

Mariska Hargitay: Love, Loss and Law & Order
8 snips Jun 25, 2025
Mariska Hargitay, best known as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, shares her transformative journey as both an actress and survivor. She reflects on the emotional toll of portraying a character so entwined with trauma and discusses her personal healing process. The complexities of love and loss are explored, particularly in relation to her character's dynamic with Elliot. Mariska emphasizes the power of storytelling in connecting with others and fostering understanding around sexual violence, highlighting the importance of community support.
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Tell Your Story When Ready
- Tell your story only when you feel ready and supported emotionally.
- Having the right infrastructure and support is crucial for integrating trauma into your life.
Memory Truth vs Emotional Connection
- The truth of memories matters less than the emotional connection they represent.
- Longing for lost loved ones creates ongoing avenues of connection despite unclear memories.
Mariska's Family Identity Reveal
- Mariska learned at 25 that her father Mickey was not her biological dad, which shattered her identity and family perception.
- She confronted Mickey, who denied it; she chose to accept his love despite the pain and confusion.