Law & Order: SVU stars Mariska Hargitay and Chris Meloni have captivated fans for years with their on-screen chemistry. While viewers have long shipped their characters, Hargitay has been happily married to her husband, Peter Hermann, for 19 years. Hermann, fully aware of the close bond between Hargitay and Meloni, has taken it all in stride with good humor.
Peter Hermann’s Playful Negotiations with Chris Meloni
Hargitay and Meloni’s partnership began in 1999 when they both joined Law & Order: SVU. Their screen test sparked a connection that would grow into a deep friendship. Despite Meloni’s departure from the show in 2011, they have remained close. Fans have often wondered if their relationship ever extended beyond the screen.
“For four years, and we just broke up two months ago,” Hargitay joked on Today.
Meloni quipped, “Don’t tell our spouses.”
In reality, Meloni has been married to Sherman Williams since 1995, and Hargitay found her life partner in Peter Hermann. The couple met when Hermann guest-starred on SVU, and Hargitay has often said she fell for him instantly. After three years of dating, they married in 2004 and have been inseparable ever since.
Hermann, fully aware of his wife’s close relationship with her co-star, has poked fun at the situation. In an interview with E! News, he humorously remarked on their unique dynamic.
“Sometimes Chris and I have some things to negotiate, but we’ve gotten really good at communicating with each other,” Hermann said. “There’s a lot of give and take. In the end, all three of us are really happy.”
The Secret to Mariska Hargitay and Peter Hermann’s Long-Lasting Marriage
Hargitay and Hermann’s enduring relationship often raises questions about their secret to a happy marriage. Hermann attributes their success to one simple element: laughter.
“I never thought I would have this much laughter in my life,” Hermann shared with People. “Not just actual laughter, but also the way that Mariska is just the embodiment of laughter — of joy.”
Hargitay acknowledged that their relationship isn’t without its challenges, and they do have their disagreements. However, they always find a way to resolve conflicts with humor.
“It’s the way we find our way back to each other,” Hermann explained. “It’s this fantastically, wonderfully ridiculous way that we can swing back and forth any number of times in any given day. But fundamentally, we know we have the same destination.”
Hermann believes their future together is bright because they share a common goal.
“We know where we’re headed, and it’s good. And we know we’ll get there together,” he said.
Chris Meloni’s Take on His Partnership with Mariska Hargitay
Meloni shares a similar sentiment about Hargitay’s sense of humor being a cornerstone of their working relationship. He believes their ability to find humor in any situation is key to their successful partnership.
“For me, most importantly, she’s a keen sense of humor,” Meloni told Access. “And if things get a little tense, we’re able to go to that place. And even if they’re not tense, we’re still able to communicate.”
Through humor and mutual respect, Hargitay and Meloni have maintained a strong professional bond, while Hargitay and Hermann have built a loving and enduring marriage. Both relationships highlight the importance of laughter, communication, and shared goals.
