Mariska Hargitay Prefers to Exit ‘Law & Order’ on Her Terms

Mariska Hargitay Seeks to Depart Law & Order on Her Own Terms

In a candid revelation, Mariska Hargitay, beloved star of Law & Order: SVU, appears to be contemplating her exit from the series that has become synonymous with her career. With 26 seasons under her belt, the actress, now 60, has reportedly expressed to close friends her desire to leave the iconic role of Captain Olivia Benson on her own terms, rather than being forced out due to network decisions or strained circumstances.

Sources close to Hargitay reveal that the celebrated actress has dedicated a significant portion of her life to portraying the character, even turning down various other opportunities to remain with SVU. Her friends indicate that Mariska is keen to avoid an unwelcome departure, especially if that means being impacted by any financial cuts or the potential cancellation of the show.

Amidst the backdrop of actors’ and writers’ strikes last year, Hargitay found herself cautious, knowing that her impressive $500,000-an-episode salary had placed her under scrutiny. NBC had been making significant job cuts following massive financial losses, but Mariska remained secure, as executives acknowledged that an SVU without her would be a tough sell.

However, lingering uncertainty looms. While her representatives have assured fans that she isn’t planning to leave the show imminently, sources indicate that conversations regarding a five-year storyline for her character have taken place. Still, Hargitay reportedly wishes to spend more quality time with her husband, Peter Hermann, who has a recurring role on the series, and their three teenage children. Additionally, she seeks to dedicate more time to her Joyful Heart Foundation, which supports victims of domestic abuse.

While Mariska has yet to finalize her decision, insiders say she is approaching the current episodes of SVU as if they could very well be her last. This approach has left the cast and crew on edge, as many worry about the repercussions should the network decide to move forward without its leading lady. As her tenure hangs in the balance, fans are left to wonder what the future holds for both Hargitay and the beloved show.