Raleigh-born actress stars in new Law & Order show

A Raleigh-born actress is making waves in New York City as a co-star in a new "Law & Order" franchise on NBC that also features some well-known names.

Ainsley Seiger, whose family still lives in Raleigh, will star alongside Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay in the new "Law & Order: Organized Crime."

Seiger said the opportunity to work with actors from her childhood is wonderful.

"I have always been such a fan of true crime [and] any sort of crime show I could get my hands on," said Seiger. "I grew up watching it, and to be a part of the show with so many iconic characters from my childhood, it's mind blowing."

Seiger said Meloni, the show's main actor, helped ease her nerves during filming.

"He is very warm, and his energy is so fun, and he has really welcomed me into the crew with super-open arms," she described.

"Law & Order: Organized Crime" began filming during the coronavirus pandemic. Seiger said that, because this is her first acting job, she's unsure of what it's like to be on set without masks and other protective gear.

"We wear masks around each other all the time, until it is time for last looks. Then, they come and change my makeup and everyone wears face shields over their face when we are not wearing masks," she added.

"Law and Order: Organized Crime" premiered on April 1. New episodes are on Thursdays at 10 p.m.