Detective Odafin Tutuola’s transition from the undercover narcotics division of law enforcement to the special victims unit was awkward for him.
The tough Harlem native could handle crimes associated with drugs and its dealers, but cruel sex-based offenses made him uncomfortable, initially. After the departure of Det. Monique Jeffries (Michelle Hurd), Fin became her SVU replacement, partnering with veteran detective, John Munch (Richard Belzer).
Fin’s social views on life and criminal behavior were not popular with his NYPD 16th Precinct co-workers, but as the years progressed they learned to understand each other. Fin grew to become a valuable and respected addition to the SVU.
Law & Order: SVU was the first spin-off of writer/producer Dick Wolf’s long-running crime drama procedural, Law & Order. The special victims unit added a new twist to the lore, its characters came with more personal baggage and edge. Ice T’s Fin debuted in the now classic season 2 episode “Wrong Is Right” in October of 2000.
After his previous partner takes a bullet intended for him, Fin joins the sex crimes unit as the team underwent a chaotic staff transition following internal psyche investigations. To make matters less favorable, the SVU were also handling a horrific murder.
Fin’s outspoken views and unconventional perspectives immediately rubbed the lead detectives the wrong way. Ice T’s role added a new level of conflict to already established department turmoil.
All the charisma Ice T was known for as an iconic hip-hop recording artist was incorporated into his portrayal of Fin. What’s best, the character also reflected Ice T’s real life intellect. For those who can’t separate real life from fiction, Ice T from Odafin “Fin” Tutuola, he proved, and continues to prove, hip-hop artists as musicians or actors are capable of incredible depth and intelligence. |THIS.
[By Mr. Joe Walker]
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