Mariska Hargitay, best known for her longstanding role as Detective Olivia Benson in “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (SVU), has recently shared her reflections on her illustrious career in an intriguing interview with Variety, published in August 2026. With an impressive run of 28 seasons on the popular NBC procedural, Hargitay opened up about the changes she faced following the departure of her co-star Christopher Meloni in 2011, as well as her future aspirations within the industry.
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Hargitay’s journey on SVU began nearly three decades ago, and she acknowledged the profound impact of Meloni’s exit from the series. Meloni, who portrayed Detective Elliot Stabler for 12 seasons, represented not only a pairing of two beloved characters but also a personal connection that Hargitay cherished. Reflecting on their dynamic, Meloni remarked that he felt an immediate bond with Hargitay, with humour playing a crucial role in their rapport.
In the wake of Meloni’s departure, Hargitay found herself in a position of increased responsibility. “It was one of those moments of stepping up,” she commented, noting that the uncertainty surrounding her capacity to lead the show loomed large. Hargitay was faced with the challenge of proving her ability to hold the series together, a transition that was both daunting and empowering. “Nobody knew if I could carry it on my own,” she added, highlighting the gravity of the situation at that time.
The emotional toll of Meloni’s exit was not lost on Hargitay, who expressed her disappointment and frustration over the circumstances surrounding his departure. “I did not want him to leave,” she confessed, recalling her efforts to mediate the situation that ultimately led to Meloni’s exit from the show, which did not conclude on the best of terms.
Interestingly, Hargitay also considered stepping away from SVU herself a few years back, fearing that she might become a “one-trick pony.” Following a conversation with Julianna Margulies, a former star of “ER,” who advised her that the opportunity had passed, Hargitay reassessed her position. “I wasn’t ready to leave because I loved it,” she asserted, indicating her passion for the role and the series as a whole.
Now, as SVU continues to thrive with Hargitay at the helm, she has embraced new opportunities within the industry. Currently, she is gearing up to host the upcoming Emmy Awards, a role she initially approached with trepidation. “This is ridiculously thankless,” she mused about the position, acknowledging the challenges that come with it. However, her love for television and its ability to heal ultimately swayed her decision to accept the task.
Hargitay highlighted the significant role that SVU has played in societal discussions surrounding sensitive topics like sexual assault. She passionately believes that the show has not only opened up conversations but has also fostered a cultural shift regarding discourse on these issues. “Our show changed the culture,” she asserted, illustrating her pride in the series’ impact on community healing and awareness.
In addition to her hosting duties, Hargitay has garnered two Emmy nominations for her 2025 documentary “My Mom Jayne,” evidencing her versatility and dedication to her craft. She continues to navigate her career with enthusiasm, driven by a desire to inspire and uplift others through her work.
As Hargitay looks to the future, her commitment to “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” remains steadfast, with aspirations to ultimately reach the 30-season milestone. “Do I want to quit? No,” she concluded, affirming her love for the series and the stories it tells. With renewed energy and determination, Hargitay is ready to continue making her mark in the world of television while celebrating the profound connections it creates among viewers.
The 78th Emmy Awards are set to air live on Monday, September 14, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, promising a luminous night for both Hargitay and the television community at large.