# Mariska Hargitay

> American actress, producer, and philanthropist (born 1964)

**Wikidata**: [Q275964](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q275964)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mariska_Hargitay)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/mariska-hargitay

## Summary
Mariska Hargitay is an American actress, producer, and philanthropist born in 1964. She is best known for her role as Detective Olivia Benson in the television series *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit*, for which she won a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award. Hargitay has also made significant contributions to film and television production, and her philanthropic efforts focus on supporting education and children's causes.

## Biography
- Born: January 23, 1964
- Nationality: United States
- Education: UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television; The Groundlings
- Known for: Portraying Detective Olivia Benson in *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit*
- Employer(s): UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television; The Groundlings
- Field(s): Acting, film production, philanthropy

## Contributions
Mariska Hargitay has contributed to the entertainment industry through her acting roles and production work. She won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Drama and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit*. Additionally, she has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing her significant contributions to the film industry.

## FAQs
**What is Mariska Hargitay known for?**
Mariska Hargitay is known for her role as Detective Olivia Benson in the television series *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit*, for which she won a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award. She has also made contributions to film and television production and is recognized for her philanthropic efforts.

**Where did Mariska Hargitay study?**
Mariska Hargitay studied at the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television and The Groundlings.

**What awards has Mariska Hargitay won?**
Mariska Hargitay has won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Drama and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit*. She also has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

## Why They Matter
Mariska Hargitay has significantly impacted the entertainment industry through her acting and production work. Her role as Detective Olivia Benson in *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit* has made her a household name and has influenced the portrayal of female detectives in television. Her awards and recognition have paved the way for other actresses in similar roles. Additionally, her philanthropic efforts have made a positive impact on education and children's causes, further solidifying her legacy as a multifaceted professional.

## Notable For
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Drama (2011)
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (2011)
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2011)
- Role as Detective Olivia Benson in *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit*
- Contributions to film and television production
- Philanthropic efforts supporting education and children's causes

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Mariska Hargitay was born on January 23, 1964. She attended the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television, where she honed her acting skills. She also trained at The Groundlings, a renowned improv and theater group, which further developed her comedic and dramatic abilities.

### Career in Acting and Production
Mariska Hargitay began her career in television and film, appearing in various roles before gaining widespread recognition for her portrayal of Detective Olivia Benson in *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit*. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award. She has also made contributions to film production and has been recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

### Philanthropy and Advocacy
In addition to her acting career, Mariska Hargitay is known for her philanthropic efforts. She supports various causes, including education and children's issues, and has been involved in numerous charitable initiatives. Her dedication to giving back to the community has further cemented her status as a respected and influential figure.

### Influence and Legacy
Mariska Hargitay's work in *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit* has had a lasting impact on the television industry, particularly in the portrayal of female detectives. Her awards and recognition have inspired other actresses to pursue similar roles and have contributed to the evolution of television drama. Her multifaceted career and philanthropic efforts have made her a well-rounded and admired professional.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. [Source](http://www.joyfulheartfoundation.org/about-us/our-story)
3. International Standard Name Identifier
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. MusicBrainz
6. GeneaStar
7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
8. [Source](https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/story/mariska-hargitay-was-living-a-lie-for-30-years)
9. [Source](http://www.campaignmoney.com/political/contributions/mariska-hargitay.asp?cycle=12)
10. Library of Congress Authorities
11. Carnegie Hall linked open data
12. The Movie Database