Did you know that Mariska Hargitay is one of the highest-paid actresses on TV? As Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, she’s been the face of justice for over two decades – earning millions along the way.
But her story isn’t just about fame and fortune. It’s also about family legacy and carving out your own path to greatness.
So, what’s her net worth? It’s currently estimated at around $100 million (yes, you read that right!), and today we dive into her incredible life story that led to such a ludicrous net worth.
Mariska Hargitay: Quick Overview
Mariska Hargitay is an award-winning actress with a career and life that are nothing short of fascinating. Let’s look at some fast facts about her first.
| Full Name | Mariska Magdolna Hargitay |
| Date of Birth | January 23, 1964 |
| Age | 60 years old (as of 2024) |
| Zodiac | Aquarius |
| Place of Birth | Santa Monica, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actress, Director, Producer |
| Spouse | Peter Hermann (m. 2004) |
| Children | 3 (August, Amaya, Andrew) |
Mariska Hargitay Net Worth
Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU
Image source: Google
Mariska Hargitay isn’t just talented, she’s loaded too. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated at a jaw-dropping $100 million. Most of this fortune comes from her two-decade reign as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU.
Fun fact: She’s one of the highest-paid actresses on TV, raking in about $540,000 per episode. Imagine earning half a million for a week’s work – talk about living the dream.
But it’s not just her acting that’s bringing in the big bucks. Mariska has ventured into producing and directing episodes of SVU, which adds a little extra padding to her bank account.
Plus, she’s got a solid eye for real estate. She owns luxurious properties in places like the Hamptons and Manhattan.
Let’s not forget her endorsements and philanthropic work. While she’s not chasing endorsement deals like some celebs, her influence in Hollywood and her foundation, the Joyful Heart Foundation, have cemented her legacy – and likely come with perks.
Bottom line? Mariska is making bank, sure, but she’s also making a difference.
Mariska Hargitay: Early Life
Mariska Hargitay’s mother Mickey Hargitay and father Jayne Mansfield
Image source: Google
Mariska Hargitay was practically born to be a star. Her mom was none other than the iconic 1950s bombshell Jayne Mansfield, and her dad, Mickey Hargitay, was a former Mr. Universe.
Talk about winning the genetic lottery!
Mariska was born on January 23, 1964, in sunny Santa Monica, California, as the youngest of three kids.
Her childhood, to many’s surprise, wasn’t all Hollywood glamour, however. When Mariska was just three years old, her mom tragically passed away in a car accident – a traumatic moment that drastically shaped young Mariska.
Baby Mariska Hargitay in mom’s hug
Image source: People
She was then raised in a loving but no-nonsense household under the care of her dad and stepmom.
Mariska would go on to attend UCLA, majoring in theater. However, she didn’t stick around long enough to snag a degree. She was busy chasing her acting dreams.
Mariska Hargitay: Career Highlights
Mariska’s career is the stuff of Hollywood dreams – if those dreams involve decades of hard work and an Emmy or two!
We all know that her breakout moment was when she was cast as the legendary Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU. That was back in 1999. Mariska Hargitay only started acting in her third year of high school, and this can be traced back to her history teacher, Sister Margaret, who said to Hargitay, ‘I think you should try acting in a play.’ Two decades later, she became the face of the show and one of the longest-running TV characters in history!
But what makes her journey truly inspiring is that she didn’t become an overnight sensation.
Mariska had spent years grinding it out with smaller parts in shows like ER, Falcon Crest, and even a cameo in the cult classic Seinfeld. She also appeared in movies like Lake Placid and Leaving Las Vegas.
Mariska Hargitay won Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series during the 58th Emmy Awards in 2006
Image source: Google
Her work on SVU has earned her a Primetime Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a loyal fanbase that spans generations.
In 2013, Mariska Hargitay became a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, next to her mother Jayne Mansfield.
Mariska Hargitay: Family & Kids
Mariska is married to fellow actor Peter Hermann, whom she met on the set of Law & Order: SVU. The couple tied the knot in 2004 and has been going strong ever since.
Together, they have three children: August, their biological son, and two adopted children, Amaya and Andrew. Mariska often gushes about her blended family, calling motherhood her greatest role yet.
Mariska Hargitay and her husband, Peter Hermann, with their children, August(eldest), Amaya(daughter), Andrew
Image source: Google
Final Thoughts
Mariska is a Hollywood icon, no doubt about it. With an impressive $100 million net worth, she’s made her mark not only as Olivia Benson but also as a philanthropist and family woman.
Whether on-screen or off, Mariska’s journey proves that hard work and passion truly pay off!
Featured image source: Google
