Law & Order Season 25 Episode 7 “Guardian”

Law & Order continues its milestone 25th season with a gripping new installment titled “Law & Order Season 25 Episode 7 “Guardian,” airing Thursday, Nov. 13 (8:00–9:00 PM ET/PT) on NBC and streaming the next day on Peacock. Combining timely themes with its signature blend of investigative drama and courtroom tension, this episode digs into the pressures surrounding young athletes—and the dangerous lengths some will go to for profit.

In “Guardian,” the NYPD investigates the shocking murder of a high school sports prodigy whose rising success had drawn widespread attention. As detectives dig deeper into the victim’s final hours, they discover multiple suspects tied to the teen’s talent, potential endorsements, and future earnings. From exploitative coaches to opportunistic community figures, the case uncovers a network of people hoping to cash in on the young athlete’s abilities. Each new lead exposes a fresh motive fueled by greed.

Meanwhile, Detective Riley, still adjusting to her evolving role within the precinct, is assigned a new partner, adding another layer of tension and character development to the season. The partnership shift forces Riley to adapt quickly—balancing her instincts, investigative style, and the demands of a high-profile case under intense public scrutiny.

The episode highlights Law & Order’s hallmark approach: examining not only how crimes occur but also the systems and societal pressures that allow them to happen. As the detectives piece together what led to the teen’s murder, the second half of the episode brings the legal team to center stage. The district attorneys must determine how to prosecute individuals who profited from the young victim’s success, even if their involvement falls into morally gray areas.

Returning for the 25th season are series stars:

Hugh Dancy
Tony Goldwyn
Odelya Halevi
Reid Scott
Maura Tierney

The long-running franchise—created by Dick Wolf—remains one of television’s most iconic dramas, known for its split-format storytelling that showcases both the police investigation and the prosecution of offenders. With a legacy of topical, thought-provoking cases, Law & Order continues to adapt to current issues while staying true to its classic structure.

Produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, in association with Wolf Entertainment, the series maintains its reputation for grounded storytelling and compelling performances.

Episode 7 “Guardian” promises a tragic, emotionally charged case that raises questions about mentorship, responsibility, and exploitation—while also opening new character dynamics with Riley’s latest partnership shift.

Scroll below for the newest episode stills and behind-the-scenes photos from the Nov. 13 broadcast.