Mariska Hargitay: Star, Director, and Visionary of Law & Order: SVU
Law & Order: SVU star Mariska Hargitay has not only been the face of the series but also taken on the role of director for several episodes. Her transition behind the camera has garnered admiration from her colleagues, including actor Kevin Kane.
Kevin Kane on Mariska Hargitay’s Directorial Prowess
Kevin Kane, known for his recurring role as Detective Terry Bruno on Law & Order: SVU, has had a unique vantage point to observe Hargitay’s directing skills. Kane, who has portrayed various characters on the show over the years, recently shared his thoughts in an interview with Collider.
“It felt amazing and really unexpected,” Kane said about becoming a permanent part of SVU. “I had done an episode that Mariska directed a few years before, and I was prepping our series Life & Beth. I was on a director scout in New Orleans when they called me about this role. I said ‘yes’ immediately. I was very surprised. Being a New York actor, there’s something really special about it.”
Kane praised Hargitay’s infectious passion for directing, noting her ability to create an environment where actors feel free to explore their roles.
“There’s such a joy in her for directing,” he said. “She loves it so much that it’s so infectious and really nice to be around. You really want to explore, and she gives you the room — she makes you feel like, ‘We’ll just go for something.’ She has this way of grounding everybody and making it feel alive again, like the first time.”
Mariska Hargitay’s Directorial Journey
Hargitay first stepped into the director’s chair with the SVU episode “Criminal Stories.” Speaking to Buzzfeed, she expressed her excitement about realizing her long-time goal of directing.
“I’m thrilled to be directing,” Hargitay said. “It’s been a goal of mine for a long time, and it’s quite an experience to see it realized. My respect for the process of making this show and telling these important stories deepens with every scene we shoot. I have always been so honored to work with this cast and crew, but never more so than now, as a director collaborating in a new way.”
Her passion for directing quickly grew, prompting her to direct more episodes. When asked by TV Guide why she continued to pursue directing, Hargitay revealed her deep love for storytelling and the creative process.
“You know, I loved it. I feel like I’ve been here so long and have found certain rhythms that I find help people stay in the moment. It’s a love of telling stories, of telling the story my way and being able to shape the story. But also my love for actors and my appreciation and respect for the process. I also love helping to create an environment where I can get an actor’s best work. Just loving the creative process and finding the unexpected.”
The Impact of Directing on Hargitay’s Acting
Taking on the role of director has also influenced Hargitay’s approach to acting. The experience of observing performances from a director’s perspective has given her new insights and changed her behavior on set.
“I started reading scripts differently after directing,” Hargitay told The Paley Center for Media. “I never, ever want to be late again. When you’re in charge of everything, you look at everything differently. It’s funny how that changes your perspective.”
Mariska Hargitay’s journey from star to director on Law & Order: SVU exemplifies her versatility and dedication to her craft. Her passion for storytelling, both in front of and behind the camera, continues to inspire her colleagues and captivate audiences.
