Mariska Hargitay’s Early Life and Career
Mariska Hargitay was born on January 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, to parents Jayne Mansfield and Mickey Hargitay. She grew up in Los Angeles and attended the Marymount High School. She later went on to study at the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television.
Mariska began her acting career in the late 1980s, appearing in several television shows and movies. She gained recognition for her role as Detective Olivia Benson in the long-running police procedural drama Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, which she has been a part of since 1999. She has won several awards for her portrayal of the character, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe.
Mariska Hargitay’s Family Life
Mariska Hargitay’s Mother
Mariska’s mother, Jayne Mansfield, was a well-known actress and sex symbol in the 1950s and 60s. She was also a nightclub entertainer, singer, and one of the first Playboy Playmates. Jayne was tragically killed in a car accident in 1967, when Mariska was only three years old.
Mariska Hargitay’s Husband
Mariska has been married to actor Peter Hermann since 2004. The couple met on the set of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, where Peter played the recurring role of attorney Trevor Langan. They have three children together: August, Amaya, and Andrew.
Mariska Hargitay’s Children
Mariska and Peter have two biological children, August and Andrew, and one adopted daughter, Amaya. August was born in 2006, Amaya was adopted in 2011, and Andrew was born via surrogate in 2011.
Mariska Hargitay’s Other Endeavors
Mariska Hargitay’s Movies
Aside from her role on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Mariska has also appeared in several movies throughout her career. Some of her notable film roles include appearances in Leaving Las Vegas, Lake Placid, and Love Guru.
Mariska Hargitay’s Activism
Mariska is an advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. In 2004, she founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides support and resources to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. The foundation also works to educate the public about these issues and advocate for policy changes.
Mariska Hargitay’s Instagram
Mariska is active on social media, particularly on Instagram. She often shares photos and updates from her personal life, as well as information about her advocacy work and the Joyful Heart Foundation. Her Instagram handle is @therealmariskahargitay.