This summer, Mariska Hargitay and Peter Hermann celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary, a milestone that underscores the strength and vitality of their enduring romance. When asked how she keeps their marriage so “fresh,” Hargitay revealed to Jenna Bush Hager on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna that it’s all about her perspective on their relationship.
“I’m at a point in my life where it just keeps getting better with him. And marriage is not always like this,” Hargitay shared, motioning an upward trajectory with her hand. “But, I have learned so much.” She added, “Peter always says this beautiful quote about … breaking through marriage into marriage. And that is what I think we’ve lived because at this time in my life, I feel very different than I have for the last maybe 15 or 18 years — and I feel assured in our love.”
A Chance Meeting and Instant Connection
Hargitay and Hermann’s love story began in 2001 when Hermann guest-starred on Law & Order: SVU. Hargitay, who plays Captain Olivia Benson, was immediately struck by Hermann, describing their first encounter as “distracting” because of his handsomeness. “Who is that Clark Gable Superman guy that I need to marry today?” she recalled thinking.
Their first date was an unconventional yet deeply meaningful one. Months after their initial meeting, Hermann invited Hargitay to church. Hargitay was moved to tears during the sermon, not from the religious setting but from the profound connection she felt with Hermann. “I cried because I was feeling something that I’d never felt before, but I kind of knew what it was,” she said.
The Journey to Forever
In August 2004, Hargitay and Hermann tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in Santa Barbara, California, in front of 200 guests. Reflecting on their relationship in a 2019 interview, Hargitay expressed, “We both knew we found the right one. I never thought it could be this good, and I never knew that I’d be reminded on the journey, that I’d marry the right one. It’s better than I thought it was.”
Their family grew with the birth of their first child, August, in 2006. Hargitay’s excitement about becoming a mother was palpable, “Nobody wanted to be pregnant more than me,” she told SELF magazine. Their parenting journey only deepened their compassion and empathy for others.
Embracing Adoption and Expanding the Family
In 2011, Hargitay and Hermann adopted their daughter Amaya and, just months later, their son Andrew. Describing the joy of Amaya’s arrival, Hargitay said, “From the minute she was born, she was just surprisingly alert and so full of love.” The couple’s decision to adopt reflected their openness to building a family in diverse ways, embracing a multi-racial family dynamic with gratitude and love.
Andrew’s adoption came unexpectedly but felt divinely right. “It was like a miracle. I’ve never made a bigger decision so quickly,” Hargitay shared. Their family, now complete, radiates joy and unity. “We’re so beautifully and surprisingly in sync about something so huge,” she said.
Celebrating Love and Longevity
In August 2022, the couple celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary, with Hargitay sharing heartfelt photos on Instagram, captioning them, “Eighteen years. Grateful. In love. Together.”
Reflecting on their enduring love, Hargitay emphasized the lessons she’s learned from their relationship. “I’m at a point in my life where it just keeps getting better with him. And marriage is not always like this,” she reiterated. Her journey with Hermann has been one of continuous growth, deepening love, and unwavering commitment, proving that true love not only endures but flourishes over time.
