Mariska Hargitay is an award-winning American actress, producer, and philanthropist, best known for her portrayal of Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. With a career spanning over three decades, Hargitay has become a household name in television drama, celebrated for her advocacy on social issues through both her acting and charitable work.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Mariska Hargitay was born on January 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, to actress Jayne Mansfield and bodybuilder Mickey Hargitay. Despite the tragic loss of her mother at a young age, she pursued acting, studying at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) before beginning her career with small television roles.
Breakthrough with Law & Order: SVU
Hargitay’s career-defining role came in 1999 when she was cast as Olivia Benson in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Her performance earned her critical acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy Award and a Golden Globe. She has remained a core part of the show through its 26th season, making her one of the longest-running female leads in television history.
Career Highlights:
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (2006)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actress (2005)
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2013)
Recent News
- Interview with Willie Geist: Hargitay recently reflected on her Law & Order: SVU audition and long-term partnership with co-star Christopher Meloni.
- Personal Reflections: She opened up about her mother Jayne Mansfield’s tragic death, revealing the profound impact it had on her life.
- Taylor Swift Connection: Hargitay discussed how Taylor Swift named her cat after her character, Olivia Benson.
Personal Life
Hargitay has been married to actor Peter Hermann since 2004, with whom she shares three children. She is actively involved in philanthropy, particularly advocating for survivors of sexual assault through her Joyful Heart Foundation, founded in 2004.
Social Media and Public Presence
Stay connected with Mariska Hargitay:
- Instagram: @therealmariskahargitay
- Twitter: @Mariska
- Joyful Heart Foundation: www.joyfulheartfoundation.org
Mariska Hargitay continues to inspire audiences with her powerful performances and humanitarian efforts, solidifying her legacy as both a talented actress and dedicated advocate.
