Law & Order: SVU season 22 episode 4 is set to arrive next week on NBC, with the title 'Sightless in a Savage Land." There is a notable character showing up within this episode, and his return could cause problems to others. It was confirmed that Raul Esparza is coming back as Rafael Barba.
Barba's return in Law & Order: SVU season 22 episode 4 won't be a happy and friendly reunion for everyone. This character hasn't been seen in the series for quite a long time. Now, he comes back for a very specific reason -- he' about to face off against Dominick Carisi, Jr. (Peter Scanavino) in court.
The synopsis notes that Carisi and Barba come face-to-face in an emotional courtroom battle. While viewers know that this showdown is coming, there are only a few details on how this face-off will progress. Both of them must set aside their personal lives, making the situation more complicated.
Esparza has been a series regular in the series since season 15 before eventually departing in season 19. After his exit, he made a guest appearance in the show in season 21. Now that the former ADA is back again, some stories will be fleshed out.
Since Barba is now working for the defense, this could be a huge problem for Carisi in Law & Order: SVU season 22 episode 4. One of the major hurdles here is that he needs to square off with someone he knows. The promo also indicates that things started to heat up between them.
Meanwhile, the upcoming episode will also bring a huge event for everyone. This is a rare episode wherein New Year's Eve is being featured. However, this won't be an entirely happy celebration as the squad needs to track down an Amber Alert.
It remains to be seen how this particular storyline will play out in Law & Order: SVU season 22 episode 4. New Year's Eve celebrations in New York City tend to be huge and iconic. But, considering the pandemic, there might be some adjustments in the plot to accommodate the current situation.
Instead of celebrating, the squad will be working on a case. There could be a lot of intense happenings that could put some characters in danger. Also, this storyline is similar to what viewers witnessed with the team's missions in the past.
Law & Order: SVU season 22 episode 4 airs on Thursday, January 7, 2021, on NBC.
