Mariska Hargitay

About

Mariska Hargitay is an acclaimed American actress best known for her portrayal of Captain Olivia Benson in the long-running television series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU). Her compelling and empathetic performance has not only earned her a multitude of awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe, but has also established her as a prominent advocate for survivors of sexual assault and abuse. Hargitay's dedication to these causes extends beyond the screen; she founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, which aims to heal, educate, and empower survivors.

Before Fame

Mariska Magdolna Hargitay was born on January 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, into a family with notable showbiz pedigree. She is the daughter of 1950s-era sex symbol and actress Jayne Mansfield and former Mr. Universe Mickey Hargitay. Hargitay's upbringing was marked by tragedy when she lost her mother in a car accident at just three years old. Despite this early hardship, she pursued her dream of acting, graduating from UCLA's School of Theatre, Film, and Television. Hargitay took on various roles in television and film before landing her breakthrough role on Law & Order: SVU.

Trivia

• Mariska Hargitay is fluent in five languages: English, Hungarian, French, Spanish, and Italian.
• She has received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing her contributions to the entertainment industry.
• Hargitay's role on Law & Order: SVU has involved her in real-life advocacy work. Her foundation, the Joyful Heart Foundation, has helped influence legislation and support systems for survivors of sexual violence.
• She was once a beauty queen, crowned Miss Beverly Hills USA in the 1980s.

Family Life

Mariska Hargitay is married to fellow actor Peter Hermann, whom she met on the set of Law & Order: SVU. The couple wed on August 28, 2004, and have three children: August Miklos Friedrich Hermann, born in June 2006, and two adopted children, Amaya Josephine and Andrew Nicolas. Hargitay often speaks about the joys and challenges of motherhood and how her family has enriched her life both personally and professionally.

Associated With

Throughout her career on Law & Order: SVU, Mariska Hargitay has acted alongside and formed lasting friendships with many of her co-stars and industry peers. She shares a particularly close bond with Ice-T, who plays Detective Fin Tutuola on the show. Additionally, her advocacy work has seen her partner with various organizations and public figures, including former Vice President Joe Biden, to raise awareness about issues related to sexual assault and abuse.

Mariska Hargitay remains a powerful figure in entertainment and activism, using her platform to influence positive change and support for those most in need. Her legacy continues to grow both on and off the screen.