Amidst the compelling drama and suspense in every episode of “Law & Order: SVU,” the talented cast members are also navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood behind the scenes. As the iconic NBC series gears up for its unprecedented 27th season, fans are not just engaged with the gripping storylines but also intrigued by the personal lives of their favourite stars.
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Leading the ensemble is Mariska Hargitay, who has been portraying the resilient Olivia Benson since the show’s inception in 1999. Off-screen, Mariska is a devoted mother to three children – August, Amaya, and Andrew, whom she shares with her husband, actor Peter Hermann. The actress welcomed her first son, August, in June 2006, and later adopted daughter Amaya Josephine in April 2011, followed by son Andrew six months later.
Ice-T, known for his portrayal of the no-nonsense Odafin “Fin” Tutuola, leads a busy life as a father of three – daughters LeTesha and Chanel, along with son Tracy. Ice-T’s journey into fatherhood began in 1976 when his daughter LeTesha was born, followed by son Tracy Jr. in 1991 and daughter, Chanel Nicole, in 2015, with wife Coco Austin.
Peter Scanavino, who plays ADA Dominick “Sonny” Carisi Jr., and his wife, artist Lisha Bai, embrace parenthood with their three children. While Scanavino keeps his family out of the limelight, he looks up to his co-star Hargitay as a role model in parenting, appreciating her open-minded and caring approach.
Kevin Kane, who portrays Detective Terry Bruno, cherishes his role as a father to his daughter with wife and actress Francis Benhamou. Kane credits his experience on SVU for helping him navigate the complexities of parenting, showcasing how his on-screen character has influenced his real-life responsibilities.
Kelli Giddish, known for her role as NYPD Detective Amanda Rollins, embodies the multitasking supermom as she raises her three sons – Ludo, Charlie, and Oldie. With two sons from her first marriage to Lawrence Faulborn and her youngest with second husband Beau Richards, Giddish marvels at balancing motherhood and work on the show.
Christopher Meloni, the beloved Elliot Stabler, shares his journey as a father of two with his wife, artist Sherman Williams. Welcoming daughter Sophia in 2001 and son Dante in 2004, Meloni reflects on the insights gained from fatherhood, acknowledging the blend of affection, discipline, and focus needed to raise children.
As the ‘Law & Order: SVU’ cast continues to capture audiences with their stellar performances on screen, their off-screen narratives of parenthood add a layer of authenticity and relatability to their personas. Balancing the demands of a popular TV series with the joys of raising children, these actors exemplify dedication and passion both in their professional and personal lives.