Mariska Hargitay, known for her iconic role as Olivia Benson in Law & Order: SVU, has been captivating audiences for over 25 years. As the longest-running primetime drama in television history, the series has profoundly influenced Hargitay’s personal and professional life. In a candid interview with Selena Gomez for Interview magazine, Hargitay revealed the emotional toll of her work and her journey toward healing through activism.
The Weight of the Role: Secondary Trauma
Hargitay’s portrayal of Benson has been both a blessing and a burden. “When I started the show, I wasn’t aware of how deeply it would go into me,” she confessed. This profound connection to the material has led her to experience what she describes as “secondary trauma.”
Understanding Secondary Trauma
Secondary trauma occurs when individuals are indirectly exposed to traumatic experiences, often through storytelling or working with trauma survivors. Hargitay noted that her immersion in the series’ heavy subject matter has altered her perception of the world. “My husband Peter is always like, anytime I go anywhere, my first question is, ‘What’s the crime rate here?’ So it’s on the brain,” she shared. This constant awareness of violence and trauma weighs heavily on her psyche.
Coping with the Emotional Toll
There have been moments when Hargitay struggled to protect herself emotionally. The sheer volume of stories related to sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse has been overwhelming. “Those were the parts that I didn’t know how to metabolize,” she reflected. The process of understanding and coping with these themes has been a significant part of her journey on the show.
The Birth of the Joyful Heart Foundation
One way Hargitay has channeled her experiences is through the Joyful Heart Foundation, which she founded in 2004. This nonprofit organization focuses on supporting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. It has launched impactful initiatives like the End the Backlog project, aimed at addressing the issue of untested rape kits.
From Trauma to Activism
Hargitay’s work on SVU opened her eyes to the harsh realities of these issues. “I learned more about sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse than I ever had thought about,” she admitted. This newfound knowledge motivated her to take action. “When I learned the statistics, I said, ‘Why isn’t everyone talking about this?’” Her drive to educate others stems from a desire to raise awareness about these societal epidemics.
The Impact of Statistics: A Call to Action
Hargitay’s understanding of the statistics surrounding sexual violence has fueled her passion for advocacy. She recalled a pivotal moment during her first year on the show when she learned that one in three women and one in six men will experience sexual assault. This shocking information pushed her to make a difference.
Bridging Acting and Philanthropy
Reflecting on her dual roles as an actress and activist, Hargitay expressed her gratitude. “The series has surpassed my wildest dreams in terms of a career, but also in terms of personal fulfillment,” she said. The ability to combine her acting career with her philanthropic efforts allows her to contribute meaningfully to the healing of others.
The Evolution of Olivia Benson
Hargitay’s portrayal of Olivia Benson has not only impacted her life but also resonated with millions of viewers. Benson is a character who embodies strength, resilience, and compassion—qualities that Hargitay strives to uphold in her personal life.
A Role Model for Survivors
Through her character, Hargitay has become a role model for many survivors of trauma. Benson’s unwavering dedication to justice and empathy has inspired countless individuals. Hargitay’s advocacy work amplifies this impact, showing that art can be a powerful catalyst for social change.
The Connection to the Audience
Hargitay understands the emotional connection audiences have with her character. “I think about that often,” she shared, reflecting on how her work can help people feel seen and understood. Her commitment to telling these important stories contributes to a broader conversation about healing and recovery.
Conclusion: A Journey of Healing and Advocacy
Mariska Hargitay’s journey over the past 25 years on Law & Order: SVU has been both transformative and challenging. Through her experiences portraying Olivia Benson, she has become an advocate for survivors of trauma, founding the Joyful Heart Foundation to support those affected by sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. Hargitay’s dual commitment to acting and activism demonstrates the profound impact one person can have in raising awareness and fostering healing in society.
