Mariska Hargitay has shared the screen with many guest stars over the years on Law & Order: SVU, but one of the most memorable experiences for her was working with rapper Snoop Dogg. In a candid interview, Hargitay recounted the hilarious time she had on set with the iconic musician.
Initially, Hargitay was slated for a different career path. She was in the midst of a development deal for her own comedy show when the script for Law & Order: SVU landed in her hands. Despite the dark subject matter, which her agent warned her about, Hargitay felt an undeniable connection to the role of Olivia Benson.
“I read the script and I knew in my gut that I had to do this role,” she told Stephen Colbert. “I got chills after reading the script and I knew I had to move forward with the audition.”
When it came to working with Snoop Dogg, Hargitay was instantly impressed by his off-screen accomplishments, including his charity work and his football league. “He’s doing amazing things in the world and he’s just Snoop, which is the coolest thing ever,” she said.
Hargitay thoroughly enjoyed acting alongside the rapper. “I’m arresting him, I’m giving him the old one-two, as I like to say. And I think we’re besties,” she quipped.
Hargitay decided to share a fun idea with Snoop Dogg. Inspired by her co-star, she thought up a rap line: “Double O-G in the 1 PP,” referring to Snoop Dogg being at One Police Plaza, the NYPD headquarters.
Thinking it was a genius line, she eagerly went to Snoop Dogg’s trailer to share it with him. However, her excitement was met with confusion. After she delivered the line, Snoop Dogg gave her a blank stare and said, “I don’t know what that is.” Despite the awkward moment, they shared a laugh and a hug. “I was like 97 years old in that moment, and I’m OK with it,” Hargitay joked.
Hargitay’s acting career began with her debut in the 1984 movie Ghoulies, where she played the character Donna. She then became a series regular in the drama Downtown, portraying Jesse Smith from 1986 to 1987. In 1988, she had a recurring role as Carly Fixx in Falcon Crest. Hargitay is also known for her roles in Prince Street, ER, and Can’t Hurry Love, before joining the cast of Law & Order: SVU in 1999.
Snoop Dogg’s rise to fame began with the formation of the group 213 alongside Nate Dogg and Warren G. They sold over 500 homemade tapes, catching the attention of Dr. Dre, who invited Snoop Dogg to rap on his album. Snoop Dogg contributed significantly to Dr. Dre’s The Chronic album, and in 1993, he released his first solo album, Doggy Style, under Death Row Records.
This collaboration between Hargitay and Snoop Dogg on SVU not only provided fans with memorable television but also left Hargitay with a unique and amusing story to tell.
