The episode features several notable guest stars who later became franchise staples:
: Some viewers consider it a weaker entry in an otherwise strong final season of the original run, though it is often cited by fans for Raúl Esparza's "bad guy" performance before his hero turn on SVU . "Law & Order" Blackmail (TV Episode 2010) - IMDb [S20E12] Blackmail
: The police coordinate a sting operation to arrest the blackmailer, Dennis di Palma (played by Raúl Esparza), as he accepts a check from Carville. The episode features several notable guest stars who
: Critics noted that while the "ripped from the headlines" premise felt sensationalist and "sleazy" on paper, the performance by S. Epatha Merkerson (Lt. Van Buren) remained a standout. Epatha Merkerson (Lt
: Portrays the talk show host, Vanessa Carville. Tom Lipinski : Appears as Derek Fanning. Alexandra Silber : Guest stars as Sara Bradley. Critical Reception
: Plays the blackmailer, Dennis di Palma. Esparza later joined Law & Order: SVU as a series regular, ADA Rafael Barba.