Mariska Hargitay: A Deep Dive Into Her Life & Career!
Ever wondered what makes Mariska Hargitay so compelling, both on and off screen? It's the fascinating blend of her heritage, experiences, and unwavering dedication that shapes her into the icon she is today.
Mariska Hargitay, an American actress, producer, and philanthropist, was born on January 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California. Her birth name is Mariska Magdolna Hargitay. The city of Los Angeles and the broader state of California have played significant roles in her life, from her upbringing to her burgeoning career. She is best known for her role as Detective Olivia Benson on NBC's "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" (SVU), a character she has portrayed since 1999. This role has not only defined a significant part of her career but has also allowed her to become a powerful advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Mariska attended Marymount High School in Los Angeles before enrolling in the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. She left UCLA before completing her degree to pursue acting. Mariska speaks several languages including english, hungarian, french, spanish, and italian.
Mariska Hargitay Biographical and Professional Information | |
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Full Name | Mariska Magdolna Hargitay |
Birth Date | January 23, 1964 |
Birth Place | Santa Monica, California, United States |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Caucasian (Hungarian and German Descent) |
Occupation | Actress, Producer, Philanthropist |
Years Active | 1984present |
Known For | Her role as Detective Olivia Benson on "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" |
Spouse | Peter Hermann (married in 2004) |
Children | August Miklos Friedrich Hermann, Amaya Josephine Hermann, Andrew Nicolas Hargitay Hermann |
Parents | Mickey Hargitay (father) and Jayne Mansfield (mother) |
Education | Marymount High School, UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television (did not graduate) |
Languages | English, Hungarian, French, Spanish, Italian |
Activism | Founder of the Joyful Heart Foundation, advocate for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse |
Website | The Joyful Heart Foundation |
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