Mariska Hargitay has stayed with Law & Order: SVU for 25 years, and the emotional reason behind her dedication goes far beyond just acting. She opened up about how the show helps survivors of sexual violence, and why she feels so connected to the cause. Read on to discover why she’s remained committed to the series for over two decades.
Mariska Hargitay’s 25-Year Commitment to SVU: A Journey of Purpose
For over 25 years, Mariska Hargitay has brought the character of Olivia Benson to life on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. While her dedication to the series is well-known, the true reason behind her commitment is one that is often difficult to talk about. During her acceptance speech at the inaugural Gotham TV Awards, Hargitay revealed a deeply personal reason for staying with SVU for so long: her desire to make a difference in the lives of survivors of sexual violence.
In her heartfelt speech, Hargitay shared that her work on SVU is not just about playing a role—it’s about giving survivors a voice. “The biggest thing for me is that I get to work every day on a show that makes people feel less alone,” Hargitay said, explaining how SVU has created a platform to help break the silence surrounding difficult topics like sexual assault and domestic violence.
Hargitay emphasized the emotional and psychological toll that trauma can take on survivors, particularly the isolation they experience. “One of the most devastating effects on sexual assault and domestic violence is the isolation,” she said. For Hargitay, SVU has become a way to combat that isolation, offering both a platform for survivors’ stories and a means of healing.
Why Hargitay Has Stayed with SVU for 25 Years: A Personal Mission
Mariska Hargitay’s dedication to SVU goes beyond the glitz and glamour of television fame. It stems from a deeply rooted personal mission to shed light on issues of sexual violence, healing, and justice. As Olivia Benson, Hargitay portrays a character who is not only empathetic but also relentless in her pursuit of justice for victims. The character’s resilience and compassion resonate with Hargitay because she feels that the show provides an important service: helping survivors of trauma find a voice and healing.
The emotional weight of SVU is undeniable, and Hargitay shared that the show’s focus on survivors—especially those who have been marginalized or ignored—keeps her motivated. “It’s a show that tells survivors’ stories,” she said, underscoring the importance of shining a light on these difficult issues. By staying with SVU, Hargitay has been able to play an integral part in raising awareness and creating conversations around sexual assault, domestic violence, and victim advocacy.
This personal mission aligns with Hargitay’s efforts off-screen as well. Through the Joyful Heart Foundation, which she founded, Hargitay has worked tirelessly to support survivors and bring attention to the legal and social barriers they face. The foundation provides services like counseling, legal assistance, and advocacy, and Hargitay’s commitment to these causes mirrors her role on SVU.
Olivia Benson: More Than Just a Character
Over the years, Hargitay has poured her heart into portraying Olivia Benson, a character who has become synonymous with compassion and justice. Olivia Benson’s journey has evolved along with societal conversations surrounding sexual violence, and Hargitay has taken pride in her role as an advocate for survivors. In her speech, Hargitay mentioned how much she loves playing Benson because of the character’s balance of “outrage, compassion, strength, and vulnerability.”
Benson’s character has become a symbol of hope for many survivors who see their struggles reflected in the stories told on SVU. Whether it’s advocating for victims in court or providing them with a sense of safety, Olivia Benson’s actions consistently demonstrate the message that survivors matter. Hargitay has made it clear that, through her work on SVU, she aims to give survivors the opportunity to reclaim their voices and find healing in the process.
It’s no surprise, then, that Hargitay has stayed so long with SVU. The character of Olivia Benson represents the very issues Hargitay cares about most deeply, and this connection to the role has kept her grounded in her mission to advocate for those whose stories often go untold.
The Power of Telling Survivors’ Stories: A Legacy of Healing
As SVU enters its 26th season, Hargitay’s commitment to the show and to its mission is stronger than ever. Over the course of 25 seasons, SVU has made significant cultural and social impacts by shining a light on the difficult topics of sexual assault and domestic violence. Hargitay’s decision to stay with the show for so long isn’t just about the milestones or the accolades—it’s about the power of storytelling and its ability to heal.
Mariska Hargitay has long been a vocal advocate for survivors’ rights, both on-screen as Olivia Benson and off-screen through her foundation. Her efforts to bring these difficult issues into the public eye have contributed to important societal shifts in how we talk about sexual violence and trauma. As SVU continues to tell these crucial stories, Hargitay remains committed to the show’s core mission: giving survivors the strength to speak out and showing the world that they are not alone.
Continuing the Fight for Justice and Healing
Mariska Hargitay’s 25-year journey with Law & Order: SVU is a testament to her unwavering commitment to survivors and to breaking the silence around sexual violence. Through her work on the show and her efforts with the Joyful Heart Foundation, Hargitay has made a profound impact on the way we understand and respond to these issues. For Hargitay, staying with SVU is not just a career choice—it’s a deeply personal mission to provide a platform for survivors, ensure their voices are heard, and bring attention to the healing process.
As SVU continues its legacy, Hargitay’s passion for the cause remains stronger than ever. If you’re inspired by her work, consider learning more about survivor advocacy and how you can support those who have been affected by sexual violence.
Every voice matters, and together, we can continue the fight for justice and healing.
