Mariska Hargitay is poised to make her Broadway debut in the acclaimed one-woman show, *Every Brilliant Thing*, starting from May 26. The performance marks a significant milestone for Hargitay, coming just a year after the release of her documentary, *My Mom, Jayne*, which delves into the impactful legacy of her mother, Hollywood star Jayne Mansfield.
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Reflecting on this transition, Hargitay described her foray into theatre as a “natural progression.” The actress, best known for her role as Olivia Benson on *Law & Order: SVU*, finds the experience of creating the documentary “cathartic,” asserting that it has transformed her outlook and emotional state. “I think it changed my nervous system,” she remarked, emphasising the profound personal impact it has had on her life.
In *Every Brilliant Thing*, Hargitay tackles themes of grief, suicide, and the search for joy through a series of poignant moments and memories. “It definitely feels like you’re going out without a net, but that’s also the thrill of it,” she told PEOPLE during a recent interview. While she acknowledges the familiar rhythm of her role on television, she is clearly ready to embrace the unpredictability of live performance. “No such chance on Broadway. But that’s the challenge,” she added with enthusiasm.
Taking over the role previously held by Daniel Radcliffe—who is currently up for a Tony Award—Hargitay expressed her immediate connection to the script after receiving the offer. “I was in from minute one,” she stated, highlighting how it resonated deeply with her personal journey. For Hargitay, the play represents not just a performance but a pathway to healing, as it aligns with the stories she loves to tell.
With six days of rehearsals each week, she admits that the physical demands have been challenging in a new way. Despite her extensive experience in front of the camera, she confronts this task with aplomb. Hargitay said, “Everyone kept saying, ‘Wow, you’ve got to get your strength up.’ I was like, ‘Sweetheart, I’ve been on a show for 27 years. I got this.’” Even with her confidence, she concedes that the process is “exhausting,” underscoring the intensity of live theatre.
Directed by Jeremy Herrin, the play contrasts Hargitay’s commanding on-screen persona with a more vulnerable stage presence. Herrin remarked on this juxtaposition, describing it as “a high wire act of theatrical daring.” There are unique challenges that come with the role, offering Hargitay an opportunity to explore unexplored emotional terrain.
Her upcoming performance is infused with personal significance, as it follows the release of her documentary that examines her mother’s legacy, who tragically died in a car accident when Hargitay was just three years old. She explained that sharing her family’s story has brought her a sense of peace, stating, “The only way to heal is to be in a community and in the present and not live in the past.”
Hargitay sees the timing of her Broadway debut as no coincidence, drawing connections between her mother’s career and her own. She noted that her mother began her journey on the Broadway stage at just 22 years old. For Hargitay, stepping onto the same stage for the first time is a profound and celebratory moment. “It’s something to take in and behold,” she reflected.
The support from her family has been unwavering throughout this transition. Her husband, actor Peter Hermann, along with their three children, are enthusiastic about her new venture. “Watching the person I love do something she loves is more beautiful than I can describe,” Hermann expressed. He believes that Hargitay finds fulfillment in her performance, and this joy is shared by their family.
As her Broadway run comes to a close on July 5, Hargitay is set to return to filming the 28th season of *Law & Order: SVU*. Hermann quipped about her brief summer break, suggesting that it might involve a much-needed rest. Nevertheless, the actress remains committed to both her career and her advocacy work through the Joyful Heart Foundation, which has recently celebrated meaningful legislative reform regarding untested rape kits.
In reflecting on her journey through both personal and professional challenges, Hargitay remarked on the wisdom that comes with age. “There’s so much more clarity,” she stated, feeling a sense of focus and fearlessness that continues to energise her.
Tickets for *Every Brilliant Thing* are now available, and with Hargitay at the helm, audiences can expect an inspirational and unforgettable theatrical experience.