Mariska Hargitay’s iconic outfit as Capt. Olivia Benson from *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit* is now a piece of American history. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History has officially added Hargitay’s detective costume to its collection. The ensemble, which includes a navy blazer, dark jeans, a gold detective’s shield, a belt, boots, and earrings, was worn by Hargitay in the episode “Third Man Syndrome” from the show’s 25th season.
The ceremony, held on Monday, saw Hargitay and *Law & Order* creator Dick Wolf in attendance. Hargitay, who has been open about her own experiences with sexual assault and her work through the Joyful Heart Foundation, expressed that the donation represents more than just a TV costume. It’s a symbol of the importance of listening to survivors of sexual violence, domestic abuse, and child abuse.
Hargitay highlighted the significance of the display during her speech: “It is my profound hope that what is being enshrined here with this donation is the act of listening,” she said. The addition of the costume to the museum’s collection aligns with the museum’s mission to provide spaces for meaningful conversations and advocacy.
The Smithsonian has long aimed to include an item from the *Law & Order* franchise, given its cultural impact and longevity. The museum’s Elizabeth MacMillan Director, Anthea M. Hartig, noted that the donation complements the museum’s recent exhibition, “Forensic Science on Trial,” which explores the use of science in legal processes, including sexual assault examination kits.
Hargitay’s Joyful Heart Foundation has been instrumental in addressing the backlog of untested rape kits and advocating for survivors’ rights. Hargitay’s personal experience and advocacy work have been central to her efforts, including a report released by the foundation in 2016 recommending how to handle and notify survivors about tested kits.
At the ceremony, Hargitay also made a small but significant adjustment to the costume, requesting that the badge be positioned closer to the belt buckle, reflecting the attention to detail she has brought to her portrayal of Benson over the years. The costume’s addition to the Smithsonian is a testament to Hargitay’s dedication to her role and her advocacy work, and it ensures that Capt. Olivia Benson’s legacy continues to inspire discussions on justice and compassion.
