Mariska Hargitay

Mariska Hargitay is an American actress, producer, director, and philanthropist, renowned for her impactful portrayal of Olivia Benson on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and her advocacy for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. After securing the lead role of Detective Olivia Benson in NBC’s ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ in 1999, Mariska Hargitay quickly became renowned for her impactful portrayal of the tough yet compassionate detective. Her groundbreaking work on the series earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Drama in 2004 and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006. In 2019, her character, Olivia Benson, achieved the distinction of becoming the longest-running character in American primetime drama history.

Throughout her career, Hargitay has consistently championed impactful storytelling and advocacy, solidifying her status as a leading voice in both entertainment and social justice. Her commitment to human rights and her relentless work with the Joyful Heart Foundation continue to garner recognition, with an upcoming feature on the TIME100 Philanthropy list in 2025. As an actress, producer, and director, Hargitay remains at the forefront of creating meaningful content that resonates with audiences and drives positive change.