Mariska Hargitay, star of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, is celebrating a birthday! She’s ringing in her 60th birthday and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate. She’s the essence of beauty and smarts, playing the dedicated and passionate Captain Olivia Benson.
While you know her for her work on TV, Mariska Hargitay is endlessly interesting in real life. Let’s dive in to a few fun facts you didn’t know about this icon!
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1. Mariska is an incredible linguist!
She doesn’t only speak one language. In fact, she’s fluent in five languages: English, French, Spanish, Hungarian, and Italian. How impressive is that?
2. She’s made some epic cameos in music videos.
Mariska Hargitay’s character in Law & Order: SVU is well-beloved. In fact, Taylor Swift named her cat after Olivia Benson! But did you know Mariska has been in a T-Swift music video? She was a part of Taylor’s “Bad Blood” squad! She’s also shown up in a Lady Gaga video! What a cool woman.
3. Mariska Hargitay is making an impact.
Her role in Law & Order inspired her to take action in the world. Now, she’s a prominent advocate for sexual assault victims, raising awareness and pouring energy into charitable causes. She’s also a big animal lover.
4. Her cat’s name is Karma.
Back to the Taylor Swift friendship… since T-Swift’s cat is named Olivia Benson, it made sense that Mariska’s cat would be in honor of Taylor!
5. Mariska has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!
Her role is deserving of significant accolades. Mariska’s been working on Law & Order since 1999. Of course she’s got a star!