Mariska Hargitay Reflects on “Law & Order: SVU” and Future Plans
Mariska Hargitay has shared that she once contemplated leaving her iconic role as Olivia Benson on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” after more than two decades. Her concern centered around the fear that this character was defining her career too narrowly.
In a recent interview with Variety, the actress, who has played Benson since the show began in 1999, noted that doubts about her future on the long-running NBC series crept in around its 25th season. “I thought, maybe I need to move on. I don’t want people thinking I’m just a one-trick pony,” she recalled discussing with her former “ER” co-star Julianna Margulies.
Margulies, who left “ER” after six seasons, had a straightforward reply: “Sweetheart, that ship’s sailed,” Hargitay recalled.
Even though the character has made her a household name, Hargitay admitted she sometimes felt creatively limited because of the demanding production schedule. “I struggled with wanting to branch out. People would suggest I leave the show for comedy or a talk show,” she said, reflecting on the pressure to explore other avenues.
Yet, expressing her deep love for the role, she shared that she wasn’t quite ready to leave. “I got to do all this other stuff, which is why I’m not thinking about quitting now. I made a movie while filming; I tackled a play during hiatus. And, oh, I’m hosting the Emmys!”
Openly praising franchise creator Dick Wolf, Hargitay mentioned to Fox News Digital that his writing is truly exceptional. “Dick Wolf is a visionary,” she stated. “It’s fascinating how a crime show can provide a sense of comfort when we know there’s someone out there handling these issues.”
She further elaborated on the interesting paradox of a crime series being both unsettling and comforting at the same time. “You’d think a crime show would agitate you, but it can actually calm you down,” Hargitay noted.
The success of “Law & Order” has led to the creation of numerous spinoffs, including “Special Victims Unit,” “Criminal Intent,” and others.
Since its premiere, “SVU” has become the longest-running live-action TV series, and Hargitay, who became an executive producer in 2016, continues to play Detective Olivia Benson, showcasing her commitment to the role and the show.
