A true mark of an actor’s skill is their ability to make the audience forget they’re watching a performance. Sometimes this magic stems from raw talent, while other times it’s because the actor shares real-life similarities with the character they portray.
After 21 seasons, Mariska Hargitay has become so synonymous with Olivia Benson that it’s difficult to imagine her in any other role. Hargitay, an experienced actress with over three decades in the industry, undoubtedly has immense talent. However, her profound connection to her Law & Order: SVU character may be influenced by her personal experiences, enabling her to bring an authentic depth to the on-screen persona we’ve come to admire.
It feels like only yesterday that NBC premiered the Law & Order spinoff centered around New York City’s Special Victims Unit. Remarkably, the show has been on air for over 20 years. Hargitay’s role as Captain Olivia Benson, leading her team in investigating sexual assault cases, has been a cornerstone of the series. One of the show’s key draws is its basis on real-life cases, providing a compelling and often harrowing look at the complexities of these crimes.
Law & Order: SVU, like its predecessor, balances the emotional weight of its cases with the intricate personal lives of its detectives. This blend results in an award-winning drama with a massive following. As the show enters its 22nd season, it shows no signs of slowing down, having been renewed for three more years and continuing to be a top performer for the network.
Olivia Benson is not just the leader of her team; she is the heart and soul of the Special Victims Unit. A strong woman and a powerful advocate for sexual assault victims, Olivia’s own past traumas allow her to empathize deeply with victims and offer invaluable guidance, making her an essential part of the team.
Hargitay, daughter of actor Mickey Hargitay and the late Jayne Mansfield, began her career competing in Miss California (her father was Mr. Universe) before transitioning to acting. In 2004, she married actor Peter Hermann, whom she met on the set of SVU.
While she is best known for her role on SVU, Hargitay has also appeared in ER, Can’t Hurry Love, and Prince Street. Today, she holds the distinction of playing the longest-running character on a live-action primetime television show.
Hargitay’s portrayal of Olivia Benson is marked by vulnerability and honesty. Her deep connection to the character goes beyond the screen. In 2004, Hargitay trained as a crisis rape counselor and founded the Joyful Heart Foundation to support victims of sexual assault. Since SVU began in 1999, she has dedicated herself to connecting with fans and victims who reach out to her, becoming a fierce advocate for sexual trauma survivors.
Hargitay’s commitment to her role is evident in her constant pursuit of doing more. When she learned about the backlog of rape kits across the country, she made it her foundation’s mission to address this injustice.
Some roles seem destined for certain actors, and there is no doubt that Mariska Hargitay was born to play Olivia Benson. Through her impactful work both on and off the screen, it’s clear that she understands and appreciates the profound significance of her role.
