Mariska Hargitay has been a household name for over two decades, thanks to her iconic role as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. As the series continues into its 26th season, fans are left wondering: how long will Hargitay keep playing this beloved character? In a recent interview with E! Online, she opened up about her thoughts on her future with the role, her current fulfillment, and the challenges that come with portraying such a complex character.
Hargitay’s Commitment to Olivia Benson
Since SVU debuted in 1999, Hargitay has brought Olivia Benson to life, becoming a symbol of strength, resilience, and compassion. Her performance has garnered critical acclaim, earning her an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe nomination. But after all these years, does she still feel connected to the character?
Still Going Strong
In her recent interview, Hargitay confirmed that she’s not ready to hang up Benson’s badge anytime soon. “I have thought about that. Not yet. Just thought about it for way later,” she explained, emphasizing her openness to future possibilities while still feeling deeply engaged with the role. Hargitay is clearly not just going through the motions; she’s excited about what lies ahead for Benson.
She expressed a desire to continue challenging herself and achieving new milestones within the show. “I’m very engaged and fulfilled at SVU right now,” she said. This suggests that, for Hargitay, the character still has many layers to explore and stories to tell.
The Emotional Toll of Playing Benson
While Hargitay enjoys portraying Benson, it hasn’t always been easy. The show’s focus on sensitive and often horrific topics can take an emotional toll on its cast. Hargitay has openly discussed experiencing secondary trauma from the nature of the stories she tells.
Understanding Secondary Trauma
Secondary trauma occurs when someone is exposed to the trauma experienced by others, leading to feelings of distress and emotional pain. For Hargitay, the impact of portraying a detective who investigates real-world issues of sexual assault and violence has led to heightened awareness of crime in everyday life.
Reflecting on her experiences, she noted that her husband often hears her ask about the crime rates in different areas they visit. “When I started the show, I wasn’t aware of how deeply it would go into me,” she shared. This awareness can be both a blessing and a curse, allowing her to connect more deeply with her character and the material while also making her more vulnerable to its impact.
The Weight of Reality
Hargitay’s portrayal of Benson involves delving into traumatic stories that, while fictional, are often inspired by real events. This closeness to trauma can be overwhelming. Hargitay has admitted to struggling with how to protect herself emotionally. “There have been times when I didn’t know how to protect myself, and I think I was definitely a victim of secondary trauma,” she said. The sheer volume of these stories is something she didn’t fully anticipate when she first signed on for the role.
The Future of Law & Order: SVU
With Law & Order: SVU now in its 26th season, the show continues to evolve while tackling pressing societal issues. Hargitay’s performance remains at the heart of the series, but what does the future hold for both her and Olivia Benson?
Navigating Change
As the show progresses, changes in the cast and storytelling methods keep the series fresh. Christopher Meloni, who played Elliot Stabler alongside Hargitay, left the show in 2011 but returned in a new capacity in Law & Order: Organized Crime. This kind of evolution can open new doors for Hargitay and her character, perhaps leading to storylines that could bring even more depth to Benson’s narrative.
The Fans’ Role
The support from fans has also played a significant role in Hargitay’s dedication to her character. Viewers have shown immense loyalty and love for Olivia Benson, making her a cultural icon. This connection fuels Hargitay’s passion for the role, reminding her of the importance of the stories she’s telling.
Conclusion: Hargitay’s Future as Olivia Benson
Mariska Hargitay’s commitment to playing Olivia Benson remains strong, and she feels fulfilled in her role as the series continues to tackle complex issues. While she acknowledges the emotional challenges of portraying a character in such a heavy show, her love for the role and her desire to continue growing as an actress are clear. For now, it seems like the fans can rest easy—Hargitay isn’t going anywhere just yet.
