Mariska Hargitay, widely celebrated for her role as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU), leads a life marked by resilience, talent, and advocacy. Here’s an intimate look at the pivotal moments that have shaped her remarkable journey.
Present During Her Mother’s Tragic Accident
Mariska’s mother, Jayne Mansfield, was a Hollywood sensation in the 1950s and 60s. In 1967, a devastating car crash claimed the lives of Jayne, her driver, and her lawyer. Miraculously, Mariska and her two brothers, who were asleep in the back seat, survived. This tragic event led to the introduction of underride bars on semi-trailer trucks, known as “Mansfield bars.”
Coping with Her Mother’s Death
Though Mariska was too young to remember the crash, she still bears a physical scar from it. The emotional impact, however, surfaced years later. At 22, she plunged into depression, finding solace only through the support of her family. She describes her mother’s death as the “scar of her soul” and feels a deep connection to her mother now that she is a mother herself.
Her Stepmother’s Near-Death Experience
Mariska’s father, Mickey, remarried Ellen Siano, a flight attendant, after Jayne’s passing. Six years later, Ellen almost lost her life in severe turbulence that tragically killed a passenger and injured others. Mariska recalls this terrifying ordeal from her 2008 profile on E! True Hollywood Story.
Champion for Sexual Assault Survivors
In 2004, Mariska founded the Joyful Heart Foundation after learning about the prevalence of sexual assault through her role on SVU. Initially based in Hawaii, the foundation has grown into a national organization, raising nearly $200 million and helping over 18,000 survivors by 2017.
Robbery at Her Childhood Home
After Jayne Mansfield’s death, financial struggles eroded her estate. Subsequently, burglars stole valuable possessions from Mariska’s home. Over time, these items ended up with collectors, and Mariska had to buy back her mother’s charm bracelet to keep a piece of her legacy.
Losing Her Father to Cancer
Mariska was very close to her father, Mickey Hargitay, who succumbed to bone cancer in 2006. The loss, combined with an on-set injury, reopened old emotional wounds. Mariska credits her father’s advice to “never quit” for helping her persevere through this tough period.
Testifying Before Congress for Assault Victims
Mariska’s advocacy extended to Capitol Hill, where she testified in 2010 and 2017 about the backlog of untested sexual assault kits. Her powerful testimony urged Congress to support initiatives aimed at clearing this backlog and ensuring justice for survivors.
Suffering a Collapsed Lung on Set
Known for doing her own stunts, Mariska endured a collapsed lung from a stunt gone wrong in 2009. The injury required multiple surgeries to repair, highlighting her dedication and resilience.
Inspiring Others to Share Their Stories
Through her portrayal of Olivia Benson, Mariska has become a confidant for many survivors of trauma. Women and girls have opened up to her, sharing their most personal and painful experiences, finding in her a safe and understanding listener.
Conducting Grueling Research for SVU
Mariska’s commitment to authenticity in SVU led her to research real-life atrocities, including those highlighted by the Enough Project. Her work on the 2009 episode “Hell,” about child slavery in central Africa, deepened her understanding of global injustices.
Overcoming a Difficult Pregnancy
Mariska faced gestational diabetes during her pregnancy with her son, August. Despite complications, including a stalled labor that necessitated a C-section, both mother and son emerged healthy and happy.
Dealing with College Debt
Despite her current success, Mariska once struggled financially, accruing six-figure debt while trying to maintain her lifestyle. This challenging period taught her valuable lessons about budgeting and living within her means.
Real-Life Heroism
Mariska’s dedication to her SVU role often blurs the lines between fiction and reality. She recounted to E! News how she instinctively helped a fainting pregnant woman on the street, illustrating her natural inclination to step into a protector role.
Mariska Hargitay’s life is a testament to her strength, compassion, and unwavering determination. From personal tragedies to professional triumphs, she continues to inspire and advocate for those in need, making a profound impact both on-screen and off.