Law and Order: SVU: Mariska Hargitay shares her story of who influenced her to act!
Mariska Hargitay, the beloved actress known for her role as Olivia Benson on the hit television series “Law & Order: SVU,” recently opened up about a profound encounter that shaped the course of her life. In an interview, she revealed how a chance meeting with a nun had a lasting impact on her.
In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Hargitay shared that during her college years, she was struggling to find her true calling. Feeling lost and uncertain about her future, she attended a retreat where she met Sister Margaret Mary. This encounter turned out to be transformative.
Mariska Hargitay
Mariska Hargitay who just turned 60 Tuesday, is celebrating 25 years on Law and Order: Special Victims and she is the longest character of any prime-time show. she shares what her teacher Sister Margaret saw in her as far as acting goes.
She stated, “I didn’t start acting until junior year of high school. I wasn’t interested. But in junior year, my history teacher Sister Margaret — who I loved — said, ‘I think you should try out for a play. She always saw me, my soul.”
Marymount High
Mariska attended Marymount High school in Los Angeles. One thing that she got in trouble for was talking too much in class. She tells PEOPLE, “Well, the funny thing was I used to get in trouble for talking.”
“She’s the first person who called me an extrovert. I was also an athlete, so I think she was looking for how to channel that energy.
She knew I had this little engine. And then she told me to try out for the play, and I got the lead and I loved it so much.” Due to Sister Margaret’s encouragement for Mariska who once again got the lead in a play during her senior year. She also speaks about how her teacher was wholesome and filled with God’s love.
“She loved to laugh, and she was such a whole person because she loved God and she was this authority figure, but she was so human and so accessible that made me feel so safe with her.”
The interview finished with this about her teacher, “She wasn’t an intimidating nun that you were scared of. She was part of the squad. She was part of the team. I just always felt that she really saw me and took an interest and understood me. And she was so loving about everything. Inclusive, kind, nurturing.”
Sister Margaret Mary
Sister Margaret Mary saw something in Hargitay that no one else had noticed before – a spark of potential and purpose. She took the time to listen to Hargitay’s fears and doubts, offering guidance and support. The nun’s unwavering belief in Hargitay’s abilities gave her the confidence to pursue acting wholeheartedly.
Reflecting on this experience, Hargitay emphasized how crucial it is for individuals to feel seen and understood. Sister Margaret Mary’s genuine interest in her well-being made all the difference in Hargitay’s life trajectory.
This story resonates deeply because it highlights the power of human connection and mentorship. It reminds us ; all we need is someone who truly sees us – our dreams, our struggles, and our potential – to help us navigate through life.
Her encounter with Sister Margaret Mary serves as an inspiring reminder of how influential individuals can shape our lives for the better. The nun’s ability to recognize Hargitay’s talents and provide unwavering support propelled her towards success in acting.
This story underscores the importance of being seen and understood by others. As it can have a profound impact on one’s self-belief and life choices. We should strive to emulate Sister Margaret Mary by taking the time to truly listen to others, offering guidance and support whenever possible. By doing so, we can help individuals discover their true potential and make a positive difference in their lives.
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