Mon Sep 23 22:48:08 UTC 2024: ## Mariska Hargitay: ‘Law & Order: SVU’ Star Reveals Show’s Impact on Her Life
**New York, NY** – Mariska Hargitay, the star of “Law & Order: SVU,” has revealed the significant impact playing Detective Olivia Benson has had on her life. In an interview with Selena Gomez for Interview magazine, Hargitay shared how the show’s focus on sensitive cases like sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse has deeply affected her, even leading to the creation of her own foundation, Joyful Heart.
Hargitay admitted that the show’s subject matter has been both a source of personal growth and a challenge, as she faced the reality of these crimes head-on. “When I started the show, I wasn’t aware of how deeply it would go into me,” she said. The actress also described experiencing “secondary trauma” from being exposed to such a high volume of disturbing stories.
“During the first year, I learned the statistics of sexual assault,” Hargitay shared, “One in three women will be assaulted, and one in six men. That’s what started the foundation for me.” She explained that the stark statistics made her realize the severity of the issue and fueled her desire to make a difference.
Hargitay’s commitment to raising awareness about these issues led to the creation of Joyful Heart, a foundation dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. “I have to do something,” she said, emphasizing her determination to address the epidemic of violence against women.
Mariska Hargitay’s journey as Olivia Benson has been a transformative one. While the show’s subject matter has been challenging, it has also ignited a passion within her, inspiring her to use her platform to advocate for survivors and work towards a safer future.
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