Chris Meloni and Mariska Hargitay, two beloved actors from the hit crime drama series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" (SVU), have hinted at a potential romance between their characters in the upcoming season. Fans of the show have long been hoping for a romantic storyline between Meloni's Elliot Stabler and Hargitay's Olivia Benson, commonly referred to by fans as "Bensler." Now, it seems that their wishes may finally come true.

Meloni and Hargitay, who have been part of the SVU cast for many years, recently teased the possibility of a romantic connection between Stabler and Benson. During a virtual event, Meloni playfully commented on a scene they had filmed together, saying, "I think that scene speaks volumes – I don’t know what it says, but it speaks volumes.

" This comment left fans buzzing with excitement and speculation about what might happen between the two characters.

Adding fuel to the fire, Hargitay also expressed her enthusiasm for the long-awaited development. She mentioned that there is an "undeniable, implicit, trusting, committed love" between Stabler and Benson that viewers have witnessed grow over the years. However, she also emphasized the importance of taking things slowly and allowing the relationship to evolve naturally, stating, "I think [the writers] just want to keep investigating this relationship, really slowly and carefully, as we should.

"

The potential romance between Stabler and Benson has been a subject of speculation among fans since Meloni's departure from the series in 2011. Their characters shared a deep bond during their time working together, and the on-screen chemistry between the actors only fueled the hopes of fans. With Meloni's return to the SVU universe in the spin-off series titled "Law & Order: Organized Crime," the possibility of a romantic storyline between Stabler and Benson has become even more anticipated.

While the exact nature and progression of the relationship remains uncertain, the actors' teasing comments have certainly stirred excitement among fans.

The potential of a "Bensler" romance offers a new layer of depth and complexity to the characters' dynamic, and viewers are eager to see how it will be explored in the upcoming season.

As the new season of SVU approaches, fans can look forward to the possibility of their long-held hopes coming to fruition. The talented duo of Chris Meloni and Mariska Hargitay has left a lasting impression on audiences, and the potential for a romantic storyline between their characters has only deepened their connection. Whether or not the "Bensler" romance becomes a reality, viewers can expect another intriguing season filled with compelling storytelling and gripping performances from the SVU cast.