Mariska Hargitay

Date of Birth: January 23, 1964

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: *Still alive*

Biography

Mariska Magdolna Hargitay is an acclaimed American actress, best known for her iconic role as Detective Olivia Benson on the NBC drama series “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (SVU). She was born on January 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, to Jayne Mansfield, a 1950s-era sex symbol and actress, and Mickey Hargitay, a former Mr. Universe. Growing up in a family heavily involved in show business, Mariska was naturally drawn to the performing arts. She attended UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television but left before completing her degree to pursue her acting career. Her early career consisted of minor roles in television series and films, but her big break came in 1999 when she was cast as Olivia Benson in “Law & Order: SVU.” Her performance earned her numerous awards, including a Primetime Emmy and a Golden Globe. Beyond her acting career, Mariska is also a dedicated advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. She founded the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004, which aims to support survivors and address issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.

5 Interesting Facts about Mariska Hargitay

1. Mariska Hargitay speaks five languages: English, Hungarian, French, Spanish, and Italian.

2. She is the first main cast member from any “Law & Order” series to win an Emmy for their role.

3. Mariska was once crowned Miss Beverly Hills USA in 1982.

4. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which she received in 2013.

5. Mariska survived a car accident in 1967 that tragically killed her mother, Jayne Mansfield.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Mariska Hargitay

1. “I can’t imagine my life without acting.”

2. “Survivors of abuse show us the strength of their personal spirit every day.”

3. “The longest journey is the journey inward.”

4. “I know what it means to survive, and I know what it means to not just survive but to thrive.”

5. “We all have a responsibility to create a world where everyone can thrive.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Mariska Hargitay has achieved a net worth of approximately $100 million, primarily from her long-running role on “Law & Order: SVU.”

Children

Mariska Hargitay and her husband, Peter Hermann, have three children: August Miklos Friedrich Hermann, born in 2006, and two adopted children, Amaya Josephine Hermann and Andrew Nicolas Hargitay Hermann.