Mariska Hargitay, a name synonymous with talent and compassion, has captivated audiences for years. Best known for her role as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU), her story is one of resilience, inspiration, and profound impact. Here, we delve into some intriguing facets of her life that reveal the depth and diversity of this remarkable actress and advocate.
She’s the Daughter of Jayne Mansfield
Mariska’s lineage is steeped in Hollywood history. Her parents are Hungarian-born former Mr. Universe Mickey Hargitay and iconic sex symbol Jayne Mansfield. Tragically, her mother died in a car crash in 1967 when Mariska was only 3. To honor her late mother, Mariska carried a locket with photos of her mother and grandmother when she married in 2004.
She Was Named After Mary Magdalene
Raised in a Roman Catholic family, Mariska was given a biblical name at birth. Her first and middle names, Mariska Magdolna, are Hungarian and reference Mary Magdalene, one of Jesus’s followers.
She Was a Beauty Queen
Following in her father’s footsteps in the world of pageantry, Mariska was crowned Miss Beverly Hills USA in 1982. She later competed in Miss California USA alongside Julie Hayek, who went on to win Miss USA.
Her Improv Teacher Was Kathy Griffin
After leaving UCLA to pursue acting, Mariska studied at the Groundlings Theatre and School, where comedian Kathy Griffin was her improv teacher. Their paths crossed again in 2010 when Kathy made a cameo on Law & Order: SVU.
She Almost Played Dulcea in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers
In 1995, Mariska briefly replaced Gabrielle Fitzpatrick as Dulcea in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie when Gabrielle fell ill. However, her scenes were cut when Gabrielle recovered.
She Speaks Multiple Languages
A true polyglot, Mariska is fluent in English, French, Hungarian, Spanish, and Italian.
She Met Her Husband on Law & Order
Mariska met actor Peter Hermann in 2001 on the set of Law & Order: SVU. Their connection deepened when they attended church together. Mariska recalls, “I just about passed out when I saw him there. I thought, ‘That’s my husband.’”
She Is the Mother of Three Children
Mariska and Peter share a beautiful family with three children. Their son, August Miklos Friedrich, was born in June 2006. They later adopted their daughter, Amaya Josephine, and their second son, Andrew Nicolas, nearly five years later.
She Founded the Joyful Heart Foundation
In 2004, Mariska founded the Joyful Heart Foundation to support survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. To date, the foundation has raised over $33.5 million and assisted more than 18,500 individuals.
She Is Part of Taylor Swift’s Infamous Squad
Mariska’s friendship with Taylor Swift extends beyond casual acquaintanceship. She appeared in Swift’s “Bad Blood” music video and joined her on the 1989 tour. Swift even named one of her cats Olivia Benson, after Mariska’s character. Following her groping trial victory, Swift donated a generous sum to the Joyful Heart Foundation.
Mariska Hargitay’s life story is a testament to her resilience, talent, and unwavering commitment to advocacy. From her early days in pageantry and acting to her influential work supporting survivors of abuse, she continues to inspire and make a significant difference. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on the world.