
Mariska Hargitay is an American actress, producer, and philanthropist. Marriska Hargitay was born on January 23, 1964, making her 62 years old as of 2026. She was born in Santa Monica, California, USA. Holding American nationality, she is of Hungarian descent through her father. Her zodiac sign is Aquarius. Her mother was the legendary actress and 1955 Miss Universe Jayne Mansfield, and her father was bodybuilder and actor Mickey Hargitay.
Tragically, her mother died in a car crash on June 29, 1967, when Mariska was just 3 years old; she was in the car during the accident but survived with only minor injuries. Raised primarily by her father in Los Angeles, she has three half-siblings from her father’s other marriages and one full brother, Miklós, who died in infancy. Mariska attended Marymount High School, a Catholic girls’ school in Los Angeles, and later studied theater at UCLA but left to pursue acting full-time.
Personal Details
| Full Name | Mariska Magdolna Hargitay |
| Nickname | Marish |
| Profession | Actress, Producer, Philanthropist |
| Date of Birth | 23 January 1964 |
| Age | 62 |
| Birthplace | Santa Monica, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Raised Catholic |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
| Friends | Ice La Fox |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Qualification | Attended UCLA (did not complete degree) |
Career
Mariska Hargitay began acting in the early 1980s with small roles in films and television, including Ghoulies (1985) and guest spots on Falcon Crest and Kate & Allie. She gained early attention in the comedy film Can’t Stop the Music (1980) alongside her father. Her breakthrough came in 1999 when she was cast as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. The role earned her widespread acclaim, multiple Emmy nominations (winning in 2006), and a Golden Globe.
She has appeared in over 500 episodes of SVU as of 2026, making her one of the longest-running scripted drama characters in television history. She has also appeared in films such as Leaving Las Vegas (1995), Lake Placid (1999), Perfume (2001), and produced projects through her company, Harpo Productions (no relation to Oprah). Her advocacy work through Joyful Heart (founded 2004) has become a central part of her public identity. As of 2026, she continues starring in SVU and remains active in producing and philanthropy.
Personal Life
Mariska Hargitay married actor and fellow Law & Order alum Peter Hermann on August 28, 2004. They have three children: August Miklos Friedrich Hermann (born 2006), Amaya Josephine Hermann (adopted 2011), and Andrew Nicolas Hargitay Hermann (adopted 2011). The couple has been open about their adoption journey and commitment to family.
Mariska is a devoted mother and often speaks about balancing her demanding career with parenting. She is a vocal advocate for mental health, trauma recovery, and survivor support through Joyful Heart. Her hobbies include yoga, reading, spending time with family, and supporting animal welfare causes.
Physical Appearance
| Height | 5 feet 7¾ inches (172 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 60–63 kg (132–139 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Body Type | Athletic / Slim |
| Body Measurements | Approx. 36-27-36 inches (in prime) |
| Shoe Size | 9 US |
| Bra Size | [Unknown] |
Mariska Hargitay Net Worth 2026
Mariska Hargitay’s estimated net worth is approximately $100 million USD. Her wealth primarily comes from:
- Long-term salary from Law & Order: SVU (reportedly $500,000+ per episode in later seasons)
- Producing credits and backend deals
- Endorsements and speaking engagements
- Real estate investments
- Royalties from earlier work and the SVU franchise
Social Media Presence
- Instagram — @mariskahargitay
- X (Twitter) — @MariskaHargitay
FAQs
Who is Mariska Hargitay?
Mariska Hargitay is an American actress best known for playing Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit since 1999.
How old is Mariska Hargitay?
She is 62 years old, born on July 23, 1964.
What is Mariska Hargitay’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is approximately $100 million USD.
Is Mariska Hargitay married?
Yes, she has been married to actor Peter Hermann since 2004. They have three children.





