Mariska Hargitay pauses ‘Law & Order: SVU’ shoot to help lost child

Mariska Hargitay, known for her role as a police officer on television for the past 25 years, recently found herself in a real-life situation where she had to act as one when a lost child approached her, mistaking her for a real officer.

The actress, who is also a mother of three, took a break from filming for about 20 minutes to assist the child in finding their mother.

According to a witness interviewed by People magazine, the incident occurred at Anne Loftus Playground in Fort Tryon Park on April 10. The young girl had become separated from her mother and sought help from Hargitay.

Despite being surrounded by her scene partner Ice-T and the film crew, the child seemed oblivious and approached Hargitay for assistance.

Hargitay has portrayed the character Olivia Benson on Law and Order: SVU since the show’s premiere in 1999, and it’s currently in its 25th season.

This real-life incident demonstrates how Hargitay’s portrayal of a police officer on TV has translated into her ability to help others in need.

Mariska Hargitay’s life is a captivating tale that intertwines the glitz and glamour of Hollywood with personal triumphs and challenges. Born on January 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, she was the daughter of bodybuilder and actor Mickey Hargitay and Hollywood bombshell Jayne Mansfield.

Despite her upbringing in the spotlight, Hargitay faced her share of struggles. In 1967, tragedy struck when her mother Jayne Mansfield passed away in a car accident, leaving a profound impact on young Mariska. Yet, she found solace in her family and pursued her education with determination.

Hargitay’s journey to stardom began with a passion for acting. She honed her skills at UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television, where she immersed herself in the craft. Her early acting endeavors included roles in various television shows and films, steadily building her reputation as a versatile performer.

However, it was her iconic role as Detective Olivia Benson in the long-running television series “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” that catapulted Hargitay to worldwide fame. Portraying a compassionate and tenacious advocate for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, she garnered critical acclaim and won numerous awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe.

Off-screen, Hargitay’s life mirrored her character’s dedication to helping others. In 2004, she founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, a non-profit organization aimed at supporting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. Through her philanthropic efforts, she has become a leading voice in raising awareness about these issues and advocating for social change.

Despite her busy schedule, Hargitay prioritizes her role as a mother to three children, balancing her career with family life. Her marriage to actor Peter Hermann is a testament to their enduring love and partnership.

Throughout her life, Mariska Hargitay has embodied resilience, compassion, and strength. From overcoming personal tragedies to making a profound impact on society, she continues to inspire audiences around the world with her talent and humanity. Her story is not just one of fame and success but also of resilience, compassion, and the power of using one’s platform for positive change.