Mariska Hargitay is one of the most celebrated actresses in Hollywood today, best known for her iconic role as Olivia Benson on the long-running series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." Her incredible talent and dedication have made her a household name. But how old is Mariska Hargitay, and what makes her journey so remarkable? Let’s dive into her life, career, and achievements.

Beyond her acting prowess, Mariska has become an advocate for important social causes, particularly those related to sexual violence and women's rights. Her personal life and professional accomplishments have made her an influential figure in the entertainment industry. Understanding her age, background, and milestones provides insight into the woman behind the screen.

In this article, we will explore Mariska Hargitay's age, her early life, career highlights, and the impact she has made both on and off-screen. If you're curious about her journey, this is the perfect place to start. Let’s uncover the fascinating story of Mariska Hargitay.

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Biography of Mariska Hargitay

Before we delve into how old Mariska Hargitay is, let’s take a closer look at her biography. Born on January 23, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, Mariska grew up in a family deeply rooted in the arts. Her parents, Jayne Mansfield and Mickey Hargitay, were both actors, which influenced her path toward a career in entertainment.

Early Life and Family Background

Mariska Hargitay’s early life was anything but ordinary. Growing up as the daughter of a famous actress and bodybuilder, she was exposed to the world of show business from a young age. Her mother, Jayne Mansfield, was a prominent figure in Hollywood during the 1950s and 1960s, while her father, Mickey Hargitay, was a Mr. Universe titleholder and actor.

Born: January 23, 1964
Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
Parents: Jayne Mansfield (mother) and Mickey Hargitay (father)

How Old is Mariska Hargitay?

Mariska Hargitay was born on January 23, 1964, making her **59 years old** as of 2023. Her age has not diminished her passion for acting or her commitment to advocacy work. In fact, she continues to inspire audiences with her performances and dedication to important causes.

Age in Relation to Her Career

At 59, Mariska remains a central figure in the entertainment industry. Her longevity in acting is a testament to her talent and resilience. Despite the challenges faced by actors as they age, she has maintained a thriving career, proving that age is just a number when it comes to talent and hard work.

Mariska Hargitay's Career Highlights

Mariska began her acting career at a young age, appearing in several films and TV shows throughout her childhood. However, it was her role as Detective Olivia Benson on "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" that catapulted her to international fame. The show, which premiered in 1999, became one of the longest-running primetime dramas in American television history.

Iconic Role as Olivia Benson

Mariska’s portrayal of Olivia Benson earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards, including an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and multiple Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards. Her character’s strength, empathy, and dedication to justice resonated deeply with audiences, making her a beloved figure in the industry.

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Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (2006)
Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Drama (2005)

Personal Life and Family

Beyond her career, Mariska Hargitay leads a fulfilling personal life. She is married to actor Peter Hermann, and together they have three children. Her family life serves as a source of inspiration and balance in her busy professional schedule.

Children and Family

Mariska and Peter Hermann share three children: daughter Haylie Hermann and twins Amaré and August Hermann. Her family often appears in interviews and public appearances, showcasing her commitment to balancing work and family life.

Achievements and Advocacy Work

Mariska Hargitay is not only known for her acting but also for her advocacy work. She is a passionate advocate for survivors of sexual violence and has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and support for this cause.

Founding the Joyful Heart Foundation

In 2004, Mariska founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to healing, educating, and empowering survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. Through her foundation, she has made significant strides in addressing these critical issues.

Recipient of the National Organization for Women (NOW) Women of Courage Award (2010)
Honored with the Human Rights Campaign Equality Award (2018)

Fun Facts About Mariska Hargitay

Here are some interesting facts about Mariska Hargitay that you might not know:

She was named after the Hungarian folk dance "Csárdás," which her father loved.
Mariska was the youngest of Jayne Mansfield’s five children.
She has a passion for interior design and has renovated several historic homes.

Mariska Hargitay's Impact on Pop Culture

Mariska’s influence extends beyond her acting career. Her portrayal of Olivia Benson has left a lasting impact on pop culture, inspiring countless fans and aspiring actors. Her dedication to her craft and advocacy work has made her a role model for many.

Influence on Young Actors

Mariska has mentored numerous young actors and encouraged them to pursue their dreams. Her commitment to excellence and authenticity has set a high standard for actors in the industry.

Data and Statistics About Mariska Hargitay

Here are some key statistics about Mariska Hargitay:

Years Active: Over 40 years
Awards Won: More than 20 major awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe
Episodes of "Law & Order: SVU": Over 450 episodes as of 2023

Source: IMDb, Official Website of Mariska Hargitay

How Has Mariska Hargitay's Age Affected Her Career?

Mariska Hargitay’s age has not been a barrier to her career. On the contrary, it has enriched her performances and added depth to her roles. Her ability to portray complex characters with authenticity has kept her relevant in the industry for decades.

Challenging Ageism in Hollywood

Mariska has been vocal about challenging ageism in Hollywood. She believes that age should not define an actor’s capabilities and has proven this through her continued success in the industry.

Conclusion

In summary, Mariska Hargitay is a remarkable actress whose career and personal life exemplify dedication, passion, and resilience. Born on January 23, 1964, she is currently 59 years old and continues to inspire audiences worldwide. Her role as Olivia Benson on "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" has earned her numerous accolades and a place in television history.

Beyond her acting, Mariska’s advocacy work through the Joyful Heart Foundation has made a significant impact on society. Her commitment to important causes and her influence on pop culture make her a true icon in the entertainment industry.

We invite you to share your thoughts and questions about Mariska Hargitay in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore other articles on our website for more insights into the world of entertainment and beyond!