SVU Episode That Earned Robin Williams An Emmy Nomination

In 2008, Robin Williams was nominated for a Primetime Emmy for his work in Season 9 of "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." Diehard fans of the series certainly remember his epic guest performance but might not have known the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences was just as taken with his portrayal of Merritt Rook in Episode 17 ("Authority"). In the landmark episode (the 200th of the series), Rook is an audio engineer charged with conspiracy to commit sexual assault. After representing himself in his trial, Rook is found not guilty and starts organizing demonstrations urging citizens to stand up to authority.

It's later found out by Elliot Stabler (Christopher Meloni) and Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) that Rook drove his wife's doctor to suicide after she and his unborn child died during the birth. When it looks like Rook can be arrested yet again, he traps Benson in a sound booth and fools Stabler into thinking she's being electrocuted. Rook gives himself up, and after being handcuffed, he sets off an explosive that knocks the threesome out. The story ends with the audience and the detectives assuming Rook drowned in a nearby river, but it's never for sure.

William's chilling performance will go down in history as one of the best guest spots ever on "Law & Order: SVU." While the comedian didn't take home the Emmy (Glynn Turman won for "In Treatment"), his impression on the series certainly won't be forgotten.