Star of “Law & Order: SVU” Mariska Hargitay talks her lifelong character, taking creative chances in recent episodes, and opens up about the passing of co-star Richard Belzer. She also comments on Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler’s relationship, stating that they “truly” love one another.
On Today this morning, Mariska Hargitay, who has been portraying Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU for 23 years and counting and is the longest-running TV character ever, had a detailed conversation about a variety of topics. (You can see the entire interview below.)
Naturally, the talk with Savannah Guthrie included the co-star Richard Belzer’s recent death, which occurred a few days ago. Hargitay praised her longstanding associate as a “beautiful and complex” individual.
She said, “What a heart and soul.” He brought so much excitement to the set, was like family to me, and taught me so much about taking chances, being creative, and having faith. “This acerbic, quick-witted, smart intellect and yet he would melt in the sight of a child,” said Belzer, who had a history in stand-up comedy.
Executive producer of SVU Hargitay also talked about working in front of the camera. She directed Thursday night’s programme, which was her first time doing so in three years, and a snippet from it was shown. About the episode, which features guest star Bradley Whitford, she remarked, “It’s a little bit of a break from what we usually do.” There are many unexpected things. She continued, feeling “such profound honour that they trusted me with this material.”
Ice-T and Belzer are two actors that have appeared on cinema together frequently. As she recently announced during the ceremony to formally dedicate his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, she has succeeded in becoming the sole person authorised to use the moniker “Icy.” Hargitay also has a moniker that belongs to the actor and rapper, which she declined to share. She exclaimed, laughing, “My friendship with him is very warm!”
This is the complete interview:
Mariska Hargitay in the house! The @lawandordertv star is sharing all the juicy details of the new season and what it’s like playing the longest-running character in TV history. pic.twitter.com/8f5iqHW7xr
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) February 23, 2023