Mariska Hargitay formally stepped into the world of Broadway with her debut in the play *Every Brilliant Thing*, which opened on 26 May. This marks a significant milestone for the renowned actress, best known for her long-running role as Olivia Benson on *Law & Order: SVU*. One week after her first performance, Hargitay celebrated this new chapter in her career at a special event at the Hudson Theatre, where she reflected on the profound message of the play.
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Having taken on a character originally portrayed by Daniel Radcliffe, Hargitay embraced her role and the lessons it imparts. Speaking to *PEOPLE*, she expressed her belief in the importance of recognising the “brilliant” moments in life, even during challenging times. “It’s a lesson that I keep learning, and I think that it’s a lesson that keeps just dropping a little bit deeper,” she remarked, underscoring the themes of empathy and compassion woven throughout the performance. Hargitay stressed that understanding the unseen struggles of others is vital, encouraging unconditional love and acceptance.
At 62 years old, the actress’s passion for storytelling continues to flourish. She shared her insights into the play, stating, “It’s a play about healing, the stories that I love to tell.” This connection to her material is evident, particularly when considering her past experiences. Hargitay recently made her directorial debut with the documentary *My Mom Jayne*, which focused on her mother, Jayne Mansfield, who tragically passed away in 1967. The film delved into the grief and trauma Hargitay has had to navigate since her mother’s untimely death, showcasing the impact of personal loss on her life and art.
Hargitay sees parallels between her play and her documentary, noting that while the narratives differ, the emotional resonance remains similar. “The stories are different, but the feeling is the same,” she explained, drawing a connection that enhances her understanding of both projects. Her artistic evolution demonstrates a commitment to exploring deeper themes of love and loss, allowing her audience to engage with her experiences on multiple levels.
The actress expressed her excitement for sharing *Every Brilliant Thing* with audiences, appreciating the chance for them to engage with what she referred to as “this extraordinary story rendered in all its complexity.” This enthusiasm for the live theatre experience contrasted with her time on television, where she has led *SVU* for nearly three decades. “It’s not about me, it’s about sharing this play,” she emphasized, indicating her desire to offer audiences a thoughtful exploration of life’s challenges and joys.
Broadway presents a unique challenge for Hargitay, one that she admits is vastly different from her experience in television. She acknowledged the demands of performing continuously in front of a live audience, stating, “The idea that the longest take I’ve ever done is a few minutes — five minutes even — that’s a long take, but doing an hour and 21 minutes without a break in front of 1,000 people, it’s like, wow!” This new venture undoubtedly tests her mettle as both an actress and a performer.
Hargitay’s commitment to her craft showcases her versatility within the entertainment industry. As she immerses herself in the world of Broadway, she brings with her a wealth of experience, as well as deep emotional insights drawn from her personal journey. Her role in *Every Brilliant Thing* runs until 5 July, allowing audiences to witness her transition from screen to stage in what promises to be a compelling exploration of resilience and the power of love.
As she examines the intricate nuances of her character and the play’s message, Hargitay remains a testament to the power of storytelling in its various forms. Through her work both on stage and behind the camera, she continues to engage with themes that resonate profoundly with many, encouraging reflection on empathy, healing, and the pursuit of joy amid life’s trials.