Is Muncy Leaving SVU? Why is Muncy leaving SVU?
by Mathelene | Updated May 22, 2023
Is Muncy Leaving SVU?
Yes, Muncy is leaving SVU. According to Deadline, Molly Burnett will be leaving the NBC series "Special Victims Unit" (SVU), where she portrayed Detective Grace Muncy, after less than a year on the show. During the two-hour crossover episode of SVU/Organized Crime, which served as the season finale for both shows, the exit of Detective Grace Muncy's character was clearly depicted.
In the first hour, Muncy shared with Joe Velasco that Chief McGrath was impressed with her work on the Elias Olsen case and had offered her a promotion to a task force. Then, in the second hour, Muncy bid farewell to Fin, who hugged her and expressed that he would miss her. As she packed up her desk, it was evident that she had accepted a new job, which was not shown on-screen. Molly Burnett's time in the SVU squad room was relatively brief.
She joined the series in July and made her debut in the second episode of Season 24 titled "The One You Feed." This news comes shortly after the announcement that Kelli Giddish, another cast member, would also be exiting the series in August. Giddish's final episode as a series regular was episode 9 of Season 24.
Kelli Giddish reprised her role as Amanda Rollins in the crossover season finales of both "Law & Order: SVU" and "Law & Order: Organized Crime," which aired recently. Her character, Rollins, revealed that she is pregnant during these episodes. In the same SVU finale, the departure of Detective Grace Muncy was also revealed.
While it is unknown whether Rollins will fill the open spot left by Muncy's departure, the episode is expected to give fans some hope. A clip of the character's emotional goodbye was shared by series producers Wolf Entertainment. Further details about the circumstances of Detective Muncy's departure and the future of the vacant role are yet to be revealed.
Why is Muncy leaving SVU?
The exact reason for Molly Burnett's departure from SVU as a series regular remains unclear. The actress did not provide an explanation on her social media platforms regarding her decision to leave the show ahead of Season 25. It is worth noting that her departure coincides with Kelli Giddish's exit from SVU as well. Giddish's final episode as a series regular was Season 24, Episode 9.
In the Law & Order: SVU and Law & Order: Organized Crime finale episode that aired on May 18, 2023, Kelli Giddish reprised her role as Amanda Rollins and surprised viewers by revealing that her character is pregnant. On the eve of the finale, Giddish shared a photo of her character with Joe Velasco (played by Octavio Pisano) on her social media.
In the coming months, more information may surface regarding Molly Burnett's departure from the show and her future plans as an actress. Detective Grace Muncy made her debut in Season 24, Episode 2 of "Special Victims Unit" as a member of the Gang Task Force.
Impressed by her drive and skills, Detective Benson offered her a position on SVU. However, Muncy's attitude was sometimes tough, as she roughed up a suspect named Elias Olson. During the trial, she lost control, resulting in Olson being set free. Although she eventually helped capture him, Muncy was still reeling from her failure.
In addition to her difficult tenure on SVU, Muncy faced personal challenges when her brother became involved with a drug dealer. These factors, coupled with her desire for a promotion, suggest that Muncy's departure from the show is permanent. TVLine has confirmed that actress Molly Burnett is indeed leaving the series.
To compensate for Muncy's absence, the show has introduced new characters such as Terry Bruno, portrayed by Kevin Kane, and Tonie Churlish, played by Jasmine Batchelor. These fresh faces will likely help fill the void left by Muncy's departure. Interestingly, former SVU detective Amanda Rollins, portrayed by Kelli Giddish, lent a hand on a recent case.
It was evident that Rollins missed being a cop, and this development might indicate that the producers realized letting Giddish go was a mistake. It could potentially pave the way for Rollins to make a return to the series.
Who is Muncy?
Molly Kathleen Burnett, born on April 23, 1988, is an accomplished American actress, singer, and producer. She gained recognition for her notable portrayals, such as Kelly Ann in the TV series "Queen of the South" and Melanie Jonas in the popular daytime soap opera "Days of Our Lives."
Burnett's talent and dedication to her craft have earned her acclaim in the industry, including Daytime Emmy Award nominations. She received nods for Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series in 2010 and 2012 for her work in "Days of Our Lives." In 2018, she garnered another nomination, this time for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Digital Daytime Drama Series.
Born and raised in Littleton, Colorado, Molly Burnett grew up in a loving family alongside her parents Katie and David Burnett, as well as her younger brother Will. Her passion for acting was evident from a young age, and she actively participated in various school and theater productions during her time at Littleton High School, showcasing her talent to the Denver community.
Some of her notable performances include roles in productions such as "A Midsummer Night's Dream," "Noises Off," and she even had the opportunity to take on the lead role in "Annie." Following her graduation from Littleton High School with honors, Burnett pursued her higher education at Wagner College. Located on Staten Island, Wagner College provided her with a solid foundation in the liberal arts as she honed her skills and further developed her talent.
Molly Burnett's versatile abilities as an actress, combined with her musical talents and production expertise, have established her as a respected figure in the entertainment industry. Her passion for storytelling continues to drive her career forward, captivating audiences with her performances on screen and stage.
SVU
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU) is an American crime drama TV series produced by Wolf Entertainment for NBC. It serves as a spin-off of the original Law & Order and features Christopher Meloni as Detective Elliot Stabler and Mariska Hargitay as Detective Olivia Benson, who later becomes the commanding officer of the Special Victims Unit.
Premiering on September 20, 1999, SVU has gained tremendous popularity over the years. It holds the distinction of being the longest-running primetime U.S. live-action series in television history, surpassing the original Law & Order after its 21st season in September 2019. The show follows a similar format to its predecessor, drawing inspiration from real-life crimes that have received media attention.
Since the conclusion of the original Law & Order series in 2010, SVU stands as the sole live-action primetime series from the 1990s that has remained in continuous production. As of May 11, 2023, the show has aired 537 original episodes, surpassing the episode count of the original Law & Order series. It currently ranks as the fourth highest in terms of all-time episode count for a primetime scripted series.
SVU has garnered 91 award nominations and has won 33 awards. Notably, Mariska Hargitay made history as the first regular cast member in any Law & Order series to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006. With its 24th season premiering in September 2022 and a 25th season already confirmed, SVU continues to captivate audiences with its gripping storytelling and enduring characters.
Is Muncy Leaving SVU - FAQs
Yes, Muncy is leaving SVU.
The exact reason for Molly Burnett's departure from SVU has not been revealed.
Molly Burnett is an American actress, singer, and producer.
SVU premiered on September 20, 1999. As of May 11, 2023, it has aired 537 original episodes, making it the longest-running primetime U.S. live-action series in television history.