Mariska Hargitay

Mariska Magdolna Hargitay (born January 23, 1964) is an American actress, director, and producer. She is the daughter of actress Jayne Mansfield and bodybuilder Mickey Hargitay. Hargitay is best known for her role as Detective Olivia Benson on the NBC television series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999–present), for which she has received numerous awards, including a Golden Globe Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award.

Hargitay was born in Santa Monica, California, and raised in Los Angeles. She began her acting career in the early 1980s, with roles in films such as Ghoulies (1985) and Welcome to 18 (1986). She also had a recurring role on the television series Falcon Crest (1984–1986). In 1999, Hargitay was cast as Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. The series follows the lives of the detectives of the Special Victims Unit of the New York City Police Department, who investigate crimes involving sexual assault, child abuse, and domestic violence. Hargitay has received critical acclaim for her performance as Benson, and has been praised for her portrayal of a strong and compassionate character.

In addition to her work on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Hargitay has also directed and produced several episodes of the series. She has also appeared in films such as Leaving Las Vegas (1995), Lake Placid (1999), and Perfume (2001). In 2004, she founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides support to survivors of sexual assault.

Hargitay is a vocal advocate for victims of sexual assault and has used her platform to raise awareness of the issue. She has also spoken out against gun violence and has been a supporter of gun control measures. Hargitay is a member of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and the Screen Actors Guild. She has also been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Mariska Hargitay is a talented and accomplished actress, director, and producer. She is best known for her role as Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, for which she has received numerous awards. Hargitay is a vocal advocate for victims of sexual assault and has used her platform to raise awareness of the issue. She is also a member of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and the Screen Actors Guild.