Upon joining the Special Victims Unit in Season 13, Detective Nick Amaro has some difficulty adjusting to investigating the heinous crimes of child molesters and rapists. In due time, however, his police instincts prove to be indispensable when it comes to the dogged pursuit of criminals. In one Season 13 episode, “Learning Curve,” his instincts are even sharper than Detective Benson’s when it comes to correctly assuming the innocence of an alleged pedophile.
“I wish I had that kind of belief in my instincts,” Pino said in the behind-the-scenes exclusive. “I like his ability to deduce and go after something that he believes.” Amaro’s intuitions were a useful tool, as long as he could reign in his emotions. Ultimately, the detective decamps for California when his misconduct allegations hinder his ability to move up the ranks at work.
Some “SVU” fans think Amaro got unnecessary hate during his time on the show. Luckily, the character was given a second chance when he returned for the 500th episode in 2021. Amaro comes in handy in his new line of work as a geneticist who analyzes DNA. “He certainly has a positive direction to his life where he’s still able to do what he feels is important,” Pino told ET, “which is solving cases and bringing closure to families.”