Dick Wolf has become a household name in the television industry, known for creating an expansive universe filled with gripping dramas and memorable characters. His journey began as a writer on “Hill Street Blues” in 1985, but he truly rose to prominence with the launch of “Law & Order” in 1990. This groundbreaking series not only set the standard for procedural dramas but also paved the way for numerous spin-offs, including “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” which debuted in 1999.
Wolf’s influence didn’t stop in New York; he expanded his storytelling to Chicago with “Chicago Fire” in 2012, which later spawned successful series like “Chicago P.D.,” “Chicago Med,” and “Chicago Justice.” Just when audiences thought he had exhausted his creative potential, Wolf introduced the FBI universe, comprising “FBI,” “FBI: Most Wanted,” and “FBI: International.”
What makes Wolf’s universe particularly fascinating is the way characters and actors frequently crossover between different series. Fans have noticed familiar faces popping up in multiple roles, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories. Here, we delve into some of the most notable crossovers and the actors who have thrived within Wolf’s expansive television landscape.
Juliana Aiden Martinez
Martinez made her mark as Detective Kate Silva on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” during its 26th season, which aired from 2024 to 2025. After her departure, it was announced that she would join the cast of “FBI” as a series regular for its upcoming eighth season, set to premiere in October 2025. While details about her new character remain under wraps, fans are eager to see how she will fit into the FBI universe.
Jesse Lee Soffer
Soffer is best known for his role as Detective Jay Halstead on “Chicago P.D.” from 2014 to 2022. His character frequently crossed over to “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago Med.” In June 2024, it was confirmed that Soffer would transition to the FBI universe, taking on the lead role of Supervisory Special Agent Wes Mitchell in “FBI: International.” His journey, however, was short-lived, as the series was canceled after one season.
Charlotte Sullivan
Sullivan entered the Wolf universe as nurse Anna Turner on “Chicago Fire” during its fifth season. She later portrayed an undercover cop in “Law & Order: Organized Crime.” In 2024, she reunited with her “Rookie Blue” co-star Missy Peregrym in a cameo on “FBI,” where she played Special Agent Jessica Blake for several episodes.
Christopher Meloni
Meloni’s portrayal of Detective Elliott Stabler on “Law & Order: SVU” spanned 12 seasons, and he returned to the franchise as the lead in “Law & Order: Organized Crime” starting in 2021. His complex relationship with former partner Olivia Benson (played by Mariska Hargitay) has become a focal point of the new series, captivating audiences with their dynamic.
Edwin Hodge
Hodge played firefighter Rick Newhouse on “Chicago Fire” before transitioning to the FBI universe in 2022. He has since portrayed Special Agent Ray Cannon on “FBI: Most Wanted,” contributing to the show until its conclusion in May 2025.
Ice-T
Ice-T’s journey in the Wolf universe began with a role in the short-lived series “Players.” He later joined “Law & Order: SVU” as Detective Odafin “Fin” Tutuola in its second season. Over the years, he has become a staple of the series, earning a promotion to sergeant in season 20.
Shantel VanSanten
VanSanten joined “FBI” in its fourth season as Special Agent Nina Chase. Her role expanded in the fifth season, and she made crossover appearances in both “FBI: International” and “FBI: Most Wanted.” She officially became a part of “FBI: Most Wanted” in February 2024, remaining with the series until its end.
Mariska Hargitay
Hargitay has portrayed Detective Olivia Benson since 1999, making her one of the most recognizable characters in the Wolf universe. Benson has appeared in multiple crossover events, including “Law & Order: Organized Crime” and various episodes of “Chicago P.D.”
Tracy Spiridakos
Spiridakos joined “Chicago P.D.” in 2017 as Detective Hailey Upton. She made a brief appearance in an “FBI” episode in 2020, showcasing the interconnected nature of Wolf’s storytelling. Like her co-stars, Spiridakos has also participated in crossovers within the One Chicago franchise.
Jon Seda
Seda’s character, Antonio Dawson, was a detective in the Intelligence Unit on “Chicago P.D.” from 2014 to 2019. He also starred in the short-lived series “Chicago Justice,” further establishing his presence in the Wolf universe.
Philip Winchester
Winchester’s character, Peter Stone, was introduced in “Chicago P.D.” and became a significant figure in “Chicago Justice.” He also reprised his role in “Law & Order: SVU,” appearing in numerous episodes.
Dann Florek
Florek’s portrayal of Captain Donald Cragen began in “Law & Order” and continued in “SVU.” His character made several appearances after his initial exit, demonstrating the lasting impact of his role in the franchise.
Tamara Tunie
Tunie’s most notable role in the Wolf universe is Dr. Melinda Warner on “Law & Order: SVU.” She has appeared in various other Wolf productions, further solidifying her status as a familiar face in the franchise.
Jeremy Sisto
Sisto started as Detective Cyrus Lupo on “Law & Order” before transitioning to “FBI” as Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jubal Valentine. His journey reflects the fluidity of character roles in Wolf’s interconnected universe.
Dylan McDermott
McDermott played the villain Richard Wheatley in “Law & Order: Organized Crime” before taking on the role of Supervisory Special Agent Remy Scott in “FBI: Most Wanted,” showcasing his versatility within the Wolf universe.
Alana De La Garza
De La Garza is remembered for her role as ADA Connie Rubirosa on “Law & Order.” She has since transitioned to “FBI,” where she plays Special Agent in Charge Isobel Castille, further bridging the gap between the two franchises.
S. Epatha Merkerson
Merkerson portrayed Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on “Law & Order” for 17 seasons before joining “Chicago Med” as Sharon Goodwin, becoming a vital part of the One Chicago family.
Stephanie March
March’s character, ADA Alexandra Cabot, became a fan favorite on “Law & Order: SVU.” She also starred in “Conviction,” further intertwining her story with Wolf’s universe.
Chris Noth
Noth’s portrayal of Detective Mike Logan was pivotal in both “Law & Order” and its spin-off “Criminal Intent,” showcasing the longevity of characters within Wolf’s expansive storytelling.
Josh Pais
Pais played Assistant Medical Examiner Borak on “Law & Order” before transitioning to “SVU,” where he took on multiple roles, demonstrating the versatility of characters in the Wolf universe.
Julianne Nicholson
Nicholson’s journey began with “Conviction” before she became part of “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” showcasing the interconnected nature of Wolf’s storytelling.
James McCaffrey
McCaffrey’s work began with “Swift Justice” and continued in “New York Undercover,” before returning to the Wolf universe with multiple roles in “Law & Order: SVU” and “Criminal Intent.”
Dick Wolf’s television universe is a testament to the power of storytelling, characterized by its dynamic characters and intricate connections. As fans continue to engage with these beloved series, the legacy of Wolf’s creations will undoubtedly endure, captivating audiences for years to come.