The 14-year-old plays Olivia Benson’s adopted son, Noah.
It’s been less than a week since an iconic Olivia Benson costume was enshrined in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History — and nobody’s more proud of Mariska Hargitay than her TV son!
On September 15, 14-year-old Ryan Buggle — who plays Noah Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit — took to Hargitay’s Instagram comments to pay tribute to his TV mom on her amazing real-life accomplishment:
“You are the greatest national treasure! So amazing!” Buggle wrote.
Well, if that isn’t the sweetest thing ever!
Buggle has been part of many iconic SVU moments — like this unforgettable scene where he meets Chris Meloni’s Elliot Stabler for the first time. (Of course, little Noah had already heard all about his mom’s ex-partner.)
One of Benson’s costumes being given to the Smithsonian is a triumphant moment for Hargitay and everything the star stands for — something that isn’t lost on Buggle, who clearly admires his TV mom on and off-screen.
Here is Hargitay’s caption in its entirety:
“As Olivia Benson’s costume takes its place in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, what is being enshrined most of all is the act of listening. We must pay deep and purposeful attention to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse. Who better to teach us how to build a more just and compassionate future than those who have been harmed?
I’ve been so honored to play Olivia and to build the @thejhf . I’m so proud to say to survivors everywhere, on behalf of #SVU, Joyful Heart, and a society as a whole that wants to do better:
We are listening. You and your stories matter in the full story of this country. We hear you. We believe you. And your healing is our priority.”
With Season 26 of *SVU* just weeks away, fans are buzzing for more Benson and Stabler screen time, especially after their recent interactions have only been over the phone. Mariska Hargitay, who plays Benson, is just as eager for the reunion. In a May 2024 interview with *Variety*, she shared her determination to make it happen.
“I just told [Chris Meloni] the other day,” Hargitay said. “We had a party recently and saw each other—it was heavenly. I met his *Organized Crime* showrunner, and they want us together. Chris and I were talking, and it’s time. We’ve spent too long apart. That’s why we did the phone calls, but we’re excited to get back in there, back in the ring.”
Fans can look forward to the possibility of their long-awaited on-screen reunion this season!
