When you see the familiar face of Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, it’s easy to forget the girl who once navigated Hollywood’s chaotic halls as the daughter of a screen legend. Mariska Magdolna Hargitay, now 61, carries a childhood story that’s as memorable as her long-running TV role, but full of tender, lesser-known truths that shaped her path.
Born on January 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, Mariska grew up between glamour and grief. Her mother, Hollywood icon Jayne Mansfield, died tragically in a car crash when Mariska was just three years old. Raised by bodybuilder and actor Mickey Hargitay and his wife Ellen Siano, she grew up believing Mickey was her biological father—until adulthood brought a surprising truth.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Mariska Magdolna Hargitay |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | January 23, 1964 |
| Age | 61 years |
| Birthplace | Santa Monica, California, USA |
| Height | 5 ft 7.7 in (172 cm) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Parents | Jayne Mansfield, Nelson Sardelli |
| Legal Father | Mickey Hargitay |
| Spouse | Peter Hermann |
| Children | August, Amaya, Andrew |
| Net Worth | $100 million |
| Notable Role | Detective Olivia Benson (Law & Order: SVU) |
| Foundation | Joyful Heart Foundation |
A Life-Changing Revelation
The revelation that her biological father is entertainer Nelson Sardelli was so powerful it inspired her to create an HBO documentary, My Mom Jayne. This film, her directorial debut, premiered in Cannes in 2025 and explores her own search for identity, healing, and creative legacy.
Teenage Years and Early Beauty Pageants
She blossomed into her teenage years, touched by her mother’s star quality. In 1982, a young Mariska won Miss Beverly Hills USA, placing fourth in the Miss California contest. Standing tall at about 5 ft 7.7 in (172 cm), with dark brown hair and expressive eyes, she embodied classic California beauty.
Early Career in Acting
Her early adult years brought small roles in TV and film—debuting in the mid-1980s. You might recognize her from the music video “She Loves My Car” or the cult horror-comedy Ghoulies. But in 1999, at age 35, fate turned decisively: she landed the role of Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU—a role that redefined her career and became the longest-running character in American primetime drama history.
Career Achievements and Activism
Over two decades as Benson earned her widespread respect and prestigious awards—an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in 2006 and a Golden Globe in 2005, among many others. Off-camera, her heart led her to found the Joyful Heart Foundation, a charity supporting survivors of sexual assault and violence—a powerful extension of her on-screen empathy.
Personal Life
Her personal life is as full as her career. She married actor Peter Hermann in 2004 after meeting on the SVU set. Together, they have three children: August, born in 2006, and two adopted children, Amaya and Andrew, welcomed in 2011.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Today, Mariska is estimated to have a net worth of around $100 million, much of it from SVU, where she reportedly earns $500,000 per episode, translating into $11 million annually—rising to $13–15 million with bonuses. Despite her success, she remains grounded, balancing work and family, often spotted enjoying simple pleasures from beach vacations in Italy to quiet time at home.
Fun Facts
Fun facts about Mariska reveal her depth: she discovered her real father at 25 but waited decades to share it publicly; she has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded in 2013; and her charity work includes producing I Am Evidence, a documentary that won a News & Documentary Emmy in 2017.
Closing Reflection
In short, Mariska Hargitay’s early life—marked by loss, secrecy, and quiet strength—laid the foundation for a remarkable career built on empathy, authenticity, and resilience. Her younger years weren’t just a backdrop; they were the roots of a star who continues to shine both on screen and in real life.
READ MORE: Pamela Anderson Young: The Early Years of a Hollywood Legend
FAQs
How old is Mariska Hargitay now?
She is 61 years old, born on January 23, 1964.
Who are Mariska Hargitay’s parents?
Her mother was Jayne Mansfield, her legal father was Mickey Hargitay, and her biological father is Nelson Sardelli.
What is Mariska Hargitay’s height?
She stands at 5 ft 7.7 in (172 cm).
How much is Mariska Hargitay worth?
Her estimated net worth is around $100 million.
Is Mariska Hargitay married?
Yes, she has been married to actor Peter Hermann since 2004.
