Updated

Updated · ESPN · Sep 17

Jalen Brunson Guest Stars on 'Law & Order: SVU' Episode 5 as NBC Expands His Fall TV Run

Updated

Updated · ESPN · Sep 17

Jalen Brunson Guest Stars on 'Law & Order: SVU' Episode 5 as NBC Expands His Fall TV Run

Q: How did a childhood pregame ritual turn an NBA champion into the latest unexpected face on Law & Order: SVU?

A childhood habit of watching “Law & Order: SVU” with his father helped turn Jalen Brunson from a longtime fan into a guest star on the show. Brunson has said the series was a staple in his house growing up, with his father, Rick Brunson, watching it so often that the show’s signature “dun-dun” was constantly playing. He later described “SVU” as a kind of personal “pregame show,” saying he started from Season 1 and watched all the way through. That fandom gave him a natural connection to star Mariska Hargitay, whom he has called an idol. That fan relationship evolved into a real friendship as Hargitay became a visible supporter of Brunson and the Knicks. She attended games during New York’s title run, embraced him on court after the NBA Finals, appeared with him at Tribeca, welcomed support from him during her Broadway run, and joined his family on the championship parade bus. Brunson also appeared with Hargitay in the Emmys telecast opening. The crossover became more than speculation after Brunson publicly said during the offseason that he would “try to get on SVU.” Hargitay, who also executive produces the series, then openly backed the idea, saying it was “definitely happening.” NBC confirmed Thursday that Brunson will guest star in Season 28, Episode 5, airing Nov. 5, though his role remains undisclosed. So the path was direct: a childhood viewing ritual created the fandom, the fandom led to a friendship with Hargitay, and that friendship helped bring Brunson onto “SVU.”

3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Sep 17

NBC said Thursday that Knicks star Jalen Brunson will appear in the fifth episode of "Law & Order: SVU," scheduled to air Nov. 5, though his role has not been disclosed.
Brooklyn set photos captured Brunson filming Wednesday, extending a TV stretch that already includes hosting the Sept. 26 season premiere of "Saturday Night Live."
Monday's Emmy telecast also featured Brunson in its opening alongside "SVU" star Mariska Hargitay, underscoring a friendship that has become more visible since the Knicks' title run.
That relationship grew through shared public appearances, including Hargitay attending New York's 107-106 Game 4 Finals comeback and joining Brunson during the Knicks' championship parade after their first title since 1973.