From SVU Villain to Wicked Star: Ethan Slater‘s Range Captivates Audiences
Ethan Slater is experiencing a remarkable career moment, transitioning from a chilling portrayal on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit to a leading role in the film adaptation of the beloved musical Wicked. Viewers revisiting the SVU episode featuring Slater have noted the unsettling effectiveness of his performance as a character displaying disregard for women, a role so convincing it momentarily overshadowed his current success as Boq in Wicked.
Slater’s appearance on SVU occurred six years after his role in NBC’s “Revenge.” The actor’s ability to wholly embody such contrasting characters-a menacing criminal and a sympathetic Munchkin-highlights his versatility. Despite playing a memorable villain, Slater has successfully distanced himself from the role, allowing audiences to fully embrace his portrayal of Boq. Wicked: For Good is currently in theaters, and Law & order: SVU is set to return wiht the second half of Season 27 on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET, featuring a crossover event with Law & Order.
