Law & Order: SVU is introducing a new character, Gwen Sharpe, played Smith-Cameron, who will make her debut during the Season 28 premiere on October 8.

Gwen was initially conceived as someone who would cross paths with Benson while a jury was being seated, but showrunner Michele Fazekas saw an opportunity to give Benson something she doesn't often have: a peer. For related coverage, explore our detailed analysis on Technology and Digital Systems.

Creating a New Dynamic

Fazekas explains that the problem with Benson is that she's the boss, so at a certain point you can't go to your subordinates and talk about how disillusioned you are. Gwen, on the other hand, will serve as a sounding board for Benson, bringing a different kind of experience and perspective to the table.

The two-time Emmy nominee is best known for her turn as Gerri Kellman on HBO's Succession, which ran for four seasons between 2018 and 2023. While it's still being determined how much we'll see of Gwen in Season 28, Fazekas expects her to appear 'at least three times, if not more'.

The addition of Gwen Sharpe marks a new era for Olivia Benson, who has been doing this for a long time but could use someone with a different perspective. With J. Smith-Cameron on board, fans can expect a fresh dynamic to unfold in the world of Law & Order: SVU.

Read More: Jill Hennessy: A Legacy on Law & Order and Crossing Jordan

More of J. Smith-Cameron

The two-time Emmy nominee is best known for her turn as Gerri Kellman on the HBO drama "Succession," which ran for four seasons between 2018 and 2023.

Additional TV credits include "Elsbeth," "Hacks," "Murdaugh: A Death in the Family," "Rectify," and "Waco: The Aftermath." She'll next be seen in the recently ordered FX drama "Seven Sisters," opposite Elizabeth Olsen and Cristin Milioti.

"Law & Order: SVU" is giving Olivia Benson someone new to lean on in Season 28.

"Succession" alum J. Smith-Cameron will recur on the long-running procedural as Gwen Sharpe, a jury consultant who will make her debut during the Thursday, October 8 premiere (NBC, 9/8c), TVLine has learned.

Gwen was initially conceived as someone who would simply cross paths with Benson while a jury was being seated and offer her a bit of advice. But showrunner Michele Fazekas tells TVLine that she soon saw an opportunity to give Mariska Hargitay's character something she doesn't often have: a peer.