Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni have made it no secret that they hope to cut back on their hours solving crimes on 'Law & Order: SVU.' Now, sources say another veteran TV star is eyeing a role as Hargitay's replacement: Jennifer Love Hewitt.

The former 'Ghost Whisperer' star is in talks to step in as the new partner of Elliot Stabler (Meloni), after Det. Olivia Benson (Hargitay) is promoted in the precinct to a supervising position mid-season, TV Line reports.

Hargitay has signed a deal to return for the 13th season of 'SVU,' but working fewer hours at the same salary. Meloni hasn't yet signed his deal, but is reportedly asking for a raise.

Hewitt has also not signed a deal yet. The actress appeared on the series earlier this season during an episode that brought attention to the problem of rape kit backlogs in police precincts across the country; Hewitt played a woman who was stalked and raped by a man for 15 years.