Mariska Hargitay is best known for her role as Olivia Benson on the hit NBC series Law & Order: SVU. As she embarks on her 22nd season, fans can hardly imagine the series without her. Beyond her iconic character, Hargitay has become a beacon of inspiration, tirelessly advocating for survivors and championing justice. Her use of celebrity status to drive positive change underscores her commitment to making a difference.
Words that Define Her
In season 20, episode 3 of Inside the Actors Studio, Hargitay spoke with James Lipton, who asked her questions from the Bernard Pivot Questionnaire. When asked about her favorite word, she didn’t limit herself to one but listed five: “Inspirit, sparkling, open, heart, and light.”
Each word Hargitay chose is profoundly positive. “Inspirit” means to fill someone with spirit and vitality, reflecting Hargitay’s uplifting presence. The words she selected are not just favorites; they embody her essence and the character she portrays on television.
Conversely, when asked about her least favorite word, Hargitay chose “moist,” a choice that elicited laughter from the audience. “It’s gross,” she added, a sentiment many people share.
A Force for Positive Change
Hargitay’s favorite words mirror her impact on and off the screen. Known for her advocacy for survivors of sexual assault and violence, she founded The Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004. This initiative was a direct response to the numerous fan letters she received, where survivors shared their personal stories of abuse and survival. The word “Heart,” one of her favorites, is a fitting inclusion in the foundation’s name.
In a 2018 interview on The View, Hargitay explained the profound influence these letters had on her. Unlike typical fan mail, these letters disclosed abuse, often for the first time, leaving Hargitay feeling privileged yet unsure of how to respond.
The Joyful Heart Foundation’s mission is “to transform society’s response to sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, support survivors’ healing, and end this violence forever.” This mission highlights Hargitay’s dedication to advocacy and support for survivors.
Beyond Acting
Hargitay’s efforts extend beyond her foundation. She is also a producer of I Am Evidence, an HBO documentary that highlights the backlog of untested rape kits in the United States and shares the stories of four sexual assault survivors. The documentary, supported by The Joyful Heart Foundation, emphasizes the critical importance of addressing this issue.
The Essence of Mariska Hargitay
Mariska Hargitay’s favorite words—“inspirit, sparkling, open, heart, and light”—reflect her positive influence and dedication to justice and healing. She is more than just a celebrated actress; she is a powerful advocate for change, tirelessly working to make the world a better place. As fans eagerly await the new season of Law & Order: SVU, they can also appreciate the remarkable person Hargitay is, both on and off the screen.
