**Mariska Hargitay Opens Up About the Emotional Toll: Why She Sometimes Went Home in Tears After Filming ‘Law & Order: SVU’**
For over two decades, Mariska Hargitay has captivated audiences as the indomitable Olivia Benson on *Law & Order: SVU*. The character, a relentless advocate for victims of sexual violence, has been a beacon of strength and resilience in a world often plagued by darkness. However, behind the scenes, Hargitay’s portrayal comes at a significant emotional cost, as she recently revealed in a candid interview about the toll of immersing herself in such harrowing stories.
### The Weight of the Role
Hargitay, known for her powerful performances and advocacy work, has dedicated herself to portraying Benson with authenticity and depth. However, this dedication means confronting difficult and often traumatic subject matter week after week. “There are days when I would come home and just cry,” she confessed. “The stories we tell are so heavy, and sometimes it feels like you’re carrying that weight with you long after the cameras stop rolling.”
Filming episodes that tackle real-life issues such as sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse can leave an indelible mark on any actor. Hargitay’s empathy for her character’s experiences and the victims represented in the stories they portray adds to the emotional burden. “It’s not just acting; it’s stepping into someone else’s trauma,” she explained. “You’re reliving these experiences, and sometimes it’s hard to separate yourself from that reality.”
### Balancing Vulnerability and Strength
Hargitay’s openness about her struggles highlights the often-unseen emotional labor that comes with acting. As a leading figure in a show that tackles such challenging topics, she feels a profound responsibility to accurately depict the pain and strength of survivors. This balance of vulnerability and strength can be particularly challenging, especially when filming scenes that evoke intense emotions.
In one notable episode, Hargitay found herself overwhelmed by the storyline involving a survivor’s harrowing journey to reclaim her life after trauma. “I felt like I was on a rollercoaster of emotions,” she recalled. “When we finished filming, I was drained. I needed to take a moment to process everything.” Such experiences serve as a reminder that even the strongest characters can bear the weight of their narratives.
### The Power of Support
Despite the challenges, Hargitay finds solace in the support of her co-stars and crew. The camaraderie developed over years of working together creates a safe space for sharing emotions and processing the impact of their work. “We’re like a family,” she said, emphasizing the importance of having colleagues who understand the emotional toll the show can take. “It’s crucial to have people around you who can support you and help you through the hard days.”
In addition, Hargitay’s real-life advocacy work has provided her with a deeper understanding of the issues portrayed on screen. As the founder of the Joyful Heart Foundation, which supports survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, she channels her passion for advocacy into her work on *SVU*. This dual commitment to storytelling and real-world impact allows her to process her emotions in a constructive way.
### Moving Forward
As *Law & Order: SVU* continues its historic run, Hargitay remains committed to portraying Benson with authenticity and integrity. Despite the emotional toll, she recognizes the importance of telling these stories and giving a voice to those who have suffered in silence. “Every tear, every moment of pain is worth it if it helps someone else feel seen or heard,” she reflected.
Ultimately, Mariska Hargitay’s journey as Olivia Benson is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. By sharing her struggles and the emotional weight of her role, she sheds light on the realities of acting while inspiring others to confront their own vulnerabilities. In doing so, she ensures that *Law & Order: SVU* remains not just a gripping television series but a powerful platform for awareness and change.
