relationships for some reason

[@angelface101ful]

@@ryanhall7827 when in reality she doesn’t have an issue

[@angelface101ful]

Yess!!!! That’d be so nice

[@ryanhall7827]

@@angelface101ful i guess its not dramatic enough when her personal life is going well so they can have this really terse conversation instead of having a nice conversation about how much they really care for eachother since they want to keep bensler rumors alive instead noah is the only nice interactions she has when it could be way more people

[@lepjagman]

She's not friends with Rollins?

[@SellavinAtoms]

The tension between them is so thick even a knife wouldn't cut it.

[@mulanijohnson8936]

OMG Did Barba just Admit to Loving / In Love with Benson🤔❤️🥺I Miss The Old Days with The Old Original Cast.

[@endah6958]

And unconditionally at that

[@b.n1429]

Barba would have been good for Liv.

[@melissatorres9151]

"I miss you" ❤

[@JESSICÃO-l2j]

What episode is this?

[@thespace2983]

When he said, “I do know what it is to love someone unconditionally” I bawled. He loves her but she is devoted to Elliot. Deeply flawed Elliot. Gos this episode was so emotional. Seeing Barba again😍

[@TennantJunkie1993]

Raf was talking about Yelina.

[@jazzyjonas6646]

@@TennantJunkie1993 who was she?

[@TennantJunkie1993]

@@jazzyjonas6646 Alex's wife. Raf had feelings for her at some point but Alex won her over with his charismatic charm.

[@naturistfred]

Are we supposed to buy that Barba is in love with Olivia? 👀

[@alexandraanderson3988]

@@TennantJunkie1993 Yeah I don't know I doubt he was thinking about her right in that moment lol

[@literallyabee7883]

Bring back Alex Cabot

[@roxanafarjat5795]

It’s not fair the amount of talent on Raul 💕! He is one of the reasons I got involved in professional musical theatre (and I hope I can thank him face to face one day for changing my life in this way). But honestly in the past seasons sometimes (very few) I felt his acting a little too “theatrical” (which is perfectly normal cause it’s what’s he’s used to do) and in camera it looked a bit over the top… like his last scene when he says goodbye to Liv. But now I honestly think he’s equally a stage AND a camera actor, this performance is so on point, so human, so honest, that I forgot Rafael Barba is not a real person, and I cried and wanted to hug him. My entire admiration. Mariska perfect as always.

[@christinajordan1082]

Raul is a really good singer and actor!

[@deno5555]

Rafa's the best. Love him

[@Mania008]

Why Liv acting like Stabler didn't disappear for 10 years without even contacting her.

[@lifewithlaysia.]

When you love someone so much you can out look their biggest flaw it’s sad but true

[@Rosetrellis]

Exactly, Rafa was always there for her no matter what, he was there both times she was kidnapped and her son and Elliot didn’t even call to ask if she was ok. I am team Barson all the way!!

[@dar-mar]

Elliot did put his family first. He would’ve never left them for Liv, no matter how much some wanted him to, or how much he wanted to, that was always out of his character. So as much as it sucked that he left without saying bye I think deep down they both knew why

[@Rosetrellis]

@@dar-mar oh no, I get why he did what he did, it’s a lot of really bad things happened to her in the time he was gone and I think she could have really needed even just a text from him.

[@dar-mar]

@@Rosetrellis from what I saw before, apparently there was a deleted scene where he sent her a badge and that’s the one that’s been glued to the “butt” of her gun (until she got kidnapped and nearly killed by it and now it’s in the evidence locker or something). But also once he left, I don’t think he had any clue what was going on with her, if he did wage would’ve showed up. But you also gotta keep in mind that at the time there was no talk about Meloni coming back to the show at all, he was as good as dead. So perhaps now they could put in the show that he finds out everything that happened to her while he was gone to show he had no idea about anything, rather than that he didn’t care, which would be, again, totally out of character for him. I think if he knew, and even told his wife “yo, Liv nearly died etc”, I don’t think she would’ve stopped him from contacting her. Because of the way show was moving on without Chris, we just kind of have to forget all those things he SHOULD’VE done all those years, cause his return was not in the cards then.

[@sadia_]

Stabler ABANDONED Liv. He left for 11ish years WITHOUT a word. Without a note. Nothing. Whereas Rafa has been through thick and thin with Liv since then! The line 'i do know what it's means to love someone unconditionally' 😢❤️❤️ oh Barba, we love you.

[@SuperSoldier26]

Absolutely

[@maxcardun]

Well you also have to take into account what drove Stabler to quit the SVU, why he left the way he did, and also take into account that he was MARRIED at the time!

[@SuperSoldier26]

​@@maxcardun don't do that. Don't put him on a high pedestal like Olivia does

[@maxcardun]

@@SuperSoldier26 From what I observed from his recent actions, Barba used Richard Weatley's defense task as an escuse to make an attempt to make Elliot look bad, with all those subtle messages about obsession and him being undercover, and using the defense of Delia Hackman as an escuse to try to talk nice to Benson while she was on the stand, seeing as she was not talking to him because she asked him not to defend the worst organized crime boss in New York. Even Carisi did not appreciate that let alone Barba's presence in the courtroom. No... I'm not saying that I am one of those people who want Elliot and Olivia to get a room, ( I rather enjoy the fact that these two are not giving the "fans" what they want.) but despite his many flaws Elliot did not make any subtle messages against Barba, nor did he make any personal jabs against him, even if it could have helped that attempted ruse which put Wheatly's Trial into a hung jury turned mistrial.

[@SuperSoldier26]

Absolutely and is the perfect man for him

[@toddsmitts]

"I've known him for 23 years and he always had my back." Except for the 10 years he ghosted you.

[@frankcharlotte2923]

Agreed when Barba left svu he stayed in touch Elliot not once did that

[@radicalreactions1633]

@@frankcharlotte2923 Exactly right!

[@Isabella2335.]

@@frankcharlotte2923 exactly!

[@keantedobosu3194]

Ok well he's back now 🤣🤣

[@queenheart6167]

@@keantedobosu3194 Just to spoil everything.

[@TvGyrl]

Barba has been in love with Benson for yrs.

[@violetrose1918]

And Benson’s been in love with Stabler for years

[@SuperSoldier26]

@violetrose1918 what?

[@SuperSoldier26]

@@violetrose1918hardly

[@SuperSoldier26]

That's so true

[@krissymconnorsvlog7321]

I hope they bring barba back more future episodes ❤

[@ΧριστίναΑρβανιτάκη-ω3θ]

He really is the best

[@melissatorres9151]

Sorry Liv, but I'm on Barba's side on this one.

[@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313]

Me too !

[@claudinefaure9090]

He spoke out her 'feelings' for Stabler. He knows her very well. And he knows that he only has to go. So she can make her mind. She doesn't want him out of her life. I hope he can trust her again. He's always been honest toward Benson, and she has to know how he feels about her. Benson always confused about her feelings. And she has to make a decision of her own.

[@kimberly11091]

Same here

[@SuperSoldier26]

So am I

[@SuperSoldier26]

​@@claudinefaure9090 yep

[@preciouswilliams22]

I'm just happy to see Barba & Benson together again😊 Rafael made a GOOD POINT, I love Stabler too, BUT, Stabler needs to be held MORE accountable cause he wrongfully ghosted Liv for TEN YEARS... That energy needs to be reserved for El!

[@esthershin9690]

What is that look she gives him when he says he loves her unconditionally?

[@claudinefaure9090]

Actually he did not say that he loves unconditionnally but she loves Stabler unconditionnally. . But he will be there for her. And he walks out of the room... and Olivia got that she is losing the only one who cares for her. He deserves better than a Liv who's still in awe with her ex partner. Ten years for nothing. + It is so unexpected from Barba ... He reminds her that they plan to be squabbling together when they are 85...=the good old days

[@icoleman150]

Honestly I watched this episode and I still don’t think Barba did anything he needed to apologize for. He is a defense attorney, he took on a client and he didn’t know or owe Stabler anything. Benson can’t dictate what cases he takes. I’m over Stabler quite frankly.

[@nadiahassan5307]

THANK YOU yes 👍🏻

[@kuywasaamazikeen8048]

Me too ffs

[@sell8789]

I watched the scene for spoilers and I can't believe he apologised. He is trying to make amends with Olivia, but Barba has not regretted the decision he made. Olivia is the one who needs to stop being such a child.

[@anniebunny722]

Barba doesn’t owe or need to apologize to Liv for anything here. It’s all on her and how she feels. Barba is right in that Wheatley is dead. But, on her side, this was a man who hurt another friend and his family, people she’s known for years. Liv is still holding onto this grudge I think because she can’t decide between Stabler and Barba. That’s my personal take. Even if things don’t become romantic between her and Barba, I still want him in her life, being a best friend that he was to her when Elliot was gone.

[@coreyjohnston9195]

Liv needs to get over it damn.

[@MelekBetul]

The caption should have been "Barba tells Benson like it is."

[@SuperSoldier26]

Oh that’s a good one too

[@jjs1300000]

Rafael is a good friend, I’m glad he told her the truth.

[@SuperSoldier26]

Yep and I'm glad he told her straight

[@heiheinoo3871]

I miss Barba!

[@porshamallen]

I love this man!!! 😩🥰 The best lawyer & one of the best people on the show! Liv can be so irritating sometimes! Give this man his award!

[@SuperSoldier26]

Oh yeah 🎉

[@SuperSoldier26]

Amen

[@alexandraanderson3988]

She's irritating???😢😞 for feeling the way she does towards she does to him after defending Wheatley after she begged and told him not 🚫 too lmaoo 😁😅😊 yeah right???

[@porshamallen]

@@alexandraanderson3988 yes she is. If you paid attention SHE said why HE did it and Olivia is not always right.

[@SuperSoldier26]

The best and funniest ADA ever. It was so sad to see him leave during that episode when Rafael killed that baby and Jack McCoy appointed Peter Stone to prosecute him and to give him a light punishment because in the end of it all, Jack McCoy was very sad to see Barba leave

[@kmstorturedpoet]

Bring Barba back please

[@aquarianbeauty80]

She always has an excuse for not settling down. She wants to be single period ☝🏽

[@nadiahassan5307]

Completely on Barba’s side for this one. She has always had a huge blind spot when it came to Stabler and so easily forgave him because he was doing his job. Well, so was Rafael. It continues to remind me why I was so happy when Stabler left and how him coming back has messed up a lot of things.

[@Vinnymanvinny1]

To me the show went downhill after he left. There was something special about their dynamic as partners.

[@CatyBlue1984]

@@Vinnymanvinny1 Same here, even if you don't ship them they had a great chemistry that made the show really good

[@nadiahassan5307]

@@Vinnymanvinny1 Fair enough! I never liked him in general and I thought all the focus on their relationship took away from the episodes. I thought her greatest growth was without him and the best characters came when he was gone. But different strokes for different folks!

[@nadiahassan5307]

@@CatyBlue1984 Not for me, thought it was toxic by the end. But hey different opinions. And the show still lasted another 10 seasons without him so someone did something right.

[@CatyBlue1984]

@@nadiahassan5307 I'm not saying that it was a bad show, I'm just saying that I missed them working together.

[@bethdeesb]

Personally I believe the love between Barba and Liv is just a really great, deep friendship. What I like about them is their ability to communicate to each other how they feel. They really do listen to each other with their hearts. Liv and Elliott definitely love each other but they can't define what that love looks like because they don't communicate well. They don't truly hear each other because neither one of them understands their own feelings much less the other ones. Maybe because they are too much alike they won't allow each other to be vulnerable without feeling defensive.

[@andreaalexander4727]

I agree! I didn’t take what Barba said as romantic. Even the actor himself said Liv and Barba are more of a “brother and sister” type of relationship. Stabler and Benson, definitely romantic. But not Barba and Liv.

[@smudgesaysno524]

Liv and Elliot are toxic

[@c.r.chandler5905]

@@smudgesaysno524 I agree with you. It's almost as if they are codependent with each other

[@bibospice2001]

Did you see the part where he said it

[@TB91178]

Best. Comment. On point.

[@carriew5106]

Firstly both actors give a masterclass here in their performances. There is so much told in their looks, facial expressions as well is the delivery of the lines. Not something that you can normally see in a long running TV show. Secondly this poses a really interesting question about why Liv feels more anger to Rafa than she ever did to Elliot, and what that means in regards to love. I also thought the point Rafa makes about seeing Stabler through different prisms based on their life experiences is fascinating nature Vs nurture example that would make a great basis of an essay. And then there's the fact that I personally think Rafa is the better man for Liv. He is perhaps too closed off and thinks too much with his head rather than his heart, but he would rather sacrifice himself than see those he loves in danger. Elliott is more emotional, running in head first to defend those he loves, but often his actions place those he loves in danger. And that would have been okay before Noah, but now Liv is a mum Noah has to be her first consideration. And Rafa is the better choice. Less passion maybe, but just as much love.

[@Sara-rf5qx]

This is the best comment I have ever read!

[@williammoses6460]

Carrie W, this is well thought out. Thank you. Minor niggle, I think it is a “nurture v nurture” problem. Still plenty of room for a “compare and contrast” essay. Again, thank you for shedding so much light on the dynamics at work.

[@roxanafarjat5795]

It’s true, they’re giving a masterclass; but Raul deserves a special recognition cause in some scenes of the past seasons he was too “theatrical” (cause he grew up in theatre) and sometimes his expressions could seem a little over the top, but now he nails it, I’m crying with him, I can honestly say he is now EQUALLY a stage and a camera actor ♥️

[@claudinefaure9090]

It is amazing that Olivia was able to adopt Noah when Stabler was not working with her. Also, she moved from detective to Captain...and she has some friends now..ok these are both friends and colleagues. But wow ! When Stabler went away they had to hire two detectives/actors to fill the void. And they(writers) created this ADA, who has a Big Brass B,,,Ego !! Instead of the feminine characters as ADA. Olivia is always friend to the ADA. (Casey, D. Haden or Alex etc,,). She's the one who puts an end to the relationship she had with Haden. So her "I miss you too" comes from the heart but she may be afraid of what the future will be for them. .

[@jakelynealcantara]

Noah is growing up, he will soon become an adult, will he disappoint Olivia?

[@sarahpringle4715]

Barba has certainly got better with age

[@SuperSoldier26]

Absolutely my friend

[@gloco620]

Ugh. She gets on my whole nerves. Rafa was right, she's always deflecting, defending, when in fact, yes, you knew Stabler for 23 years but he loved Kathy, yeah, he may have had feelings for Olivia, pretty sure that comes after spending more time with your co-worker than your actual family, especially in the context of their working relationship, so much that when Olivia called, Kathy said, "your work wife." She needs to face her own demons, deal with her own crap before she can ever get involved. With anyone.

[@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313]

you nail it - I happen to be fed up with her character - does she deserve anything that he won't ruin ?

[@claudinefaure9090]

Fin told her once "nobody exspect you to be super woman" - "I do" - she answered She wants to be a superwoman even when it comes about feelings.

[@jazzyjonas6646]

Hes my favorite DA

[@SuperSoldier26]

When she performs these attitudes and acts this way, there's no room for her to grow, move forward, and live a peaceful happy life especially with her son Noah who adores Rafael Barba and sees him as his Uncle Rafa

[@persephoneharrison3439]

I feel stupid! I never thought Barba loved Olivia!!!! Wow! He knows how to handle her personality.

[@jessicahulin7052]

You can sense it.. Just like with Amanda and Carisi

[@SuperSoldier26]

D**n right

[@Kingbossdon]

Love Barba he was my favorite character on the show definitely in my top 10

[@lulugirlgo483]

Why does everyone assume she forgave Elliot? The way I see it, she has not. She has partnered up with him a few times since he came back, but the intent was never to get into a relationship with him so soon. She fends off all his advances, making excuses not to get too close to him. I was never in denial regarding their feelings for each other over the years. He loved her. She loved him. He broke her. Entered Barba, and for the first time I could see her building a life with someone again. He is just sooooo good for her.

[@ABirdOnTheMoon]

It’s not about forgiveness when she loves him enough to not mention anything .. is she angry? Upset? Doesn’t want to see him? Hurt? All no .. so she has already forgave him. I don’t think she ever even was that angry at him .. she loved him a lot to idolize him .. to even put him first to herself to realize he didn’t love her enough .. he didn’t care for her feelings .. he wasn’t the bigger person nor even wrote her something in a shy attempt to reduce her pain .. nothing. He left her without a word .. and he did that multiple times before while working together .. doing his mind and sometimes putting her in danger .. stabler is selfish .. she is stupid .. she is not over him and he will burn her. He is her obstacle/weakness and he will make her fail .. choose against her best judgment. He is the challenge she need to overcome

[@claudinefaure4897]

@@ABirdOnTheMoon yes !

[@venusmoodie4874]

I agree she hasn't forgiven him and I really wanna see her let that out cause that's part of all the feelings she's holding in. I'm really so torn between Barber and Stabler I mean for as long as I knew SVU was going on I've been pulling for Bensler but then Barber came and I didn't even realized I liked them until he was leaving. When Liz finally let's the feelings out though has the potential to be epic for her and Stabler

[@fizzybubbles715]

My hope for Season 24 is that she finally puts her foot down with Stabler, calls him out & puts him in his place.

[@claudinefaure9090]

@@fizzybubbles715 season 24 will deal with her traumas. Bringing in the ghosts from the past. Of course, William Lewis. Everybody knows about him except Elliott. Barba, Amanda and to some extend Carisi. Barba , he walked away. Amanda, unelegantly fired Carisi,,, We have not yet met the others.

[@deborahtrotter6656]

At least his feelings are straightforward not changing every 20 months, he says exactly what he thinks. This is why I think this is a better fit than the stabler storyline I have utmost respect for Christopher meloni, but the stable storyline does not work for me.

[@MARIAANDRADE-gf6wz]

02:11 OMG! He said! This is love

[@SuperSoldier26]

Absolutely and he's speaking his mind, telling her straight, and giving her the business

[@JESSICÃO-l2j]

What episode is this?

[@user-ez7ew1qv1g]

@@JESSICÃO-l2jdid you know which episode is this?😢

[@EthalaRide]

Can we give a round of applause to the *_Editor(s)_* who masterfully wove this performance together *_perfectly._* the shots, the cuts, the *_SECLECTION OF TAKES!_* The actors are wonderful, and ar rightfully so recieving praise for this scene, but a scene like this could have been killed in the edit, but it was masterfully paced out. You can tell Esparza did the scene with differing throughlines, as did Hargitay, and the editors did wonderfully weaving those performances together for a really wonderful scene about two characters having a painfully human heart to heart.

[@JESSICÃO-l2j]

What episode is this?

[@raquelsierra6646]

This scene was so well performed, i could feel everything they were feeling. The acting, the music etc was just perfect and for me when she calls him Rafa when he's leaving and we get to see his face is epic. I want Barba back, there is no other character able to tell Liv things she might dont like

[@williethomas5116]

The thing is because they respected each other they listened, learned and moved when needed out of respect. Her relationship with Elliott was him talking down to her. Him crossing the line and her covering an making excuses for him. You never saw him listen and not be violent.

[@terripitnick3124]

@@williethomas5116 100%. I’m disappointed they even brought him back. And it seems his show is being propped up by SVU considering the number of crossovers. Stabler ghosted her for 10 years and it’s all good 👎

[@jenniferhiemstra5228]

@@williethomas5116 THAT. Thank you.

[@trivonnereid8877]

he's leaving not his leaving

[@raquelsierra6646]

@@trivonnereid8877 Sorry for my mistake. I'm not English native speaker but at least I try

[@biancamcnair1049]

I still don’t believe her and Elliot are right for each other. Their relationship was borderline obsessive. He got in between most of her relationships and she went so far as to try and have a guy killed for him. Olivia definitely needs Barba in her life to call her out on this behavior.

[@NicoleUntch]

Agreed! He’s way too toxic for her and she’s lost so many good relationships holding onto hope for him.

[@alexandraanderson3988]

I agree she should get stable with someone in due time but barba just basically came back and she's part right he has no right to dictate what kind of relationship her and stabler. Like I hate when people think to seem to know someone based on their file and not getting to know them to show their true colors lol plus her & stabler known each other longer and he's basically always had her back not a stabler fan like that but I doubt stabler would ever stick up for Wheatley like the way barba did he did practically kinda of ruin his changes

[@alexandraanderson3988]

However I still think she's overacting with this bitterness of holding a grudge on him Lol this was one character trait I did not know she had lol like literally nobody could convince her to make amends with barba for her own good not even her therapist I was like damm this is a whole new side of her I've never really seen before since she's alway s been so forgiving in the past literally learned to forgive and forget like burton but I'm sure she didn't forget

[@biancamcnair1049]

@@alexandraanderson3988 I’ve noticed her less desirable traits have been more prominent since Barba left. Like when she implied to Amanda that she’d had an abortion before and regretted it and then pretended like that’s not what she meant. I get why she’s still angry with him but she needs to work through it because she’s a better person with his friendship.

[@claudinefaure9090]

@@alexandraanderson3988 and Benson dictating Barba " not to take this case ?" Because what ? Stabler is back in to her life and there's no room for anybody else. Stabler can ruin their friendship and he, Barba, has to admit, say yes and thank you ? Just like nothing happened during the 6/8 past years. Stabler comes back and picks up his things. °\°

[@anniebunny722]

As someone who loves both Barba and Elliot. This scene was heartbreaking. Cause Barba was calling Liv out on her unresolved feelings for Elliot and that he relates to her in loving someone unconditionally (from Barba’s perspective platonically or romantically) was something I wasn’t expecting after seeing the, “more anger towards me than Stabler,” line from the promo. He just wants her to figure it out with Elliot, but is there for her when she’s ready. I don’t want Barba out of her life. They both had a great working relationship and a deep friendship. I hope that since Warren Leight (showrunner) is leaving, they won’t forget about Liv and Barba’s relationship.

[@CindieLefebvre]

X2

[@claudinefaure9090]

But non! I don't want Barba to be the whitness of Olivia and Stabler happy life. First, because she will never see Barba again. Second, she can't treat him like an underdog ,,, If she already miss him maybe it's because she can't see any future with Stabler. And he walks away. He gives her time to realize how she feels. But Benson is in love since minute one and she will wait for Stabler till the end.

[@SuperSoldier26]

I agree @Annie Burke

[@rosehollis9639]

Annie burke. Liv may forgive Barba someday but that was the most personal betrayal as you can get yes they were very close but I think she knew that he took the Wheatley as a hit as hit against stabler and she was not forgiving him for that at all because he knew what stabler means to her

[@SuperSoldier26]

I know right?

[@raginggamer7207]

Olivia has always bugged me. She is never wrong. No one ever tells her to shut up. She's never questioned. Maybe this is the start of a new Olvia. One who actually makes mistakes that she recognizes.

[@svenheimes2494]

In the old days, she was wrong many times, got into trouble for that, admitted mistakes...that made her more 'human'. Casey would be a great choice for a comeback.

[@diggs1989]

@@svenheimes2494 agreed, I don’t know what Olivia they’re talking about

[@madgemackles4337]

Always? have you just started watching?

[@SuperSoldier26]

@Raging Gamer Yeah maybe

[@SuperSoldier26]

Damn right @Raging Gamer

[@cataciudad]

Barba is right tbh

[@SuperSoldier26]

Definitely

[@smileyfan16]

I don’t want a love triangle between Liv, Elliot and Barba. I think it was good for other people to call Liv out on her feelings for Elliot. It’s becoming apparent to everyone like Rollins and Barba what she feels for Elliot, but can’t see. Olivia is in denial. She needs to talk to Elliot about her feelings. Like her shrink said find out if there’s more or move on.

[@mappingoutthesky]

Rafa, honey, you deserve better. You deserves somebody who loves YOU unconditionally... I could be that person lol

[@007private]

i mean can i just have him on the weekends ??!! lol ughh i so love him !!

[@queenheart6167]

Calm down, girls. Line up. I'm the first here.

[@timbuyoti1198]

Rafa truly deserves someone great, Liv is too indecisive, she really doesn't know what she feels😬 hope she gets it together. And if she doesn't choose Barba at least let him have someone, all we've seen with Barba is heartache after heartbreak from Lauren to Yelina to Liv

[@007private]

@@timbuyoti1198 i mean he can have me 🤣🤣🤣but yes i dont think liv really wants a relationship . I think she only wanted a child and is happy with that .

[@queenheart6167]

@@007private 😂😂

[@SuperSoldier26]

1:44-2:24 Barba's like: "uh-uh. I'm not gonna sit here and be insulted by you. I'm gone. Goodbye."

[@SuperSoldier26]

After 10 years Stabler doesn't call, he doesn't write, doesn't even send a postcard nor text message her and yet she's able to forgive Elliot for all that and not Barba? What a fool

[@jennyulloa9058]

I love barba he is speaking truths and that’s why Olivia can’t stay mad at him because he’s stating facts and telling it to her face. They need to fix this show asap.

[@allieblake477]

“Rafa” 😭😭😭😭😭

[@claudinefaure9090]

She only has to get used to the fact that Barba is not with her any more. She wants Stabler, she will have Stabler.

[@alexa-tu5ci]

@@claudinefaure9090 you wish

[@SuperSoldier26]

2:18-2:52 Rafael Barba responding to her saying "what" instead of "yes" means that he's pissed. Now she just lost another friend who was deeply in love with her

[@shasta6875]

Id LOVE to see Liv realize she fell in love with Rafa. I think Elliot needs a lot of mental help and he doesn't believe in that stuff so he will never change. Rafa clearly loves Liv and has fought for and supported Noah, too while Elliot disappeared and ran overseas. Elliot chose his marriage over live and rightly so, but now Liv needs to choose herself, meaning someone who loves her unconditionally, and that's Barba❤

[@SuperSoldier26]

Right on

[@EthalaRide]

here here

[@The_Moderates_Apprentice]

It wasn't just about justice for Elliot's wife. But also for Olivia's friend. People tend to forget that Olivia and Kathy had a friendship as well. Even more so, closure for his kids. This scene is all about the Elliot, Olivia, Barba triangle, and I really wish the writers had given this perspective as well in this exchange.

[@tammylewis2408]

Benson also delivered Eli when she and Kathy were on their way to Kathy's doctor when they were hit broadside by a drunken driver and Kathy went into labor. So I think there is an emotional connection Benson has with Stabler different from Barba.

[@AladeenMusic]

@@tammylewis2408 people often forget Stabler was not only best friends with benson but like FAMILY not only to him but his whole family, Kathy fully trusted Olivia just as much as she did for her husband , people love to attack him for his mistakes and personal issues forgetting benson has had her share of issues herself, they both had different issues to deal with in their lives, Eliot is growing much more with organized crime and so much better than before, Liv grew into a captain now, they needed to be separated but honestly with all that said. I prefer they remain good friends I don’t think a couple should be end game heck I think Liv needs both barba and stabler in her life as good friends

[@SuperSoldier26]

@@AladeenMusic possibly

[@aliltired5151]

OMGGG was this a love confession???!!! And yesssss Barba call her out! I love Liv but she has filters on when it comes to Elliot. She says “I’ve known him for 23 years” but that’s not true. You’ve known him for 12-13 years and he’s abandon you for the other 10-11 years. People change. While he was a POS those years he was your partner, you knew that man. You don’t know this one. I get the whole appeal to be wanting Bensler together but I honestly think they are toxic for each other due to his “holier than thou” attitude and need to control aspects of her life. And she looses any power and confidence she has to please him. It’s almost like watching her revert back to the season 1 Olivia. They’ve missed their mark, and she’s honestly been through too much to forgive him (even though she’s written as if she already has). Also, can you honestly believe that Stabler’s kids will accept her? I’m sure they’ve heard Kathy bad mouth Liv in arguments with Elliot since it seems like Kathy blamed her marriage problems on Liv. So I don’t think the kids will respect her. Besides Fin, Barba is the only man that has consistently been there for Liv without conditions. He knows almost everything about her and still accepts and loves her. He is the most stable and perfect match for her at this point in her life. I may be biased because I’ve been routing for them since he stepped on the screen. I feel like if she doesn’t end up with him, then they should honestly leave her single.

[@WarmasterJoshmaul]

I think Stabler's kids would accept her. Kathleen particularly, they seemed to get on reasonably well. His popularity aside, I'm fairly sure something may happen that will end up getting him killed, and who would they have left? Grandma Bernie? She has her own problems (and this was before getting kidnapped by Wheatley, who is probably not dead at all, evidence to the contrary aside). Olivia is probably the most stable person they know. More so even than their own father, at this point.

[@rebeccagoodnight96]

Kathy never hate Olivia and the kids love Olivia. So what tv show you watch

[@rebeccagoodnight96]

Go rewatch all the episodes again bc kathy alway like Olivia especially after Olivia helped delivered Kathy baby

[@SuperSoldier26]

I love that Rafael confessed his love for her and that he called her out. She deserved it

[@SuperSoldier26]

@@rebeccagoodnight96 that’s right

[@katherinecastro2000]

Please don''t make a love triangle Barba don't deserve this ;-;

[@annmariedash5782]

When Liv got run off the road by Whitley’s men she was talking to Stabler on the phone.He never once called her to find out how she was. His excuse was that he was undercover. Is that really love. Why would she still care for someone who never once asked about her welfare for ten years. I don’t see Stabler being the end game for her. He and his family have too many issues from his mother to all his children. Why would Liv want to bring Noah in that circle. I think she should move on without him. It would be better for her and Noah.

[@alexandraanderson3988]

I mean he still end up finding her in the ambulance 😊 but Yeah he has to much issues and problems of their own to even ask about her own

[@annmariedash5782]

@@alexandraanderson3988 She imagined the ambulance attendant was him. He was nowhere around.

[@M.Hiro79]

I completely agree

[@alexandraanderson3988]

@@annmariedash5782 Ohhhh😮 Lol that had me fooled on screen I thought it was him dammm🤦🏾‍♀️😄

[@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313]

@@annmariedash5782 yes, you're right - She's obsessed with him - but there is some closure with Barba - I'm not sure he will be there to help her if she is in troubles because she let Stabler in to her life - she is regressing and nobody can help.

[@dianeregus4474]

Bring back Dana Lewis please. She needs a redemption arc.

[@alexandraanderson3988]

I would love tha but she's probably still in jail Unfortunately for her crime

[@KenofLyoko4]

@@alexandraanderson3988 that entire plot line of her murdering someone was pure character assassination.

[@blakecaylor418]

@@KenofLyoko4 agreed

[@diggs1989]

No redemption for that

[@angelicone181]

She doesn't need a redemption arc, theres no redemption for cold blooded murder.

[@Malasera4570]

I don't like Stabler for Olivia. I don't know if anyone remembers when Nick Amaro left, Olivia said that she grew more in the short time that Nick was her partner than in the whole, I don't know how many years, with Stabler. He always had her back, sure but that's what partners do. Then there was Peter Stone who put his career in jeopardy for Olivia because he developed feelings for her then he had to leave. At this point, anyone is better than Stabler. I would have preferred Peter but Barba works too.

[@anastasia581]

Ever since I’ve been watching these new episodes of svu and organized crime I’ve been thinking about what you just said about what she said to amaro, I just watched short clips to refresh my memory with her and tucker. I think they were the most pure and truly in love, he treated her so well too. As far as barba and her, I think they really love eachother but personally don’t see it as romantic

[@SuperSoldier26]

You'd think that Olivia would continue to move on after becoming senior detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and now captain after all these years, but ever since Stabler came back to New York Olivia's not trying to move on, she's trying to pick up what was left behind

[@Rheinmeister09]

I don’t know how people continue to look at their relationship as just friends. Particularly after he says that he knows what it is to love someone unconditionally. I can’t imagine that they won’t bring him back to try and resolve this which sets up a triangle with Stabler. Good to make Stabler work for it.

[@rinraiden]

No... just no. Stabler and Benson are meant to be together. I like Barba... but no.

[@alzandronehendricks3348]

Lol stabler has a whole family and keeps hurting olivia for years even though they had their thing and had each others back she deserves better

[@psychopat4402]

@@rinraiden no just no. After being partners for 23 years they’re practically brother and sister…….at that point it’s full blown friend zone.

[@anastasia581]

Still don’t see barba and her like that, unconditional love applies to friendships as well, especially one as deep as theirs. I really loved her and tucker together, just watched a few clips to refresh my memory, wish she found someone like that again but allowed herself to happy. Tucker treated her and her son like 👑 and he was consistent. Too bad it didn’t last and he passed away

[@StudioGhibliFan494]

Rafael Barba is wasting his time with Benson, because he deserves MORE than that. Stabler walks out on Benson without a word & avoids her for years & she LOVES him & would marry him & all the rest of it. I LOVE that Barba is calling her out on her hypocrisy. How she loves Stabler but she despises Barba. She probably still loves that loser, who told her son Noah to lie & tell people that Benson abused him.

[@margaretarce31]

Show runners will put her with Elliott to please over romantic fans. It will be forced. The true chemistry is between Benson and Barba. Actors either have it or they don't. They certainly do.

[@angiesubero9755]

Thank you!!!

[@lifewithlaysia.]

Mariska doesn’t want her character to be with barba.

[@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313]

@@lifewithlaysia. she wants to be with Stabler/Meloni ???? Her Younger man should find someone better. -

[@lifewithlaysia.]

@@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313 honestly idc for stabled and benson but yea mariska says she rooting for them she couldn't see her character with anyone else .

[@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313]

@@lifewithlaysia. - it's bad news ! their chemistry's gone . But yes she said she's full of gratitude for the actor. Barba would be such a better match, ,

[@elviavargas834]

Idk call me crazy but I think Elliot and Benson are toxic....and Benson needs stability with Noa too. I ship Barba and Benson 🤷‍♀️

[@MARIAANDRADE-gf6wz]

I agree

[@jenniferhiemstra5228]

I do as well…maybe not with any kind of fervency, but of all the guys I could see her with, it’s Rafa. I cannot for the life of me understand why people are not only shipping BenStabler, but so gung-ho about it, it’s WAY too much sameness, and then add the toxicity and baggage they both have?? There’s no way in hell they’d last IRL 🙄 You’re not the only one who thinks her and Elliot would be the worst pairing…no way, no how.

[@claudinefaure9090]

@@jenniferhiemstra5228 hello. I'm with you about the toxicity. They are really good as partners even tho they are not perfect. Each one his character/temper. But,,, Elliott wants his wife-partner to agree with him, always, when Barba and Benson have built their relationship on squabbling and fighting, I mean fighting like friends. But,,, Barba's always been there for Liv. Maybe things are changing because she 's still holding on him. And she only has to grab on emptiness because Barba is not her underdog.

[@SuperSoldier26]

0:37- 2:53 Her holding on to this is terrible. She needs to let it go and move on FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!! Rafael is right that’s what she does and what she keeps on doing. I like how Rafael Barba gives Olivia the business and told her straight and now, it seems Olivia just lost the one person who was deeply in love with her

[@taylorraynor8170]

I was shooketh… I repeatedly said to my empty house “barba loves liv… he.loves.her!!!!! Idk what to do with that… wtf

[@claireh8560]

Finally!!! We need more moments like this. So intense. It reminds me of the best seasons. I miss the golden age of SVU. Barson endgame all the way. EO was so 10 seasons ago. Raul and Mariska are the best. Their characters too. We need more scenes like this. I miss Barba on the show. I miss those Barson moments. (Btw, Liv says 23 years... Not really. Did she forget the 10 years Stabler was gone?)

[@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313]

she met Barba during these years. And she said 'Thank you' to Amaro because he helped her to grow when she was devastated. she didn't have to be emotionally involved with her partner to trust him -

[@SuperSoldier26]

1:29-1:36 23 years??!! WHAT THE F***??!! IS SHE SERIOUS??!! HER MATH IS WAY OFF!!!! Minus the 10 years he's been gone with no phone call or reaching out to her which makes it 13 years. DEGOUTANT

[@queenheart6167]

I'm absolutely in love with Barson, but more like an unconditional friendship (I really like Barisi). Rafael and Olivia converse in a very different way than the conversations Liv has with Elliot. I also understand the hurt she feels because Rafael is one of the few people Olivia trusts and loves. Maybe that's why she forgave her ex so easily. She really didn't care about him. With Elliot it was because they have something unfinished that needs to come to an end, no matter what. But with Rafael it's different. Surely he is her best friend. In fact, Rafael is much friendlier than Olivia herself, because she didn't trust him and the reasons why he defended Wheatley. I'm so glad he didn't ask for any forgiveness, that he upheld his decision and even said what she needed to hear. from now on it's Olivia who has to go after him, not the other way around. WOW!!! This is my Rafael Barba. He deserves better than an indecisive Olivia.

[@loveolicity4542]

In terms of a romantic relationship, Benson and Stabler have never crossed the line.. So he's not an ex... Ex partner in the workplace, you're right...

[@queenheart6167]

@@loveolicity4542 the ex I'm referring to is the one from the previous episode, the one who dated her when Olivia was just 16.

[@loveolicity4542]

@@queenheart6167 ooooo…. Sorry. Didn’t realize. You didn’t mention him in your initial reply

[@queenheart6167]

@@loveolicity4542 I didn't mention it because I don't remember the guy's name.😁

[@ellaisplotting]

I adore Liv and Barba's relationship, but 100% Barisi all the way. Rollins is such a beard.

[@jonna1885]

Is Barba trying to tell Olivia that he loves her?

[@SuperSoldier26]

Yes

[@charmycharmed783]

Barba sucks so bad. Just bring back Alex.

[@alexa-tu5ci]

You suck so bad just like Elliot stabler

[@jannlewandowski5540]

It seems like they're keeping us hanging by the triangle of Olivia, Barba, & Stabler.

[@claudinefaureclaudinefaure2313]

Josh, Liza, Charles = triangle on Younger // Olivia, Barba, Stabler on SVU. Many triangles, let's try some squares.

[@midimaggie]

honestly barba is probably the better choice for olivia (saying this as an eo fan) but the heart wants what it wants

[@gaila.9852]

There is no romantic energy between them.

[@midimaggie]

@@gaila.9852 k

[@timbuyoti1198]

@@gaila.9852 Hrm🤔 you talking about the actors? Because those characters have serious chemistry

[@gaila.9852]

@@timbuyoti1198 I am talking about the characters. They seem to be friends. That is all, and that is fine.

[@timbuyoti1198]

@@gaila.9852 Hrm🤔 I guess people do see things in different prisms😂😂 lol but I agree, their friendship (is/was) so pure I think it's because of how good they are as friends that people like me want to see more😅😅. I don't care if it's there or not I'll be content to see their friendship fixed🥺 friends like that are hard to find

[@rachelfigueroa3681]

She’s my favorite. Even named my baby after her character but Rafa told no lies here !!!! She’s still so loyal to L even when he completely ghosted her !!!!

[@adriennefein2284]

Our hearts are broken & Rafa NEEDS to comeback

[@claudinefaure9090]

And meet the other people in the squad. Doesn't need to meet Olivia again since they don't have anything else to say.

[@SamanthaTheAstrologer]

There is so much in this scene. Elliot is Olivia's blind spot. She'll forgive him for any and everything because she loves him unconditionally. And he'd do the same for her. They feel that deeply about each other. But not being able to hold someone accountable for how their actions isn't a sign of a healthy relationship. Olivia's never held Elliot accountable for leaving her the way he did. Elliot and Olivia can't even tell each other how they feel about each other because they don't communicate well. Barba and Olivia were always able to tell each other the truth from day 1. I have no dog in the fight with E + O or B + O although I think B + O have a brother-sister relationship and the actors confirmed it. The point is, IMO Barba and Olivia have a healthier relationship than Olivia's relationship with Stabler but Olivia feels deeper for Stabler than for any potential love interest she has.

[@juliette7776]

But Elliott did apologized at the hospital

[@moneylover318]

Even Amanda and Carisi can call each other together after the behavior but in the end there's better people than Olivia fans Elliott

[@kathykozlak7800]

I love Raul's Barba,!!! Great actor great singer. Hope to see more of him!! Give him the money!!!

[@SuperSoldier26]

Yeah

[@karenleonard8679]

I love Barba

[@alby270496]

Liv still thinks that Barba was aggressive at the Wheaton trial, but she has forgotten how ferocious he can be

[@podsmpsg1]

Barba was completely right. She needed to hear those things. It's time for her to confront her feelings. Elliot abandoned her for 10 years, no call or letter. Barba was there for her.

[@charmycharmed783]

Can we have Alex Cabot back now?

[@liviaalves5827]

I would really like Alex back

[@sharonwestberry325]

How she would explode on stabler

[@queenheart6167]

Not.

[@tori2dles]

With Dr. Huang & Melinda Warner. ☺️

[@sharonwestberry325]

@@tori2dles huang would let Olivia know just wat Barba did why can't she forgive Barba for 1 mistake when she forgave Elliot for leaving without a word for 10 yrd after Barba was there for her in her roughest times

[@hoanglong9629]

I felt his pain when he said its alright 😭 How can she not realise this

[@alejandroleyva3664]

Rafa is the man Liv deserves but not the man she wants

[@jackieoesterman6688]

Oh please, stop the little dances around the main issue here...let them get together and put the feelings out there. They are so perfect for each other.

[@ricoleneheymans2903]

Why cant she just love him back! he is so much better for her way healthier. The frustration is killing me

[@SuperSoldier26]

I know and Me too

[@miss.franca]

God I love these two! I hope the show keeps bringing him back!!!

[@SuperSoldier26]

Me too my friend, me too