Mariska Hargitay bids emotional farewell to Kelli Giddish

“Kelli, I’ve loved acting, learning, growing, talking, laughing and crying with you,” she wrote.

“I’ve loved watching your achingly beautiful performances. I’ve loved watching our friendship deepen and grow and blossom.

“I’ve loved every single minute of it, and I will miss you so much. You have my respect, my gratitude and my love forever.”

After beginning the winter finale with Rollins and Carisi’s wedding, she eventually confides to Benson about a job offer to teach in Fordham and tearfully says her farewells.