Mariska Hargitay, renowned for her role in the television series *Law & Order: SVU*, is currently making her Broadway debut in the play *Every Brilliant Thing* at the Hudson Theatre. The production runs until 5th July and has been a source of both excitement and trepidation for the 62-year-old actress.
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Speaking on the podcast *Making Space with Hoda Kotb*, Hargitay opened up about the overwhelming emotions she experienced when stepping onto the stage for the first time. She described the debut as “terrifying… cripplingly so terrifying,” leaving her momentarily taken aback by the challenges of performing live. “I had no idea what was happening,” she admitted, reflecting on the unique experience of being part of such a poignant and humorous play.
When she was offered the role, Hargitay realised it was an opportunity that was impossible to turn down. “It was an immediate yes,” she said, citing the play’s emotional depth and charm as key factors in her decision. However, she quickly discovered that the demands of Broadway were new and daunting, overshadowing her excitement. She highlighted the difficulties of adapting to such a different medium, especially given the high expectations following the previous star of the production, Daniel Radcliffe.
For Hargitay, the lessons she tries to impart to her children played a role in her ability to face these challenges head-on. “We can do hard things,” she recalled, explaining that embracing her fears was imperative. The process has involved confronting her pre-show anxieties; she confessed to having struggled with sleep in the lead-up to previews—at one point even resorting to medication to cope with her nerves.
Despite her initial fears, Hargitay described the previews of *Every Brilliant Thing* as “extraordinary and thrilling.” The actress revealed that the whole experience was new and invigorating for her, allowing her to grow in ways she hadn’t anticipated. To bolster her confidence before each performance, she decorated her dressing room with photographs of athlete heroes, including Billie Jean King and Lindsey Vonn. Hargitay has long held that athletes embody resilience and tenacity—qualities she seeks to channel during her performances.
In her reflections, Hargitay articulated the lessons she has learned from these athletes. She quotes King, who said “one ball at a time,” emphasising the importance of focusing on individual moments, both on the court and on stage. Vonn serves as another inspiration, with Hargitay praising her strength and tenacity in overcoming obstacles.
The actress further contrasted her experience in theatre with her extensive work in television. “The longest take I’ve ever done is a few minutes, five minutes even,” Hargitay noted, highlighting the staggering reality of performing continuously for 81 minutes without a break in front of a live audience of around 1000 people. The intensity of this experience presents a new kind of challenge for Hargitay, who finds it exhilarating.
Moreover, *Every Brilliant Thing* incorporates improv elements that test her adaptability as a performer. She remarked on the unpredictable nature of live theatre, saying that each audience reacts differently, which adds layers of excitement and spontaneity to each performance. “You’re out on the ice every night not knowing how it’s going to go,” Hargitay added, framing the unpredictability as part of the joy of live theatre.
As she continues to perform in *Every Brilliant Thing*, Hargitay’s journey reflects her resilience and commitment to pushing her artistic boundaries. Her Broadway debut not only showcases her talent but also embodies the courage to face fears—including stepping into a new and challenging creative realm.
Fans will have the opportunity to witness this captivating performance at the Hudson Theatre until July 5, where Hargitay brings her unique blend of emotional depth and lively spirit to the stage, ensuring that her debut is both a personal triumph and an inspiring experience for her audience.