Yes, Peter Scanavino played two distinct characters on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. He is widely recognized for his long-standing role as Dominick Carisi Jr., but he first appeared on the show in a different capacity.
Peter Scanavino's Dual Roles on SVU
Before becoming a core cast member, Scanavino made a guest appearance portraying a separate character, which is a common occurrence for actors in the Law & Order universe. This dual role showcases his versatility and is a notable detail in the show's history.
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Dominick Carisi Jr.: Scanavino's primary and most extensive role on SVU is Dominick Carisi Jr. He initially joined the Special Victims Unit as a detective, bringing a unique perspective from his background in Staten Island. Over his tenure, Carisi evolved significantly, eventually transitioning from a detective to an Assistant District Attorney (ADA), a role he continues to hold. His journey on the show has been central to many storylines, exploring the complexities of law enforcement and the legal system.
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Johnny Dubcek: Scanavino's first appearance on SVU was in a Season 14 episode where he played Johnny Dubcek. This character was involved in a case where he assaulted two individuals, one of whom was a pedophile. This early guest role was brief but significant, preceding his return to the series as a main character just two seasons later.
Character Overview
To illustrate the two distinct roles, here's a summary:
| Character Name | Role on SVU | Season of Appearance | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dominick Carisi Jr. | Detective, later Assistant District Attorney | Season 16 – Present | Main cast member, transitioned from law enforcement to legal prosecution. |
| Johnny Dubcek | Suspect/Guest Character | Season 14 | Appeared in a single episode, involved in assaults. |
This demonstrates that while his role as Carisi is iconic, Scanavino did indeed perform as another character on the show before joining the main cast.
