Louis Litt
The passionate partner with a big heart and an even bigger temper.
Louis Litt J.D., Esq. is a fictional character from the USA Network legal drama television series Suits. Introduced as a lawyer at the New York law firm Pearson Hardman, Louis is widely known for his rivalry with Harvey Specter and his effort to earn the respect of the other partners, which is the central role in his character throughout the series. Over the course of the show, he becomes a named partner and eventually helps lead the firm. The character was created by Aaron Korsh and portrayed by Rick Hoffman, appearing throughout all nine seasons of Suits and later reprised in the 2025 spinoff series Suits LA.
Quick Facts
- Series
- Suits
- First
- "Pilot" (2011)
- Last
- Suits (2019)
- "One Last Con"
- Suits LA (2025)
- "Angry Sylvester"
- Creator
- Aaron Korsh
- Portrayed by
- Rick Hoffman
- Full name
- Louis Marlowe Litt
- Gender
- Male
- Occupation
- Lawyer
Lore & Background
Louis Litt was born and raised in Scarsdale, New York. He attended high school, where he took part in activities. He studied at Harvard Law School, where he earned a law degree and graduated with the Order of the Coif. Before the events of the series, Louis worked as a senior associate at Pearson Hardman.
Harvey joined the firm after leaving the district attorney's office, and both later became junior partners, though the exact year is not specified. Their professional rivalry began after Louis leaked Harvey's legal strategy in a case during Season 1, episode 'Identity Crisis', in order to gain favor with Daniel Hardman. Louis is Jewish and occasionally refers to his faith and traditions. As a junior partner he worked with his longtime secretary Norma, though their relationship was often tense.
At one point he was accused of stealing from the firm, but it was later revealed that Daniel Hardman and Eric Woodall had framed him in Season 5. Louis was named one of the best comic-relief characters in dramas by The Must List: Ranking the Best in 25 Years of Pop Culture.
Reader's Guide
The legal firm known variously as Pearson Hardman and later Pearson Specter Litt stands as a titan in the Manhattan skyline. Louis Litt's journey reflects the firm's evolution from a traditional powerhouse to a modern battleground for power. His ascent began as a senior associate, a long struggle that contrasted sharply with his eventual rise to managing partner. In Season 8, after a dispute over the promotion of Samantha Wheeler and Alex Williams, Donna urges Louis to take control of the firm.
Louis runs for managing partner and wins the vote. His first decision is to promote both Samantha and Alex to name partner at the same time. In Season 9, Saul Zuckerman offers Louis a judgeship, but he initially turns it down, showing he does not want to leave the firm. Louis appears in the final episode of the first season of Suits LA, where he attends an hostility mitigation retreat and initially clashes with criminal defense lawyer Stuart Lane.
They eventually bond over their similar temperaments and take part in retreat activities, including a mud bath. Louis shares personal reflections and engages in familiar activities before the story concludes with them forming a friendly connection.
Did You Know?
- In Season 3, Louis becomes upset about office supplies after a merger changes the brands he prefers to use.
- Louis' resignation letter in Season 5, episode 'Blowback', ended with 'Please take care of my plants', which was meant to be a key turning point for the character's journey.
- Louis appears in the 2025 spinoff series Suits LA, attending a hostility mitigation retreat where he bonds with lawyer Stuart Lane over a mud bath.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Louis Litt?
Louis Marlowe Litt is a fictional attorney working at the New York law firm Pearson Hardman and its successor entities. Portrayed by Rick Hoffman, he is defined by his intense rivalry with Harvey Specter and his relentless pursuit of professional respect.
What is Louis Litt's role in the firm?
He serves as a Senior Partner who eventually rises to become the Managing Partner of the firm. His responsibilities include handling complex litigation cases while fighting for recognition among the other partners.
Who plays Louis Litt?
The role is performed by actor Rick Hoffman, who appeared in every episode of the original nine-season run. His portrayal earned significant acclaim and led to his return in later franchise appearances.
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