Christopher Meloni was 'not prepared' for successful Law & Order comeback

Christopher Meloni was not expecting immense love from fans after his return to the new spinoff of Law & Order.

The actor worked in the franchise for 12 seasons until he departed from the show in 2011. Now, after almost a decade, Meloni is back to playing Elliot Stabler in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.

Meloni would be working alongside Mariska Hargitay.

Speaking in a recent promotional appearance, the actor touched more on his role. After receiving an overwhelming response will more than eight million viewership, Meloni is on cloud nine.

"It was pretty overwhelming," Meloni said of the positive fan reaction. "I think [Hargitay] was expecting it more than I was, because I think she's been in the Law and Order stew, she's been in that world continuously for the 20 years. I was not prepared. It's overwhelming and it's wonderful and it's very appreciated."