Mariska Hargitay: Two New Emmy Awards

Dedicated to her mother, Hollywood icon Jayne Mansfield, My Mom Jayne is a deeply personal project. Mariska Hargitay began filming the documentary in 2023, alongside her work on the production of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Through family archives, photographs and personal footage, she revisits her mother’s life, her legacy and the influence of this legendary Hollywood figure on her own story.

This double win marks a new chapter in Mariska Hargitay’s career, which had already earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006 for her portrayal of Olivia Benson.

An iconic figure in American television

Since 1999, Mariska Hargitay has portrayed Captain Olivia Benson in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, one of the most iconic characters in American television.

Over the course of nearly three decades, the role has established her as one of the leading figures in international television. Her career, however, extends well beyond acting: as an actress, director and producer, she has continually sought to explore new creative territories.

In 2026, she made her Broadway debut in the one-woman show Every Brilliant Thing, and on 14 September she will present the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards live from Los Angeles.

A special connection with the Monte-Carlo Television Festival

Mariska Hargitay also has a special connection with the Monte-Carlo Television Festival. She attended the Festival in 2003 and 2005, notably alongside producer Dick Wolf, creator of the Law & Order franchise.

In June 2018, during the 58th edition of the Festival, Mariska Hargitay received the prestigious Crystal Nymph, in recognition of her outstanding career and her remarkable contribution to the world of television.

The award recognised an already iconic career, driven by a character who had become one of the most popular figures in contemporary television.

The Monte-Carlo Television Festival is particularly proud to have played a part in celebrating her career and to have followed, over many years, the journey of an artist whose talent and creativity extend far beyond the boundaries of television.