Filming for the upcoming season of "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" is already underway and recent reports claim that a guy from Olivia's past will return to cause a rift between her and Ed Tucker.

Viewers of the series have witnessed how the romance between Olivia and Ed blossomed in the previous season, but rumors have it that Elliot will be back next season to shake things up between them. These rumors were fueled by the recent statement of showrunner Warren Leight, who revealed that actor Christopher Meloni may return as a regular cast member of season 18.

The upcoming season is also expected to show how the death of Sgt. Mike Dodds will affect the characters in the series, especially Olivia Benson and Deputy Chief William Dodds.

Fans speculate that the death of Dodds in the season 17 finale will create a gap between William and Benson as William blames the deputy chief for the death of his son. There are also speculations that William will understand the risky nature of her son's job and will continue to blame herself until she finally decides to leave the task force.

In his interview with E! Online, actor Andy Karl said, "This character has really gained a whole bunch of knowledge and helped out so much with SVU. Then to have a tragedy ripped from the precinct will affect everyone's character. So really, my character will initially affect and move on."

"Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" season 18 premieres on September 21 on NBC.