Law & Order: SVU season 27, episode 2 is notably missing Fin Tutuola, which results in theories that Ice-T may have already left the famed procedural after over two decades. As the longest-running scripted series on the air, Dick Wolf and NBC’s premier show has underwent so many changes during its time on the air. Characters come and go, even original ones, like when Chris Meloni left Law & Order: SVU in season 12.

Because of its ensemble cast, the procedural was able to move forward even when it lost one of its main characters. More players were introduced, who became eventual fan-favorite, such as Rafael Barba, Sonny Carisi, and Amanda Rollins. Amid all of these changes, Olivia Benson remains a constant force in the show, while Mariska Hargitay becomes an executive producer off-camera.

Aside from Benson, however, there’s another character who has been in Law & Order: SVU for nearly as long — Fin. While he may not be an original cast member, he is now also synonymous with the series. So naturally, questions arise about his whereabouts when he’s missing in action in Law & Order: SVU season 27, episode 2.

Ice-T’s Fin Is Out Of Office In Law & Order: SVU Season 27, Episode 2

Law & Order: SVU season 27, episode 2 officially moves on from the shocking death of Captain Cragen in the premiere. As Benson’s team work together, various new developments happen, including Joe Velasco’s brand new mission — something that he has only shared with his captain for now. Meanwhile, the team sees 2 potential additions: ADA Cindy Jones and Detective Jake Griffin.

Amid all these developments, Fin is noticeably absent from the case. While characters on the show usually miss an episode or 2 as part of Wolf Entertainment’s cost-cutting efforts, Ice-T’s character admitting that he has been thinking about retirement during Captain Cragen’s memorial raises concerns that he may have fasttracked that process and decided to walk away from service.

However, the truth is that Fin is just on vacation following his serious injuries from being jumped on his way home in the Law & Order: SVU season 27 premiere. So, his absence is only temporary, as he is expected to come back to work once he’s fully healed.

When WIll Ice-T’s Fin Be Back In Law & Order: SVU?

The good thing is that there’s a definitive timeline for Fin’s return. Ahead of Law & Order: SVU season 27’s debut on NBC, Ice-T teased what was next for his character in the procedural’s exciting year. He did mention that something bad would happen to Fin during the opening hour, which would lead to him missing the next episode.

However, Fin won’t be taking too long to recuperate as Fin is already confirmed to come back next week for Law & Order: SVU season 27, episode 3. It’s unclear if he’s set to miss anymore episodes throughout the year but for now, Ice-T remains a central actor in the show. It’s safe to say that he will continue to do so until Hargitay is also in it.