Mariska Hargitay Opens Up About Childhood Pain and Trauma

Mariska Hargitay Talks Childhood Struggles and Triumphs

Mariska Hargitay, the beloved star of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, has candidly shared her reflections on the pain and trauma from her childhood. In a recent episode of The Drew Barrymore Show, the 60-year-old actress opened up about her life experiences, including the tragic car accident that claimed the life of her mother, Hollywood icon Jayne Mansfield.

Reflecting on her milestone birthday, Hargitay stated, “This is my badass era. I turned 60. 60 is the new 50, and I believe that as we age, we step into our power.” She emphasized how the challenges of her youth shaped her resilience, noting, “Both of us had these very specific childhoods with pain and trauma that gets in our bodies. I spent much of my young life running from it.”

Delving into her journey of healing, Hargitay explained that confronting her past was vital. “The only way out is through,” she stated, recalling her struggles. “You think you’re facing a bottomless well of pain, but then you emerge from it… it’s like ‘pwew’,” she exclaimed, symbolizing her release from that burden.

Mariska’s life took a tragic turn at the tender age of three after the car accident in 1967, which left her with a scar on her head. Her mother, Jayne, lost her life at just 34, while her two older brothers survived. Despite the heartache, Hargitay found solace in her enduring familial bonds, as well as the warmth of her parents and stepfamily.

In a previous interview with Redbook, she reflected on her gratitude for life’s blessings despite past tragedies. “You learn to feel grateful when exposed at such a young age to the reality that bad things can happen. I see all the opportunities life has given me, and I feel incredibly fortunate.”

Hargitay’s marriage to fellow actor Peter Hermann in 2004 marked a turning point in her life. They met when he guest-starred on Law & Order: SVU, and together they have three children: August, Amaya, and Andrew. Becoming a mother has played a crucial role in her healing process. She noted, “Becoming a parent erased many of my negative childhood feelings and filled them in with something new.”

Today, Mariska Hargitay carries a sense of clarity and appreciation for the life she has built, showing how facing her past has paved the way for a future filled with hope and love.