Mariska Hargitay, renowned for her portrayal of Olivia Benson in “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” cherishes her most cherished role as a mother. She is dedicated to safeguarding her children’s privacy, striving to keep them away from the public eye. Nevertheless, in October 2023, Hargitay made a special appearance on the red carpet alongside her daughter, Amaya Hermann, who is now growing up and stepping into the limelight.
Alongside Amaya, Mariska Hargitay and her husband, Mark Hermann, are proud parents to two sons, August and Andrew Hermann. Despite the demands of being a working mother of three, Hargitay embraces the challenge, describing their family as “perfect, or at least perfect for me.” She paints a vivid picture of their unit as a joyful, chaotic, and blissfully harmonious whole.
Having experienced the challenges of growing up in the shadow of famous parents—Jayne Mansfield, a ’50s sex symbol, and Mickey Hargitay, Mr. Universe 1955—Hargitay is determined to spare her own children from similar pressures. She vividly recalls her own struggles to be recognized for herself rather than simply as her mother’s daughter.
Amaya’s notable appearance on the red carpet in 2023 affirms that she is confidently carving out her own identity. This rare public outing demonstrated the close bond between mother and daughter as they struck poses and mingled with A-list celebrities, including Beyoncé.
Amaya Hermann is one of the two children adopted by Mariska Hargitay and Peter Hermann. Their family expanded with the birth of August in 2006. The desire for a larger family stemmed from their shared background of growing up in large families, as well as their abundant love to give. Amaya was welcomed into their family in April 2011, followed by the addition of Andrew six months later.
Hargitay’s own experiences, particularly the loss of her mother at a young age, profoundly influenced her decision to adopt. She understands that families can be formed in diverse ways, not limited solely to biology. Reflecting on her travels to Thailand and India as a young child, she recalls being struck by the resilience and wisdom of orphaned children, nurturing an early maternal instinct.
While Mariska’s mother, Jayne Mansfield, is no longer with them, Hargitay ensures her memory lives on. On Mansfield’s 90th birthday in April 2023, Hargitay took to Instagram to pay tribute, underscoring the enduring love they hold for her.