Mariska Hargitay, best known for her iconic role as Captain Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU), remains one of television’s most enduring and beloved stars. As of 2026, the actress who has portrayed the dedicated detective for over 25 seasons continues to captivate audiences with her timeless beauty, graceful presence, and unwavering commitment to powerful storytelling.
At 62 years old (born January 23, 1964), Mariska Hargitay looks stunning and more radiant than ever. Recent appearances, including her standout moments on red carpets in 2025, showcase a woman who ages with effortless elegance, confidence, and poise. Fans frequently comment that her “face card never declines,” with comparisons between photos from the 1990s and today highlighting her consistently striking features.
Early Life and Path to Stardom
Mariska Magdolna Hargitay was born in Santa Monica, California, to Hollywood royalty: her mother was the legendary 1950s sex symbol and actress Jayne Mansfield, and her father was Hungarian-American bodybuilder and actor Mickey Hargitay. Tragedy struck early when Jayne Mansfield died in a car accident in 1967, when Mariska was just three years old. Raised primarily by her father and stepmother Ellen Siano, Mariska grew up navigating the complexities of fame, loss, and identity.
She initially pursued acting after studying theater at UCLA, appearing in films like Ghoulies (1985) and guest roles on shows such as Baywatch and Seinfeld. However, it was her audition for Law & Order: SVU in 1999 that changed everything. Creators Dick Wolf and René Balcer saw in her the perfect blend of strength, vulnerability, and intelligence needed for Detective Olivia Benson—a character who would become a cultural touchstone for survivors of sexual assault and a symbol of resilience.
The Enduring Legacy of Olivia Benson
For more than a quarter-century, Mariska Hargitay has breathed life into Olivia Benson, evolving the character from a young detective to a captain leading the Special Victims Unit. The role has earned her numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006, Golden Globe nominations, and consistent praise for her authentic portrayals of trauma, justice, and empathy.
Beyond acting, Hargitay’s work on SVU inspired her to found the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004. The nonprofit supports survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, advocating for policy changes, healing programs, and ending the backlog in rape kit testing. Her activism has amplified the show’s impact, turning fiction into real-world change and earning her widespread respect as both an entertainer and advocate.
Mariska Hargitay’s Current Look in 2026: Timeless Beauty at 62
Today, Mariska Hargitay defies conventional expectations of aging in Hollywood. Her signature dark hair—often styled in soft waves or sleek updos—frames a face that radiates warmth and strength. Her expressive brown eyes, high cheekbones, and radiant skin remain defining features, enhanced by what appears to be a natural, low-maintenance approach to beauty.
In 2025, she turned heads at major events:
- At the 2025 Primetime Emmy Awards (September 2025), she stunned in a figure-hugging red velvet gown by Elie Saab, with a dramatic silhouette that highlighted her poised posture and glowing complexion. Fans described her as “simply stunning” and “timeless.”
- During New York Fashion Week earlier that year, she embraced bold fashion with a daring thigh-high slit ensemble, proving her confidence extends to edgy style choices.
- She made a rare family red carpet appearance at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival alongside husband Peter Hermann and their three children—August Miklos (born 2006), adopted daughter Amaya Josephine (born 2011), and adopted son Andrew Nicolas (born 2011). The family moment showcased her as a devoted mother, with her elegant yet approachable look drawing widespread admiration.
Social media comparisons from 1997 to 2025 often go viral, with users noting how her features have softened gracefully over time while retaining the same captivating intensity that made her a star. Hargitay has spoken openly about embracing her age, once declaring “60 is the new hot!”—a sentiment that resonates as she enters her 62nd year looking vibrant and powerful.
Her beauty routine emphasizes self-care, wellness, and authenticity rather than drastic interventions. She credits exercise (including yoga and strength training), a balanced diet, and mental health practices for her glow. In interviews, she emphasizes inner confidence as the true source of beauty, a philosophy that shines through in every public appearance.
Personal Life: Family, Marriage, and Philanthropy
Mariska Hargitay has been married to actor Peter Hermann since 2004. Their relationship is often cited as one of Hollywood’s strongest, built on mutual respect, shared values, and humor. The couple shares three children: biological son August and adopted children Amaya and Andrew. Hargitay has been candid about the joys and challenges of motherhood, adoption, and blending family life with a demanding career.
In recent years, she has explored her own family history more deeply. In 2025, she released the HBO documentary My Mom Jayne, confronting long-held secrets about her mother’s life and her own origins—including revelations about her biological father. This project marked a personal milestone, allowing her to heal and honor her complicated legacy.
Why Mariska Hargitay Still Captivates Audiences
What makes Mariska Hargitay “look” so remarkable now isn’t just physical appearance—it’s the depth of character, empathy, and purpose she exudes. At 62, she continues filming SVU (now in its historic run), advocating through Joyful Heart, and inspiring millions. Her journey from child of tragedy to empowered icon proves that true beauty evolves with wisdom, strength, and kindness.
In an industry obsessed with youth, Mariska Hargitay stands as proof that grace, talent, and authenticity only improve with time. Whether on the red carpet, in front of the camera, or championing causes close to her heart, she remains a beacon of resilience and elegance.
Mariska Hargitay today is not just the actress who plays Olivia Benson—she is a living testament to enduring strength, timeless allure, and the power of living authentically.
