Mariska Hargitay has hinted that her return for Law & Order: SVU Season 27 is “highly unlikely” due to her mental health condition resurfacing. The actress opens up about her struggles and how they impact her career decisions, leaving fans concerned about her future on the show.
Mariska Hargitay Opens Up About Her Mental Health
Beloved actress Mariska Hargitay, known for her iconic role as Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, has long been a symbol of strength on and off-screen. However, in a recent interview, she revealed that her return for Season 27 might not happen. The reason? Her mental health condition, which she thought was behind her, has unexpectedly resurfaced.
Hargitay has always been candid about her mental health journey, speaking openly about the pressures of a demanding career and the emotional toll of portraying such an intense character. She explained how playing Detective Benson for over two decades has been both a privilege and a challenge.
“Being Benson is one of the greatest honors of my life,” Hargitay shared. “But the weight of her stories, combined with my own personal challenges, has made it harder to keep going. My mental health is something I’ve fought to protect, and right now, it needs my attention more than ever.”
The Emotional Toll of Playing Detective Benson
For 26 seasons, Mariska Hargitay has brought Detective Benson to life, tackling sensitive and often heart-wrenching storylines that resonate deeply with audiences. While the role has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, it has also demanded an emotional depth that can be draining over time.
Hargitay admitted that embodying Benson’s relentless fight for justice has impacted her own emotional well-being. “You can’t take on these kinds of stories without carrying some of it with you,” she said.
The actress also highlighted the unique pressure of maintaining such a long-running role. With over 500 episodes under her belt, she reflected on how the intensity of her work has affected her mental health. “It’s not just the scripts—it’s the expectations, the schedule, and the weight of doing justice to these stories,” Hargitay explained.
Her candid remarks have sparked a wave of support from fans and colleagues, many of whom have praised her for prioritizing her mental health and opening up about the challenges of balancing a demanding career with personal well-being.
What This Means for Law & Order: SVU
Mariska Hargitay’s potential departure from SVU raises questions about the future of the show. As the heart and soul of the series, Hargitay’s portrayal of Olivia Benson has been a cornerstone of its success. Fans have expressed concern about whether the show could continue without her.
While no official decisions have been made, Hargitay emphasized that her health will always come first. “I never want to let the fans down, but I also need to take care of myself. Right now, I’m listening to my heart and my body, and they’re telling me to slow down.”
Producers of SVU have shown their support for Hargitay, expressing gratitude for her dedication to the series. In a statement, they acknowledged the immense contributions she’s made to the show and reassured fans that her well-being is the top priority.
Despite the uncertainty, Hargitay hasn’t ruled out returning in some capacity. “This isn’t goodbye forever,” she said. “It’s just me taking a step back to ensure I can continue giving my best, whether it’s as Benson or in another role down the line.
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