Rest easy, Law & Order SVU fans.
Despite the rampant Internet rumors that Jennifer Love Hewitt was a strong contender to assume the role of SVU's new female lead for the 13th season, Deadline.com reports Hewitt is no longer in contention for the part.
VIDEO: More summer TV casting news and previews
Hewitt, 32, was said to have been strongly considered to appear as a semi-replacement for Mariska Hargitay, 47, when she scales back her role on the series in the back half of season 13.
While Hewitt may not be top of mind, Deadline reports SVU producers are actively searching for an actor to fill Christopher Meloni's shoes, and are considering adding a second female detective to team up with Hargitay's Det. Olivia Benson.
Despite the recent casting shakeups, there is one SVU star anxious to get back to work when the series resumes production in July.
"I've just locked in my new SVU deal," Ice-T, who appears as Det. Fin Tutuola, tweeted Friday. "So I'll officially be back for the next 2 years at least. DONE."
Tell Us: Who would you like to see join the SVU cast?
By Allison Corneau for Us Weekly. For more Channel Surfing, click here.
