Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has farewelled show regular, Raúl Esparza who played Assistant District Attorney Rafael Barba for six seasons.
Raúl first appeared in the role in season 14 before being his character became a regular. In his final episode, Raúl’s character Rafael faced a heartbreaking dilemma in which he decided to withdraw the life support of a brain-dead child.
Raúl spoke to Entertainment Weekly about his decision to leave: “I’ve done six seasons, I felt like it was time to go.”
“I had explored a lot of what I thought Barba was about. I just felt it was time to move on.
“I was also feeling like the role has changed over the years in a way that has been an interesting experience for me.”
While his character has decided to leave the District Attorney’s office for now, the door remains open for the possibility of a future return. And it’s something he says he would ‘absolutely’ be open to.
“I’m really rooting for the opportunity to make television history with the series.
“I’d be lying if I didn’t say that’s part of what we all hope for, that NBC manages in the end to get a record-breaking series on its hands with potential 21 years.”
Law & Order: SVU‘s showrunner, Michael Chernuchin, also hinted at the possibility of a return in the future.
“The power, sensitivity, and morality he brought to the character of Rafael Barba never failed to elevate our scripts,” he said. “Raúl is family and we look forward to seeing his talent shine in new projects. As for Barba, SVU fans may see him again soon.”
Michael also touched on what a pleasure it was to work with the actor: “It has truly been an honor writing for Raúl.”
For now, Raúl will be returning to Broadway for a revival of Chess. And while it’s goodbye for now to Rafael, we have a feeling it’s not forever.
