Call Her Daddy Podcast Summary Episode: Mariska Hargitay: Love, Loss and Law & Order
Release Date: June 25, 2025
Hosted By: Alex Cooper

Introduction to Mariska Hargitay

In this heartfelt episode, Alex Cooper welcomes Mariska Hargitay, renowned for her role as Olivia Benson on "Law & Order: SVU." The conversation delves deep into Mariska's personal journey, her recent documentary, and her advocacy work.

Personal Life and Early Loss

Mariska Hargitay opens up about the profound impact of losing her mother at the tender age of three. She reflects on her fragmented memories and the lifelong quest to reconnect emotionally with her late mother.

Mariska Hargitay (04:54): "Losing my mother felt like having a hole in my heart. That's what it felt like to me."

She discusses the emotional void and the challenges of reconstructing a sense of connection with a parent she scarcely remembers.

Discovering Her Biological Father

A pivotal moment in Mariska's life was discovering that her father was not her biological parent. She narrates the shocking revelation and its aftermath, highlighting the emotional turmoil and her resilience in facing this truth.

Mariska Hargitay (25:07): "I wasn't worth it. I was nothing to him. He knew. He had to know that I was his daughter. And I wasn't worth it."

Mariska shares how this discovery shattered her identity but also strengthened her relationship with her adoptive father, emphasizing the unconditional love and support he provided.

Career Journey and "Law & Order: SVU"

Mariska recounts her journey into acting, initially aspiring to be a translator or a diplomat before discovering her passion for the performing arts. She describes her audition process for "SVU" with a blend of humor and humility.

Mariska Hargitay (41:00): "I read the script, and I said, 'This is my part.' He was like, 'Oh, was it?' And I said, 'Yeah, so tell her to go home.'" (41:00)

Her portrayal of Olivia Benson not only defined her career but also allowed her to connect deeply with fans and survivors, further fueling her advocacy efforts.

Experiences on Set and Friendships

The bond Mariska shares with her co-star Chris Maloney is evident as she speaks about their long-standing friendship and professional camaraderie. She highlights the supportive and collaborative environment on the set of SVU.

Mariska Hargitay (75:11): "We are so connected. We are so close. It's like we've been through the battle together." (75:11)

She also shares amusing anecdotes about on-set moments, including mistaken identities and quirky habits, showcasing her lighthearted side.

Advocacy and Healing from Trauma

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Mariska's personal trauma as a survivor of sexual assault in her 30s. She discusses her decision to speak out publicly, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and dismantling the stigma surrounding survivors.

Mariska Hargitay (67:17): "Take the shame off of survivors and put it on who it belongs to, which is the abusers." (67:17)

Mariska elaborates on her foundation for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, advocating for a culture where survivors feel empowered to share their stories without judgment.

Personal Anecdotes and Rapid Fire

In the lighter segment, Mariska engages in a rapid-fire session, sharing her favorite guest stars, craziest fan interactions, and quirky personal stories, including her experiences with music videos and pet ownership.

Mariska Hargitay (44:11): "I named my cat Karma because Karma is a cat, and she and Karma vibe like that." (44:11)

She humorously recounts her mishaps during a music video shoot and her spontaneous decision to adopt a cat to appease her children, highlighting her playful nature.

Reflection on Success and Personal Growth

Mariska reflects on her definition of success, emphasizing peace, balance, and meaningful relationships over traditional markers of achievement. She speaks about overcoming anxiety and finding stability through her family and personal growth.

Mariska Hargitay (85:05): "Peace, space, balance. I feel so peaceful and present in a new way." (85:05)

Her journey underscores the importance of self-acceptance and the continuous process of healing and self-discovery.

Closing Thoughts

The episode concludes with Mariska expressing gratitude for her role on SVU and the opportunity to connect with and support others through her experiences. She encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability, foster connections, and support one another in their healing journeys.

Mariska Hargitay (88:25): "You already have everything you need. You already have it inside." (88:25)

Alex Cooper wraps up the conversation by acknowledging Mariska's inspiring presence and the profound impact of her advocacy work.

Notable Quotes

• Mariska Hargitay (05:28): "Being vulnerable and putting yourself out there, that's the most badass thing you can do."
• Mariska Hargitay (07:04): "I have had to process It. And again, I was so happy to, because it just came up and there was no shame."
• Mariska Hargitay (67:17): "Take the shame off of survivors and put it on who it belongs to, which is the abusers."
• Mariska Hargitay (85:05): "Peace, space, balance. I feel so peaceful and present in a new way."

Conclusion

This episode of Call Her Daddy offers an intimate glimpse into Mariska Hargitay's life, blending her professional triumphs with her personal battles. Her candid discussions on loss, identity, trauma, and advocacy provide valuable insights and inspiration for listeners navigating their own challenges.