At the 2022 People’s Choice Awards, Mariska Hargitay took home the prestigious Drama TV Star of the Year accolade for her iconic role in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Her acceptance speech was a powerful and emotional moment that left a lasting impact on everyone in the room.
Hargitay began with palpable gratitude, “What an unbelievable honor this is. I’m deeply moved, not just because of the award itself but because of the profound connection I share with all of you, my fans. This bond is deeply personal and significant to me because it represents the collective struggles and triumphs we endure together. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Reflecting on her role as Captain Olivia Benson, she continued, “This award holds even greater meaning for me because of the two words in its title: ‘People’ and ‘Choice.’ These words perfectly capture what makes this journey so remarkable. ‘People’ embodies every individual—regardless of origin, ethnicity, creed, gender, or identity—who contributes to the vibrant tapestry of humanity. And ‘Choice’ is equally important. It symbolizes our shared power to embrace kindness, compassion, and bravery. It’s about choosing to listen, to learn, and to build bridges over our differences. In these times, such choices are more crucial than ever.”
Hargitay’s words echoed a universal truth, highlighting the essence of humanity and the importance of making compassionate choices. Her speech wasn’t just a moment of celebration but a heartfelt call to action, inspiring everyone to uphold the values of empathy and unity.
As Mariska Hargitay took in the applause and admiration from her peers and fans alike, it was clear that her impact extends far beyond the screen. Congratulations to Mariska Hargitay for her well-deserved recognition and for continually using her platform to champion values that resonate deeply with so many.
