Mariska Hargitay, the acclaimed actress known for her role as Olivia Benson on the hit TV show Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, recently became the longest running female character in a TV drama. This significant milestone has solidified her place in television history and is a testament to her talent and dedication.

Hargitay has been portraying the character of Olivia Benson for an impressive 21 seasons, surpassing the previous record held by S. Epatha Merkerson, who portrayed Lt. Anita Van Buren on the original Law & Order series. Hargitay’s portrayal of Benson has consistently captivated audiences and resonated with viewers since the show’s inception in 1999.

The success and longevity of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit can be attributed to several key factors, with Hargitay’s portrayal of Benson being one of the most prominent. Her character is a strong and empathetic detective who fights tirelessly for justice, particularly in cases involving sexually-based offenses. Hargitay’s ability to bring depth and vulnerability to this character has endeared her to fans around the world.

In an interview regarding her record-breaking achievement, Hargitay expressed her gratitude and excitement. She acknowledged the significance of this milestone not only for herself but also for the broader representation of women in television dramas. Hargitay spoke about the responsibility she feels towards her character and the impact she has had on viewers, particularly survivors of sexual assault. She described the privilege of being able to portray a character who gives a voice to the voiceless and inspires others to speak up against injustice.

Hargitay’s dedication to social activism in addition to her acting career has further cemented her role as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. She is the founder of the Joyful Heart Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. Through her foundation, Hargitay has not only raised awareness about these issues but has also provided resources and support to those in need.

As Hargitay continues to break barriers in television, she remains humble and grateful for the opportunities she has been given. She attributes her success to the collaborative efforts of the talented cast and crew of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, as well as the unwavering support of the show’s dedicated fans. Hargitay’s portrayal of Olivia Benson has become an iconic character in television history and her record-breaking achievement serves as a reminder of the power of representation and the impact that one person can have in inspiring change.