Actress Mariska Hargitay, renowned for her portrayal of Captain Olivia Benson on the long-running show Law & Order: SVU, recently reflected on her 25-year journey with the iconic character. In a candid discussion with Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie on the Today show’s October 1st episode, Hargitay shared her thoughts on turning 60 and how it signifies a new chapter in her life, both personally and professionally.
She expressed that reaching this milestone age feels like a fresh beginning, marked by a sense of empowerment, confidence, and clarity. Drawing parallels between her own personal growth and that of her character, Hargitay highlighted the evolution of Olivia Benson from a young detective under the guidance of a senior male colleague to becoming a strong, independent leader in her own right. She described it as a powerful feminist narrative where the character has truly found her identity and stepped into her own strength, likening her to a lioness in her power and leadership.
In response to a video clip from the interview shared on Instagram, fans expressed their admiration for Hargitay’s positive impact. One person thanked her for being a role model who demonstrates the strength and power of women, while another praised her for her ability to evolve and inspire. In addition to her influential presence, some social media users marveled at Hargitay’s youthful appearance, with one fan complimenting her beauty at 60 and another expressing disbelief at her age.