Since her TV debut as Detective Olivia Benson in 1999, Mariska Hargitay has captivated audiences and become one of television’s highest-paid actresses. With over two decades on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU), Hargitay has not only achieved critical acclaim but also amassed a significant fortune.
The Role That Changed Everything
Hargitay’s portrayal of Olivia Benson, a detective turned captain on Law & Order: SVU, has left an indelible mark on TV history. Premiering in September 1999, the show has garnered over 30 Emmys, including one for Hargitay as Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006. She made history as the first main cast member from any Law & Order series to win an Emmy.
In a 2019 interview with Parade, Hargitay reflected on the show’s longevity. “SVU resonates because it’s a path to healing and a path to survivorship,” she said. “Each week, Olivia Benson and the team depict an environment of compassion, sympathy, and justice, providing hope to those who experience shame and isolation caused by sexual violence.”
A Salary Fit for a Star
Hargitay’s compensation for Law & Order: SVU reflects her star status. According to a 2018 Forbes report, she earned $13 million for season 19, translating to approximately $540,000 per episode. This was a notable increase from her 2014 salary, which Forbes reported at $450,000 per episode, making her the second-highest-paid actress on TV that year.
From Financial Struggles to a $100 Million Net Worth
Despite her current success, Hargitay faced financial hardships before landing her iconic role. In a 2010 interview with Good Housekeeping, she revealed, “I had a house and car I didn’t want to lose. And I had a lot of credit card debt.” Financial strain led her to seek help from her then-boyfriend, who later demanded repayment of $60,000 when they broke up. Hargitay, determined to clear her debts, paid him back as soon as she could.
Today, Hargitay’s net worth is estimated at an impressive $100 million, as reported by Celebrity Net Worth. This substantial wealth includes her earnings from Law & Order: SVU and cameos in shows like Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire, and other Law & Order spinoffs. Beyond her acting career, Hargitay founded the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004, an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. By 2011, the foundation had raised over $20 million.
Personal Reflections and Advocacy
In a 2024 essay for People, Hargitay shared her personal experience with sexual assault and her resolve to end such violence. “Sexual violence persists not because of something unchangeable in our human condition; it exists because power structures allow it to happen,” she wrote. Hargitay’s advocacy highlights her commitment to changing these power structures and ensuring survivors are believed and supported.
Conclusion
Mariska Hargitay’s journey from financial struggle to becoming one of television’s most successful actresses is a testament to her talent, resilience, and dedication. Her role on Law & Order: SVU has not only brought her immense wealth but also positioned her as a powerful advocate for survivors of sexual violence. As Hargitay continues to inspire both on and off the screen, her story remains a beacon of hope and empowerment.
