Mariska Hargitay (born January 23, 1964) is an American actress, producer, director and activist, best known for her role as New York City sex crimes Detective Olivia Benson on on the NBC television drama Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, a role that has earned her multiple awards and nominations, including an Emmy and Golden Globe. The daughter of actress Jayne Mansfield and actor/bodybuilder Mickey Hargitay, Hargitay is a former beauty queen who made her film debut in the 1985 horror-comedy film Ghoulies, and her major television debut in the 1986 adventure drama series, Downtown. She appeared in numerous roles in film and television shows throughout the late 1980s and 1990s before being cast as Olivia Benson, a role that led to her founding the Joyful Heart Foundation, which provides support to women who have been sexually abused.
Mariska Hargitay is an American actress, producer, director, and activist born on January 23, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, USA. She is best known for her role as New York City sexual crimes detective Olivia Benson in the NBC television drama series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." This iconic role has earned her numerous awards and nominations, including prestigious honors like the Emmy and Golden Globe.
Mariska Hargitay's career breakthrough came in 1999 when she was cast as Olivia Benson. This character has had a significant impact not only in the television world but also in societal consciousness. Hargitay is also the founder of the "Joyful Heart Foundation," which supports women who have experienced sexual abuse. Early in her career, Hargitay appeared in the horror-comedy film "Ghoulies" (1985) and made her television debut in the adventure-drama series "Downtown" in 1986.
Among Mariska Hargitay's most significant works, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" stands out. Additionally, she has appeared in projects such as "Lakeview Terrace," "Goodbye Las Vegas," "Winona Ryder - The Ghosts She Called," and "30 Rock: A One-Time Special." These works showcase her acting talent and versatility.
Mariska Hargitay has won many awards throughout her career and has actively taken on a role in social issues during this time. She continues to appear in "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" and participates in efforts to raise awareness for victims of sexual violence. The answer to the question of who Mariska Hargitay is can be defined not only as an actress but also as a social figure. Mariska Hargitay's films and projects clearly demonstrate her multifaceted talents and contributions to society.
Mariska Hargitay is an American actress and producer. She is best known for her role as Olivia Benson in 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'.
Mariska Hargitay is currently 62 years old, born in 1964.
Mariska Hargitay's most well-known film is 'Leaving Las Vegas'. She starred alongside Nicolas Cage in this film.
Mariska Hargitay was born in Santa Monica, California. Her family is of Hungarian descent.
Mariska Hargitay is best known for her role as Olivia Benson in 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'. She has also guest-starred in series like 'ER' and 'The Twilight Zone'.
Emmy Nominees: "The Pitt" and "Hacks" Stand Out
2026 Emmy Nominees Announced
Historic Comeback in the NBA Finals
Spike Lee and Celebrities Witness Knicks' Historic Comeback
Mariska Hargitay's Broadway Debut Draws Great Interest
Law & Order: SVU Star Mariska Hargitay's Rape Kit Campaign Achieves Legal Success in All 50 States
Mariska Hargitay's Campaign Achieves Rape Kit Reform Across All US States
Mariska Hargitay to Direct 600th SVU Episode; Reveals She Filmed a Kissing Scene with Chris Meloni