When it comes to determined, reliable detectives, few members of the “SVU” squad can hold a candle to Amanda Rollins (Kelli Giddish). Before her Season 24 departure, she was a permanent fixture on the team for an impressive ten seasons. Although she has an outstanding arrest record and can hold her own in most circumstances, Rollins is far from a perfect character. However, she is always willing to admit her mistakes and improve herself. For example, in Season 13’s “Home Invasions,” the “SVU” team learns that Rollins has a gambling problem. While this could have derailed her career, Rollins owns her shortcomings and seeks treatment.
Detective Rollins is equally humble and hardworking in her personal life, raising two girls essentially on her own. Her daughters give her a soft spot for young female victims, who she fearlessly defends at all costs. For instance, in the Season 24 premiere, “Gimme Shelter — Part Two,” Rollins gets shot protecting a witness and nearly loses her life. She thinks nothing of heroically jumping in front of a bullet to save the young girl, despite the obvious danger. Though she understandably experiences lasting trauma after the event, her strength and bravery in this life-and-death situation are undeniable.
