Mariska Hargitay, the star of *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU)*, has captivated audiences for more than two decades with her portrayal of the iconic Detective Olivia Benson. But what truly drew Hargitay to the role? It wasn’t just the allure of television fame, but a deep connection to the material itself—one that resonated on a personal and emotional level.
Hargitay has revealed that she was profoundly “drawn to the material” of *SVU* because of the show’s commitment to shedding light on stories that are often left in the shadows. From the very beginning, the series tackled difficult subjects like sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse—issues that Hargitay felt were too often ignored in mainstream media. For her, stepping into the shoes of Olivia Benson meant more than just playing a detective—it meant being a voice for the voiceless, a protector for the vulnerable, and an advocate for justice.
One of the key reasons Hargitay connected so strongly with the role of Benson was her own sense of empathy and compassion. In interviews, she’s spoken about how the stories of survivors hit her on a deep, emotional level. “The material was so powerful and relevant,” she shared. “It wasn’t just a cop show—it was about justice, healing, and giving hope to those who have suffered.”
Beyond the script, Hargitay’s dedication to the cause extended into real life. After receiving countless letters from survivors of sexual assault and abuse, she felt compelled to do more. In 2004, she founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, an organization aimed at helping survivors of sexual violence heal. For Hargitay, the role of Olivia Benson wasn’t just a job—it became her life’s mission. Her involvement in the foundation allowed her to use her platform to effect real change, making her portrayal of Benson even more authentic and impactful.
Hargitay has also emphasized how *SVU* challenged her as an actress. The emotional weight of the stories often took a toll, but it was this very challenge that made her grow. “I was drawn to the material because it pushed me,” she said. “It made me confront uncomfortable truths, both about society and about myself.” Benson’s evolution over the years—transforming from a rookie detective to a seasoned captain—mirrored Hargitay’s own growth, both personally and professionally.
It’s this deep, personal connection to the material that has kept Hargitay anchored to *SVU* for more than 20 seasons. Unlike many actors who move on after a few years, she has stayed, committed to telling the stories that matter. The authenticity she brings to the role is evident in every episode, and it’s clear that her passion for the material has only grown stronger over time.
In the end, Mariska Hargitay’s dedication to *SVU* goes far beyond her acting talent. Her empathy, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice have made her portrayal of Olivia Benson one of the most iconic characters in television history. Through her work on the show and her advocacy off-screen, she continues to be a beacon of hope for survivors everywhere, shining a light on stories that deserve to be told.